Destination marketing or management organizations act as the community, county or local authority leader in tourism marketing and development.

An organization's primary mission is to market cities, towns, counties or regions to potential visitors. Further, they provide local visitor/meeting planning services, and act as a catalyst and/or builder in ensuring the development of appropriate attractions, facilities/services, and infrastructure needed to provide destination experiences.

The DMO is:

• An umbrella organization that solicits and services all types of travelers
• Essentially an information clearinghouse, convention management consultant and promotional body for the community
• Also a coordinating entity that brings together the interests of local government, trade and civic associations, and individual travel suppliers to build outside visitor traffic to an area
• Foremost a tourism economic development agent that assists in increasing an area’s income and employment and enhancing the quality of life for its residents