Become a Certified Tourism Ambassador!
Get involved in Greenville, South Carolina's Certified Tourism Ambassador™ Program, a comprehensive certification program designed to educate residents and empower the local hospitality industry. By becoming a Certified Tourism Ambassador™ (CTA), you'll enhance your knowledge of our vibrant area, forge valuable connections with industry colleagues, play a vital role in fostering the growth of Greenville's tourism and hospitality sector, and understand the economic impact of tourism on our region.
Who Should Enroll?
Certification enrollment is open to anyone who is directly or indirectly involved in the tourism industry or in serving locals and visitors (leisure travelers, business travelers, spectators, attendees).
Upcoming Classes
*Classes are hosted from 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM and will be held at the VGSC Offices unless otherwise indicated*
Wednesday, May 14, 2025 (registration at capacity)
Wednesday, June 18, 2025 (registration at capacity)
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 (registration at capacity)
Wednesday, August 27, 2025 (registration at capacity)
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
2026 Class Schedule released in late 2025
*Before attending, registration is required*
How Does the Program Work?
To earn the CTA designation, all participants must:
-
Complete a required reading assignment
(approx. 200 pages, including exercises)
-
Attend a half-day classroom session
Four instructional modules include:
1) The Power of Tourism
2) Discovering Greenville, SC
3) Knowing, Finding & Using Resources
4) Exceeding Customer Expectations -
Pass an open-book certification exam
Upon successful completion of the program, participants will earn the Certified Tourism Ambassador™ designation (you may use the CTA initials behind your name, e.g. Jane Doe, CTA), along with a certificate of completion and lapel pin.
An annual renewal process that includes continuing education is necessary to maintain your certification.
How Much Does the Program Cost?
There is a one-time non-refundable enrollment fee of $25 per person. The annual certification renewal fee is regularly $20, or $10 with an early-bird discount. Group discounts are available.
What Impact Does This Program Have?
Each year, Greenville welcomes seven million visitors who spend over $1.5 billion in our local community. These visitors’ experiences in Greenville County and the interactions they have with locals leave a lasting impact. The more residents trained through this program, the better the overall visitor experience becomes. Greenville visitors often say that the people they interacted with 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 Greenville at local businesses and restaurants. Help be a part of keeping our tourism economy thriving!
Still have questions? Reach out for more information.
Read the Program's Feature in Upstate Business Journal
"Locals can make a lasting impression on those visiting."
Advantages of Becoming a CTA
*Provides a Meaningful Credential
*Builds Valuable Skills
*Career Advancement
*Networking Opportunities
*Receive Industry Information & Updates
*Rewards & Incentives
I have always enjoyed showcasing Greenville to visitors but now I realize what an impact it has, I enjoy it even more.