The New Jersey Tourism Industry Association (NJTIA) was established to serve as a unified voice for the tourism industry in the state of New Jersey. Recognizing the immense economic and cultural impact of tourism, NJTIA was founded to advocate for policies, initiatives, and partnerships that support and grow the industry. The association brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including hospitality professionals, attractions, cultural institutions, and destination marketing organizations.

As New Jersey’s tourism industry grew, so did NJTIA’s influence. In the 1980s and 1990s, the association became a powerful advocate in Trenton, pushing for increased funding for tourism marketing and infrastructure development. The organization worked closely with state agencies to ensure the industry’s needs were represented in policymaking.

NJTIA also played a key role in shaping major legislative initiatives, including policies related to tourism funding, hotel and lodging taxes, and investments in the state’s parks, beaches, and historical sites.

Throughout its history, NJTIA has shown resilience in addressing challenges that impacted the tourism industry. The association took a leadership role in disaster recovery efforts, such as after Hurricane Sandy in 2012, which devastated parts of New Jersey’s coastline. NJTIA advocated for relief funding and supported campaigns to restore New Jersey’s image as a premier destination.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, NJTIA worked tirelessly to support its members by providing resources, hosting virtual events, and lobbying for relief programs to mitigate the effects of shutdowns on the tourism and hospitality industries.

Today, NJTIA remains at the forefront of tourism advocacy in New Jersey. The organization collaborates with government agencies, educational institutions, and private-sector partners to drive innovation in the tourism industry.