Community invited to celebrate at the Riverwalk Backyard on September 18!

Vail Valley Partnership (VVP) traces its roots to the early days of the Vail Valley's tourism-oriented development. The formal inception of the Vail Valley Partnership came in 1964, originally established as the Vail Resort Association. Its primary goal was to support and promote the interests of the local business community. The organization aimed to foster a collaborative environment among businesses to enhance the economic vitality of the region.

Vail Valley Partnership has evolved alongside the local community. As the county has grown, so have we – and our name has changed over the years to reflect this. We’ve been called Vail Resort Association (VRA), Vail Valley Tourism & Convention Bureau (VVTCB), Vail Valley Chamber & Tourism Bureau (VVCTB), and Vail Valley Partnership (VVP). Too many acronyms? Probably so – but all to better reflect the needs of the business community.

Over the decades, the organization evolved to meet the changing needs of the local community. In the 1980s and 1990s, as the region experienced significant growth in tourism and real estate, the Vail Valley Partnership expanded its services. It began to offer marketing, networking, customer service, and tourism programs to support the diverse needs of its members.

In 2007, the organization rebranded itself as Vail Valley Partnership to better reflect its broader mission and scope. This marked a significant expansion of services, including the introduction of comprehensive economic development initiatives, workforce development programs, advocacy, and targeted destination marketing efforts. The rebranding also emphasized the organization's commitment to collaboration, representing business interests with government, and community engagement.

Since the rebrand, Vail Valley Partnership has continued to play a crucial role in the region's economic and community development. The organization has been instrumental in addressing key issues such as workforce housing, transportation, and workforce development. Through its various programs and initiatives, VVP has helped foster a resilient and dynamic business environment in Eagle County.

The organization's impact is evident in its contributions to the region's tourism industry, support for local businesses, and advocacy for policies that promote community vitality. We strive to remain a vital force in shaping the future of Eagle County, ensuring that it continues to thrive as a premier destination for visitors and a vibrant community for residents. This work has resulted in the Partnership being recognized as National Chamber of the Year in 2024, 2020, and 2016.

Vail Valley Partnership's rich history reflects its unwavering commitment to the economic and community development of the Vail Valley. From its early days as the Vail Resort Association to its current role as a multifaceted organization, VVP has continually adapted and expanded its services to meet the needs of its members and the broader community. As the Vail Valley continues to grow and evolve, the Vail Valley Partnership will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of the region's success.

Thank you to all the volunteer board members and to the current and past staff members who have worked for the VRA, VVTCB, VVCTB, or VVP. You have all contributed to making the Partnership what it is today. And to our members – you’re the ones we work for, and we couldn’t do it without you!

We invite the entire community to celebrate the Vail Valley Partnership’s 60th Anniversary Celebration and our recent Chamber of the Year on September 18 at the Riverwalk Backyard. We hope you can join us to celebrate the past 60 years and set the stage for the next 60 years of serving the local community. 

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, the regional chamber of commerce. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com