RISING STAR AWARD​

This person or business is new to Maine’s tourism industry and has earned recognition for their own professional growth or for advancing the success of their business/organization and raising the bar for tourism in Maine. Accomplishments can include, but are not limited to the following:

• Product development or marketing

• Use of new technology

• Adapting business practices to leverage travel and tourism trends

• Creation of innovative collaborations or partnerships

 

 

LEADERSHIP & GROWTH AWARD

This company/organization/person not only strives to grow its own business, but also works with others within the industry to grow tourism in Maine in a sustainable way. Accomplishments can include, but are not limited to the following:

• Local, regional and statewide tourism initiatives

• Builds partnerships and collaborations

• Job creation

• Reinvests in tourism through upgrades and expansions

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STEWARDSHIP AWARD

This company/organization/community is promoting tourism in a way that supports the triple bottom line of
economy, environment and community, and the sustainable growth of tourism in their destination. Initiatives
can include, but are not limited to the following:

• Showcasing Maine’s local makers, artists and food producers

• Marketing and PR that promotes the cultural identity of Maine communities

• Encouraging responsible behaviors that protect Maine’s natural environment

• Programs that connect Maine’s cultural and natural assets

• Natural and cultural resource programs that preserve and celebrate the authentic character of Maine

• Accessible travel adaptations

• (See the Maine Office of Tourism’s nine Stewardship Principles)

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WELCOMEME AWARD

This person has set a standard for exemplary customer service as a member of Maine’s tourism front-line workforce. Examples can include but are not limited to:

• Empowering visitors to explore more of Maine

• Acting as an ambassador for their destination

• Improving the visitor experience

 

 

*GOVERNOR’S AWARD FOR TOURISM EXCELLENCE*

Tourism excellence is a combination of all that epitomizes a true hospitality leader – a business, organization or person with a steadfast commitment to employees, customers and community as well as to the tourism industry in Maine overall. Please provide as much detail as possible in each of those areas.

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