A new group has launched for providers of local tour venues, activities and other experiences at travel destinations.

Group Tour Professionals will provide education, professional development and networking opportunities, resources and exposure for independent destination experience operators from around the world, according to a statement. The new group will be based in the Dallas-area but also have representatives in the U.K.

GTP was founded by the same individuals who launched the International Association of Tour Directors and Guides, a nonprofit association that primarily serves tour managers/directors and guides. Membership in the new group will be free "until it can prove its value to members."

"We wouldn't dream of charging operators for membership for a new association. As operators ourselves, we know we wouldn't pay for something until we knew there were benefits. Right now, operators need more support, not more invoices," says Adam Connolly, GTP's director of development.

GTP is also offering a startup scholarship to provide one aspiring entrepreneur with regular mentoring, a place on a business startup course, and $500 towards starting their business. The group's website is tourpros.org.

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