What are tourism/visitor experiences?

    With any tourist attraction, the underlying goal is to motivate travelers to come to a community/destination. Most tourist attractions tend to focus on landmarks and historical artifacts. 

    When it comes to Tourism/Visitor Experiences, it’s about focusing on local businesses and the people that make the community/destination unique. By focusing on the development of new visitor (tourist) experiences (not offered previously) featuring a specific guide/facilitator/storyteller, travelers and/or community members will be immersed in a unique event. These experiences allow businesses/organizations/individuals to share their stories through physical products, services and events, making for a memorable experience for those who visit the community/destination.

    A tourism experience will be revenue-generating, add to existing business or program offerings, or will layer in a new experience to allow businesses and organizations to reach new audiences.  Experience creation will be supported by a coach with a focus on regenerative practices through application, templates, costing and pricing, and will focus on each Experience Partner’s organizational or business realities and/or mandates.

    Who is eligible for this program?

    Any Seguin Township business, organization, or individual interested in sharing their unique story through a tourism experience.

    What is the selection criteria?

    Fit, Passion, Eagerness – The drive to share an idea and story as a new tourism attraction; open to exploring new possibilities; positive can-do attitude. 

    Time & Willingness To Commit This Year – Confirm that you are ready to invest the time and effort into the coaching and creation of a new experience in 2024. 

    Embracing & Leading in Sustainability – Confirm your values and approaches that demonstrate a commitment to prioritizing zero waste, sustainability, and regenerative practices. - Understanding opportunity for individual success and community collaboration.

    What types of experiences are you looking for?

    We welcome a variety of experiences, from cultural and historical showcases to environmental adventures, as long as they offer an authentic representation of Seguin.

    What is the deadline for applications?

    Submission deadline is June 1, 2024 at 11:59pm Early submissions are encouraged as we're eager to start developing these experiences.

    How will the experiences be promoted?

    The program includes marketing support to promote the new experiences and attract visitors to Seguin Township.

    How long does the coaching and development process take?

    It takes roughly 5 months from beginning to end.

    Will there be any financial support or grants available to support my development?

    Yes! The Township will cover all costs associated with the program. The only thing you will need to contribute is your time, energy, and valuable ideas!

    Are there opportunities to network or collaborate with others in the program?

    Absolutely. At least one session will be presented in a group format so that you will all be able to get to know each other and establish a community amongst yourselves.

    Do I have to show up to the training sessions in person?

    Nearly all of your training will be delivered in a virtual format using Zoom. We find this to be the most effective method, allowing you to remain flexible in the scheduling and development of your experience. There will be an in-person visit to observe the physical location of your proposed experience, if you are one of the short-listed participants that are selected. The pilot of your experience, which will happen mid-summer, will also require us to attend in-person.