About the Conference
The Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference is the annual learning opportunity designed specifically for the Minnesota tourism industry. This premier educational event includes national keynote speakers, topical breakout sessions, networking and plenty of fresh and actionable ideas.
Agenda
This 2-day conference will occur on January 27 – 28, 2027.
View the agenda to learn more.
Learn More
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Sponsorship Opportunities
Sponsorships
Get your brand in front of hundreds of Minnesota tourism leaders and decision-makers as they gather for the 2027 Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference, January 27-28,2027, at the Saint Paul RiverCentre.
Conference sponsorships offer valuable opportunities to reach in-person attendees through sponsor recognition and engagement over the 2-day conference.
Sponsorships are available on a first-come, first-served basis and sell out fast, so book yours today!
Award Nominations
Explore Minnesota Tourism Awards
The Explore Minnesota Tourism Awards celebrate the outstanding people, marketing and initiatives that make Minnesota a premier travel destination.
Celebrate the best of Minnesota tourism by submitting a nomination for the annual Explore Minnesota Tourism Awards. Help us celebrate the outstanding people, marketing and initiatives that make Minnesota a premier travel destination.
Nominations will open on September 24, 2026. In the meantime, click to view last year's winners!
Scholarships & Mentorship
Explore Minnesota Scholarship & Mentorship Program
The Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference Mentorship Program connects experienced industry professionals with scholarship recipients. Scholarships are awarded to students who are interested in careers in travel, leisure and hospitality, and members of Minnesota’s 11 Tribal Nations. Mentors will be matched with up to two scholarship recipients and are expected to provide guidance, industry insight and introductions at the 2027 Tourism Conference. The Tourism Conference Mentorship program is open to any professional in Minnesota's travel and tourism industry with at least three years of related experience.
Timeline for Scholarship/Mentorship Program
· September 17, 2026: Application period opens
· November 13, 2026: Application period ends
· November 20, 2026: All applicants will be notified of status
· December 18, 2026: Deadline for Mentors to register for the conference
· January 27-28, 2027: Explore Minnesota Tourism Conference
· February 19, 2027: Deadline to submit mileage reimbursement forms for payment
Destination