Learn about DDC initiatives and updates on meeting in the nation’s capital.
DDC highlights top reasons to visit Washington, DC for meetings and events.
Elliott Recognized by the Washington Business Journal
Elliott has received the Tourism Champion Award for 2025 from the Washington Business Journal. He joins other esteemed local leaders in the publication’s independent editorial awards that recognize leaders making a difference in their industries.
DDC’s Shirley Del Carpio Promoted to Director of Sales
Shirley brings over 20 years of experience in hospitality and convention sales, with a proven track record of consistently surpassing goals and leading high-performing teams. She joined DDC in 2021 as a Senior National Account Director and has been integral to the organization’s success. Read the full release.
DDC Highlights Strategy for Hosting Meetings at IMEX America
DDC reinforced its commitment to growing meetings and events during IMEX America, highlighting the city’s resilience, new developments and strategic initiatives that set the nation’s capital apart as a premier global destination for conventions. Read the full release.
DDC and Partners Kick Off DC 250
DDC unveiled a dedicated microsite showcasing why the nation's capital is the best place to celebrate America's 250th anniversary. The site includes member and partner events, inspirational content and more. Read the full release.
DDC Receives Industry Awards
DDC has been recognized by the following trade outlets:
Smart Meetings 2025 Platinum Choice Award
Convention South 2025 Readers' Choice Award
Prevue’s 2025 Visionary Award
Best of Meetings Today Award, 2025
The American Experience Foundation Announces NEXTDC
Brand The American Experience Foundation announced its new name and brand identity: NEXTDC. The rebrand reflects a renewed mission to invest in the next generation of hospitality professionals, connecting Washington, DC’s youth to meaningful educational and career experiences across the tourism, hospitality, media and sports industries. Read the annual review and full release.
Member/Partner Updates
The Princeton Review released its 2026 Guide to Green Colleges, highlighting 388 institutions recognized for their commitment to environmental sustainability. American University secured the #2 spot for its exceptional sustainability achievements, including reaching carbon neutrality in 2018, and implementing its ambitious Sustainability Strategic Plan 2030.
The Newest Additions to The MICHELIN Guide Washington, DC: October 2025
Eight restaurants in Washington, DC were newly added as “recommended” by the Michelin Guide this fall ahead of the official star/Bib Gourmand announcements. DDC member Fish Shop was recognized among the prestigious new additions to the MICHELIN Guide.
Celebrate the 2025 RAMW RAMMY Winners and Finalists
Congratulations to our member businesses Atlas Brew Works, 2Fifty BBQ, Jetties, Cafe du Parc and Founding Farmers on their wins. See the full list of winners on RAMMY’s website.
The District Department of Transportation’s Strategic Bike Plan outlines a five-year strategy to expand and connect DC’s bikeway network through protected lanes, safer infrastructure and equitable access. It supports the city’s broader goals of sustainability, mobility and community.
DC Leaders Announce Plan to Increase Waterfront Access in Georgetown
Georgetown will donate a parcel of land on the Potomac River to the National Park Service, allowing for a continuous path from the Capital Crescent Trail to the Georgetown Waterfront Park.
Sustainability Updates
DDC continues its commitment to sustainability and works with local industry and city partners on impactful initiatives. DDC’s Sustainability District, with over 75 members, helps planners connect with sustainable hotels, venues, DMC and convention services. Washington, DC proudly ranks 1st among U.S. destinations in the Global Destination Sustainability Index (GDS-Index) for the fourth year in a row, reflecting the city’s ongoing commitment to transparency and continuous improvement.
DDC is Hiring
Interested in helping promote the nation’s capital to the world? Check out current openings at DDC.