Detroit tourism bureau targeting faith-based and multicultural convention markets

The Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau has attracted a number of conventions from multicultural groups that are expected to bring $80 million into the city.

These conventions include the Black Enterprise (1,500 attendees), National Baptist Convention USA (55,000), Asian American Journalists (1,000), Urban Financial Services (500) and National Funeral Directors and Morticians (1,500).

The bureau is going after more of these faith-based and multi-cultural conventions, releasing three new viral videos depicting what Detroit has to offer to the multicultural, religious and African-American markets. It's also going after other groups besides the multi-cultural-based markets, but the multi-cultural groups present a big opportunity for Detroit.

The Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau is targeting 30 groups specifically now that downtown has been spiffed up and ready to shine with the likes of the newly restored Book Cadillac and Fort Shelby hotels.

"The caliber of all the new hotels built in the last few years can satisfy the need," says Deanna Majchrzak, marketing and community specialist for the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau. "The downtown is very walkable and walkability is very important thing for these groups."

Source: Deanna Majchrzak, marketing and community specialist for the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau
Writer: Jon Zemke