Explore Minnesota Tourism is tasked with promoting the state as a premier travel destination through strategic communications, public engagement, and data-driven marketing initiatives. The agency’s core mission centers on enhancing Minnesota’s tourism economy by shaping public perception, increasing...
Explore Minnesota Tourism is tasked with promoting the state as a premier travel destination through strategic communications, public engagement, and data-driven marketing initiatives. The agency’s core mission centers on enhancing Minnesota’s tourism economy by shaping public perception, increasing visitor engagement, and demonstrating the economic value of travel through targeted outreach and research. Strategic priorities include developing compelling travel narratives, producing high-impact promotional materials, and commissioning independent economic impact analyses to inform policy and investment decisions. Key programs focus on statewide brand positioning, visitor experience enhancement, and collaboration with regional tourism partners to drive year-round visitation.
The agency procures professional services that support marketing communications, public relations, and printed media production. Contracts are typically awarded through competitive solicitations for specialized external expertise, with a consistent reliance on third-party vendors to execute campaigns and deliverables that align with state branding standards. Procurements are structured as performance-based engagements, emphasizing deliverables such as media campaigns, printed guides, and analytical reports rather than ongoing operational support.
Primary procurement activity targets Public Relations Agencies (NAICS 541820), Commercial Printing (NAICS 323111), and Engineering Services (NAICS 541330), reflecting a focus on message dissemination, tangible promotional assets, and economic research. The agency does not utilize set-asides and engages vendors through open, non-preferential procurement processes. Vendor relationships are project-specific, with an emphasis on creative, analytical, and production capabilities rather than long-term service agreements.
Explore Minnesota Tourism operates under the State of Minnesota’s Department of Minnesota, with no distinct physical headquarters listed. It functions as a state-level tourism promotion entity, utilizing standard state procurement vehicles for services. Its operations are statewide in scope, supporting tourism initiatives across all regions of Minnesota through contracted professional services.
