The Arkansas Association of Convention & Visitors Bureaus (AACVB), comprised of destination marketing organizations, was established to develop cooperative marketing, promotion and educational programs among convention and visitor bureaus and Advertising & Promotion Commissions in the state and to provide resources and a support network for its members.
AACVB strives to enhance the awareness and influence of the convention and visitor industry, through the efforts of convention and visitors bureaus, as a visible economic generator for Arkansas. Another goal of AACVB is to influence government, in cooperation with the Arkansas Hospitality Association, at all levels in matters that impact convention and visitor bureaus and/or the convention and visitor industry.
AACVB was founded in 2004 and represents convention and visitor bureaus, advertising & promotion commissions, tourism departments and chambers of commerce throughout the state. Membership in the association is granted to organizations that serve as the official destination marketing organization for their jurisdiction. Members represent a cross-section of Arkansas communities. All members of the association, both large and small, are dedicated to the continued growth of the Arkansas convention and visitor industry while attaining and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.
Mission Statement
The AACVB serves as a unifying voice for all of Arkansas' Convention & Visitors Bureaus and/or Advertising & Promotion Commissions. The AACVB strives to increase the overall effectiveness of Arkansas' destination marketing efforts in a cohesive manner and serve as an advocate for its members. The AACVB provides cooperative action to enhance and encourage the growth of tourism through educational opportunities, enhancing professionalism, and facilitating the cooperative exchange of information.
Definition of a CVB
What is a Convention & Visitors Bureau?
Convention & Visitors Bureaus are not-for-profit organizations or city organizations enabled by the A&P Tax code charged with representing a specific destination and helping the long-term development of communities through a travel and tourism strategy. Convention & Visitor Bureaus are usually tax collecting entities or membership organizations that bring together businesses that rely on tourism and meetings for revenue.
For visitors, CVB's are like a key to the city. As an unbiased resource, CVB's can serve as a broker or an official point of contact for convention and meeting planners, tour operators and visitors. They assist planners with meeting preparation and encourage business travelers and visitors alike to visit local historic, cultural and recreational attractions.
Why are meetings and tourism important?
Travel and tourism enhances the quality of life for a local community by providing jobs, bringing in tax dollars for improvement of services and infrastructure, and attracting facilities like restaurants, shops, festivals, and cultural and sporting venues that cater to both visitors and locals.