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Discover Saskatoon Earns Rare International Distinction in Destination Marketing Excellence
Saskatoon joins a select group of Canadian destinations recognized with DMAP’s highest honour
Discover Saskatoon has achieved something only a handful of destination organizations worldwide can claim. The organization has been awarded the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) seal with distinction by Destinations International, placing Saskatoon among an elite group of just three Canadian destinations to receive the designation.
The DMAP designation is no small feat. Organizations must demonstrate rigorous compliance across mandatory and voluntary standards spanning governance, finance, human resources, sales, communications, destination development, and research — essentially every dimension of operating a world-class destination organization. Of the nearly 200 destination organizations worldwide that hold DMAP accreditation, only a select few have earned it with distinction.
As Saskatchewan’s only accredited Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), Discover Saskatoon plays a unique role in advancing the province's visitor economy and strengthening Saskatoon’s position as a competitive destination for visitors, business events, sport and major events, and investment. Accreditation provides access to national and international partnerships, industry research and trend forecasting, collaborative marketing opportunities with Destination Canada and other leading destinations, as well as programs like the International Convention Attraction Fund, which helps Canadian destinations compete for high-value international business events.
Beyond industry recognition, this designation strengthens Discover Saskatoon’s ability to attract visitors, major events, and opportunities that generate hotel stays, restaurant visits, retail spending, cultural participation, and local employment. It also reinforces Saskatoon’s reputation as a vibrant and globally competitive city with the leadership, partnerships, and operational excellence required to compete with leading destinations across Canada and around the world.
“We are pleased to have Discover Saskatoon join our distinguished group of accredited organizations,” said Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International. “The industry distinction defines quality and performance standards for destination organizations, and I look forward to welcoming them to the DMAP community.”
"This designation is a statement about Saskatoon and the people who make it an exceptional destination,” said Stephanie Pocha, President & CEO of Discover Saskatoon. “Receiving the DMAP seal with distinction reflects the incredible team at Discover Saskatoon, the investment of Saskatoon’s Best Hotels, the support of our members and partners, and our shared commitment to operating at the highest standard. It confirms that Saskatoon can compete with the best destinations in Canada and around the world, and that our city is positioned for continued growth through tourism, business events, sport and major events."
About Discover Saskatoon
Discover Saskatoon is the official destination management organization for Saskatoon and the surrounding region, funded through Saskatoon Destination Marketing Hotels (SDMH) and the City of Saskatoon. Together with our partners, we promote Saskatoon as a welcoming, vibrant destination for visitors, major events, meetings, and experiences that strengthen the local visitor economy and showcase the spirit of our city.
About Destinations International
Destinations International is the world’s largest and most trusted resource for destination organizations, convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs) and tourism boards. With over 10,000 members and partners from more than 770 destinations worldwide, the association represents a powerful forward-thinking and collaborative global community.
For more information, visit www.destinationsinternational.org.
