Purpose
The purpose of the Travel Federation of Iowa (TFI) is to provide a unified advocacy voice of Iowa’s travel industry. Iowa’s travel-related businesses, destinations and attractions work together through TFI to contribute to the growth of Iowa’s economy and enhance the authentic visitor experience to Iowa.
History
Originally the travel industry in Iowa coordinated efforts through the Iowa Travel Council, which consisted of representatives from various tourism organizations within the state. The council consisted of one staff person and one board member from each entity.
By the early 1990’s, industry members felt the structure needed to be changed and the Travel Federation of Iowa (TFI) was created. TFI was formed to provide a unified advocacy voice for the Iowa tourism industry and board members were selected from the regions. Annually the group holds advocacy events/surveys and started the Iowa Tourism Legislative Showcase. TFI is also involved in hosting the Iowa Tourism Conference and originally co-sponsored the annual Iowa Tourism Industry Awards.
Today the TFI board consists of tourism industry representatives. The primary funding for their efforts comes from regional support as well as event sponsors and funds raised through advocacy events. The group utilizes District Leaders from legislative districts in Iowa to carry out advocacy efforts and contracts for professional lobbying services.