Application is Now Open, Click Here to Apply
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (8 May 2023)—The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association Foundation has opened applications for this year’s David Martin Small Business Fellowship program to support entrepreneurs passionate about promoting LGBTQ+ tourism. This program will provide funding and mentorship to 10 LGBTQ+ small business owners/managers in the Caribbean, giving them the resources to attend IGLTA’s 40th Anniversary Global Convention in Puerto Rico (4-7 October) and contributing to their professional development in the LGBTQ+ tourism industry.
Fellowship recipients will have the opportunity to connect with travel industry leaders from around the world and attend all educational sessions during the convention. All travel and convention registration fees will be covered. The program also includes a post-conference follow-up to measure the success of the program.
“The David Martin Small Business Fellowship Program provides a unique opportunity for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs to network, learn, and grow in their careers, while making a positive impact on the advancement of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the travel industry,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella. “This year, we’re awarding the largest number of fellowships to date with a focus on elevating LGBTQ+ tourism professionals in the Caribbean. It’s a region attracting millions of tourists, and it’s important for our industry to understand the challenges queer people face throughout many of the islands.”
The IGLTA Foundation's Fellowship program aims to help LGBTQ+ individuals achieve their professional goals and contribute to the growth of the travel and tourism industry. Through its work, the Foundation has awarded 40 fellowships from more than 20 countries, providing financial support, professional development, and industry experience to empower the next generation of LGBTQ+ tourism leaders worldwide.
“Heading to Milano last year was both life and work-affirming as a trip. To be launched into a global stage, surrounded by people who want to drive forward our travel industry and the advancement of our rights as LGBTQ+ people was extraordinary,” said Mariana Radisic Koliren, Founder of Lunfarda Travel and 2022 David Martin Small Business Fellowship recipient. “I look forward to growing professionally and continuing to support and be involved in this organization.”
Applications for the fellowship program are now open and can be submitted here. The deadline to apply is 30 June.
For more information about the IGLTA Foundation Fellowship programs, visit our website or contact info@igltafoundation.org.
About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation
The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA's global network includes 12,500+ LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80 countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or @IGLTAFoundation, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.
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Photo by Mark Morin/@markmorinii