About Us
By building a stronger Rural Tourism Network we can maximize tourism’s positive impacts, improving economic opportunity and cultural resilience in rural communities across the United States.
We are on a mission to connect everyone shaping rural tourism in the United States.
Who We Are
Our Approach
We don't believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. We believe in infrastructure tailored to rural realities: capacity constraints, budget limitations, and the need to preserve local character while building tourism economies.
That means platforms designed for teams of three, not thirty. Consulting that helps you orchestrate regional initiatives, not just plan them. Research that validates what rural tourism professionals already know: collaboration works, but only with the right support.
Our Partnership
We partner with Tourismo, a Canadian tourism technology platform, to deliver white-label infrastructure specifically adapted for rural markets. This partnership lets us focus on what we do best—understanding rural tourism challenges and building client relationships—while leveraging proven technology that works.
About the Founder
Rural Tourism Network is led by Briana Konecke; originally from a small town in Pennsylvania, her years as a tour guide, teacher, and researcher revealed a simple truth: rural destinations succeed when they learn from one another. In 2025, her idea for a nationwide rural tourism network won NYU’s Hospitality Innovation Incubator top prize and became RTN’s launchpad.
Our Goals:
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RTN brings rural DMOs, tourism pros, and local champions into one space—so you can swap insights, line up joint campaigns, and build cross-county partnerships that stick.
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Our first step to building a go-to library is listening. We’re talking with tourism professionals to learn which templates, data, or training would move the needle for you. Tell us what you wish existed, your feedback will shape every resource we create.
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Sustainable tourism starts with the local community. We’re inviting rural residents to share how tourism impacts their daily lives and what “success” looks like in their community. Those insights will steer RTN’s tools and advocacy, keeping growth community-centered.
