McLean, VA – February 18, 2021 – The Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) Foundation is opening its COVID Relief Fund for grant applications following a generous donation of $150,000 from the Carolyn Smith Foundation on behalf of STR Founders Carolyn and Randy Smith.
The HSMAI Foundation COVID Relief Fund was established in 2020 with the generous support of benefactors including the Carolyn Smith Foundation, IDeaS Revenue Solutions, and individual donors including past and present leaders Hoyt Bacon, Mike Leven, and Flo Lugli. The fund provides HSMAI membership and educational grants for HSMAI programs to members and industry professionals in need due to challenging circumstances related to the global pandemic.
“HSMAI and the Foundation are very grateful for the significant contributions from the Carolyn Smith Foundation, IDeaS, and many individuals,” said Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHBA, executive director of the HSMAI Foundation and president and CEO of HSMAI. “The COVID Relief Fund will help professionals in our industry who greatly need the education, resources, and support that HSMAI can provide. It is an honor to serve those who serve during the pandemic. Every contribution counts.”
“The Carolyn Smith Foundation’s contribution to the HSMAI Foundation Covid Relief Fund is extraordinary,” said Agnelo Fernandes, chair of the HSMAI Foundation. “This contribution will touch many hospitality professional’s lives and bring renewed momentum to our industry as we move into recovery in the coming weeks and months.”
Donate to the Fund
Hospitality companies and individuals are welcome to support the HSMAI Foundation and the COVID Relief Fund. For more information, visit the HSMAI Foundation.
Apply for a grant from the Fund
HSMAI COVID Relief Fund grant applications can be submitted in each HSMAI Region around the globe. The grants help give hospitality professionals access to HSMAI educational programs, certifications, and membership. The due date for first-quarter grants is Wednesday, March 31, 2021. Grant recipients will be notified by Thursday, April 15, 2021. Applicants are limited to only one grant per quarter. Regional applications can be made by visiting:
- HSMAI Foundation COVID Relief Grant Application Americas
- HSMAI Foundation COVID Relief Grant Application Asia Pacific
- HSMAI Foundation COVID Relief Grant Application Europe
- HSMAI Foundation COVID Relief Grant Application Middle East
