Tourism offers economic growth opportunities for Skagit County

Economic development can take many forms, and for Economic Development Week, May May 4-8, we’ll be sharing some of the ways in which EDASC applies economic development practices to the needs of businesses and the community.

Tourism is an important part of the economic development landscape in Skagit County.

EDASC has been among the early supporters of creating a destination marketing organization for the county, helping organize the Tourism Promotion Area agreement required to form the Skagit Tourism Bureau and serving as the Bureau’s fiscal sponsor in its early stages. EDASC CEO John Sternlicht is a member of the Bureau’s board of directors and served as its first Chair.

Under the leadership of Kristen Keltz since 2024, the Skagit Tourism Bureau has made significant strides in placing Skagit County on the map for tourists from around the state and around the world. 

The economic impact of those visitors drives revenue, jobs and growth in Skagit County. In 2024, Skagit County received 3.2 million visitors, with overnight spending valued at $296 million, a 10% increase over 2023. 

Sectors impacted by tourism include lodging, food and beverage, recreation, retail, and transportation. And total employment in tourism and hospitality-related jobs has increased beyond pre-pandemic levels.

One statistic that Keltz likes to point to is tax savings per household. In 2024, Skagit County taxpayers paid an average of $673 less in taxes thanks to income from visitor spending.

Other ways in which the work of the tourism bureau positively affects the Skagit economy includes its work with Washington Filmworks to promote the county as a film-friendly location, opening new avenues for economic growth. Workforce development is also a priority, as the organization works with partners to support training and career development in tourism and hospitality.

The Skagit Valley Sports Commission, an arm of the tourism bureau, focuses on drawing tournaments, camps and competitions to the region, which helps to bolster overnight stays and other hospitality-related spending during less busy shoulder seasons.