2026 Small DMO Workshop
Registration IS NOW OPEN for the first small dmo workshop
April 14 - 15, 2026
Hilton College Station
The Small DMO Workshop is designed specifically for leaders of small destination organizations who are looking to connect, share ideas, and discover practical strategies that drive real results. Join colleagues from across Texas as we set the stage for an afternoon of collaboration, inspiration, and actionable insights tailored for small but mighty teams.
**note: if you feel like you operate your DMO on limited staffing and financial resources, this workshop is for you. There is no qualifying threshold in order to attend.
WORKSHOP AGENDA
Tuesday, April 14th:
1:00 p.m. Welcome to the 1st Destinations Texas Small DMO Workshop
1:30 p.m. What Small DMOs Are Doing Really Well
Join us for an inspiring peer panel showcasing how small destination organizations are achieving big results. Hear firsthand from innovative leaders who are finding creative ways to drive visitation, deliver community value, and maximize impact with limited resources. This conversation will highlight real world strategies, bold ideas, and practical approaches that prove you do not need a large team or budget to make a meaningful difference in your destination.
2:15 p.m. Efficiency and Operational Excellence for Small Teams
Running a small DMO requires wearing many hats and making every minute count. In this interactive workshop, discover tools, workflows, and practical strategies that help small teams operate more efficiently while still delivering big outcomes. From smarter time management to proven productivity practices, this session will provide actionable ideas you can immediately apply to streamline your work, stay focused on what matters most, and increase your organization’s overall impact.
3:00 p.m. Break
3:15 p.m. Bringing Big Events to Small Destinations
How can small destinations compete for major events, productions, and tournaments? Join this engaging discussion to explore how partnerships, creativity, and strategic thinking can help smaller communities attract big opportunities. Through real examples and practical insights, you will learn how destinations are successfully landing sporting events, festivals, and film projects that elevate visibility, generate economic impact, and bring new energy to their communities.
4:00 p.m. Advocacy and Storytelling: Making the Case for Your DMO
Your work drives economic impact, community pride, and visitor experiences, but how do you effectively communicate that value to elected officials and local stakeholders? This session will explore how small DMOs can use compelling storytelling, clear data, and meaningful outcomes to demonstrate their importance. Learn how to strengthen credibility, build trust with decision makers, and confidently advocate for the resources and support your destination needs to thrive.
4:30 p.m. Open Forum: The Conversations That Matter Most
Close out the day with an open, collaborative discussion focused on the topics that matter most to you. This informal session gives participants the chance to ask questions, share challenges, exchange ideas, and learn directly from peers who understand the realities of running a small DMO.
Wednesday, April 15th
8:00am - 9:00am Breakfast
9:00am - 11:30am AI 101 + Governance Class: This session provides a solid foundation in AI basics, practical tools, and safe adoption, setting you up for success.
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- What AI is and is not
- Why adopting AI skills are important
- What are the main tools and uses
- Understanding the importance of prompting
- Live demonstrations with real business scenarios
- Data privacy, security, and compliance basics
- Common myths, risks, and misconceptions
**The Small DMO Workshop will count as an elective towards the DMS program
CONFERENCE CANCELLATION DATE: FRIDAY, MARCH 13th
Our cancellation policy is as follows:
- Before the cancellation date, you can cancel for a full refund minus a $80 administrative fee.
- After the cancellation date, no transfers or refunds for cancellations.
**THE LINK ABOVE IS FOR THE SMALL DMO WORKSHOP ONLY.
IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO STAY FOR THE INNOVATION SUMMIT, YOU WILL REGISTER FOR BOTH EVENTS HERE.
Thank you to our presenting sponsor:
Interested in speaking at one of our events?