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MINNEAPOLIMEDIA NEWS | Explore Minnesota Sets November 13 Deadlines for Tourism Awards, Student Scholarships and Tribal Mentorship Opportunities
The state's tourism agency is accepting nominations for industry recognition and applications for professional-development opportunities connected to its January 2027 conference.
SAINT PAUL, MN (November 13, 2026).
Friday marks an important deadline for Minnesota's tourism industry as Explore Minnesota closes several application and nomination opportunities connected to its upcoming statewide tourism conference.
The agency has established November 13 as the deadline for applications to its conference scholarship and mentorship program.
The same date is also the deadline for nominations for the 2026 Explore Minnesota Tourism Awards, with submissions closing at 5 p.m.
The opportunities are designed to recognize tourism professionals and help emerging participants gain access to industry education and professional relationships.
Supporting the Next Generation of Tourism Professionals
Explore Minnesota offers conference scholarships for eligible college students in Minnesota and staff or enrolled members of the 11 tribal nations sharing geography with the state.
The scholarship and mentorship initiative is intended to support professional development and networking.
Recipients are paired with tourism professionals who can provide guidance and industry insight.
For students and early-career participants, access to experienced mentors can help clarify career options and introduce them to organizations involved in tourism development.
The program also creates opportunities for participants from tribal communities to engage with the broader tourism industry.
Recognizing Contributions Across Minnesota
The Explore Minnesota Tourism Awards recognize individuals, marketing efforts and initiatives contributing to the state's visitor economy.
Tourism activity supports businesses and organizations across Minnesota, including lodging providers, restaurants, cultural attractions, entertainment venues and outdoor recreation destinations.
The industry also has connections to community development, local employment and the preservation and interpretation of cultural heritage.
Recognition programs can bring attention to successful projects and encourage the exchange of ideas among tourism organizations.
Looking Ahead to the 2027 Conference
Explore Minnesota's annual tourism conference is scheduled for January 27 and 28, 2027, at Saint Paul RiverCentre.
The conference will provide professional-development and networking opportunities for tourism industry participants.
The agency is also inviting proposals from potential speakers interested in sharing practical knowledge and approaches to tourism-related challenges.
Friday's deadlines concern the awards and scholarship opportunities specifically.
Applicants should review the official program requirements before submitting materials.
THE TAKEAWAY
The November 13 deadlines offer opportunities for Minnesota tourism organizations, students and tribal community members.
The awards recognize work already undertaken, while the scholarship and mentorship program focuses on developing future talent.
Both initiatives reflect the importance of professional relationships and continued learning within an industry that contributes to communities throughout Minnesota.
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