Experience Columbus Insider (ECI) Program
Live to Share the City
The Experience Columbus Insider program intends to educate residents and equip the local hospitality industry to understand the economic impact that accompanies a strong tourism economy. Our goal is to provide resources and education for local industry professionals via the completion of the online ECI program developed by Experience Columbus.
Why become an Experience Columbus Insider?
We believe our ECI course will do more than offer you an official accreditation. It will empower you as part of the local ECI community, and you'll enjoy the benefits of being in-the-know on local developments and behind-the-scenes opportunities. You’ll meet other insiders at exclusive ECI events, stay informed on city happenings, and you’ll get plenty of local perks along the way.
There is a non-refundable, non-transferable accreditation fee of $39 per person. This will give you access to the class, resource materials, and, upon completion of the class, the benefits below.
- Exclusive discounts and offers at local businesses
- ECI Accreditation listed on your email signature, resume, LinkedIn, etc.
- Invitations to dress rehearsals and opening nights of performances by the Short North Stage, BalletMet, Opera Columbus, and more!
- Access to Experience Columbus Insider exclusive events and behind-the-scenes tours
- Access to Insider portal with resources, what's new in Columbus, and ways to interact with other insiders
- Access to closed Facebook group and Insider networking events
What is the impact?
Each year, Greater Columbus welcomes 49.6 million visitors who spend over $6.6 billion in our local community. These visitors are impacted by the experiences they have in the city and the people who help them. The more residents who have been trained with this program, the better the visitor experience. Columbus visitors often say that the people they interacted with in Columbus made their time here memorable and special. It makes them want to come back and tell their friends to visit, too. This all leads to more dollars spent in Columbus at local businesses and restaurants. Learn more about tourism's impact on the community and help be a part of keeping our tourism economy thriving.
“The Convention Center loves the Insider program. It has really helped our employees to feel empowered to answer guest questions about not only our facility, but the entire surrounding area. That has led to increased job satisfaction and an enhanced experience for our guests.”
More Ways to Get Involved
