This summer, the Cincinnati region is preparing to welcome more visitors than ever before. From one of the largest conventions in our history to a calendar packed with festivals, concerts, sporting events, and cultural experiences, the momentum is undeniable.
That excitement—and the opportunity it creates for our business community—was the focus of the Cincinnati Regional Chamber’s June Monthly Member Briefing. Chamber members heard from regional leaders who shared how tourism, collaboration, and sustainability are driving economic growth and strengthening Greater Cincinnati.
Featuring Regina Carswell Russo, Founder & CEO of Right Now Communications; Julie Kirkpatrick, President & CEO of Meet NKY and Interim President & CEO of Visit Cincy; and Mary Kroppenbaker, Assistant Solid Waste Manager for Hamilton County R3Source, the conversation reinforced an important message: when our region works together, everyone benefits.
Tourism Is an Economic Driver
Tourism is much more than attracting visitors—it’s an investment in our regional economy.
Each year, approximately 26 million visitors come to the Cincinnati region, generating $6.5 billion in economic impact and supporting more than 60,000 jobs. Those visitors fill our hotels, dine in our restaurants, shop at local businesses, attend events, and experience everything that makes our region unique.
Julie Kirkpatrick shared that Visit Cincy and Meet NKY are focused on four key priorities: creating economic impact, delivering an exceptional visitor experience, strengthening regional partnerships, and serving as responsible stewards of visitor-generated tax dollars.
Together, these priorities help ensure that visitors don’t simply enjoy their stay—they leave as ambassadors for our region.
A Historic Summer for Cincinnati
One of the biggest opportunities this summer is the Omega Psi Phi Grand Conclave, taking place July 30 through August 3.
The convention is expected to welcome more than 30,000 visitors, book nearly 11,000 hotel room nights, and generate millions of dollars in economic activity throughout the region. It represents the largest convention to visit Cincinnati since the World Choir Games in 2012 and showcases the region’s growing ability to compete for major national events.
Businesses and residents alike have an opportunity to help create a memorable experience by extending a warm Cincinnati welcome throughout the week.
Regional Collaboration Creates Regional Success
A recurring theme throughout the briefing was partnership.
Visit Cincy and Meet NKY continue to market the Cincinnati region as one destination, recognizing that visitors don’t distinguish between state lines—they simply experience our region.
Whether promoting BLINK®, attracting conventions, or competing for future opportunities like the NFL Draft or Rugby World Cup, collaboration across Ohio and Northern Kentucky strengthens our ability to compete nationally.
As Julie Kirkpatrick shared, “The river connects us—it does not separate us.”
That spirit of regionalism is one of Greater Cincinnati’s greatest competitive advantages.
Preparing for a Busy Summer
The briefing also highlighted one of the busiest weekends Cincinnati has seen in recent years.
On Saturday, August 1, downtown will simultaneously host:
Omega Psi Phi Grand Conclave activities
A Chris Stapleton concert at Paycor Stadium
A Cincinnati Reds game
An FC Cincinnati match
Regional leaders are encouraging everyone to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and exercise patience as tens of thousands of visitors enjoy everything our community has to offer.
Behind the scenes, city leaders, public safety agencies, tourism organizations, and event organizers have been working together to ensure a safe, welcoming, and seamless experience for residents and visitors alike.
Sustainability Is Good Business
The second half of the briefing shifted from tourism to another important driver of regional success: sustainability.
Mary Kroppenbaker shared how Hamilton County R3Source is helping businesses reduce waste, improve recycling efforts, and lower operating costs through free technical assistance and educational resources.
The organization offers:
Free waste audits
Recycling and composting guidance
Interior recycling containers and signage
Specialty recycling assistance
Grants of up to $15,000 for waste diversion infrastructure
By understanding what enters their waste stream, businesses can identify opportunities to reduce landfill waste while improving operational efficiency.
Supporting Businesses Through 513 Green
Businesses looking to expand their sustainability efforts can also participate in 513 Green, Hamilton County R3Source’s free certification program.
Designed for organizations of every size and industry, the program provides a practical roadmap for implementing sustainable business practices and recognizing companies committed to environmental stewardship.
Participants may also qualify for rebates supporting composting services, waste tracking software, and additional sustainability initiatives.
Looking Ahead
As Greater Cincinnati prepares for an exciting summer filled with conventions, festivals, sporting events, and cultural celebrations, one thing is clear: our success depends on working together.
Whether welcoming visitors, supporting local businesses, investing in sustainability, or promoting our region on the national stage, collaboration remains one of Cincinnati’s greatest strengths.
The Chamber is proud to bring together leaders and organizations who are helping move our region forward—and we look forward to continuing these conversations throughout the year.
Join Us Next Time
There will be no Monthly Member Briefing in July. We look forward to welcoming members back on Thursday, August 13, when we’ll hear from Dan Feldman, Regional President of Fifth Third Bank, for our next Monthly Member Briefing. Register Here.