By Laura Lee Blake, ESQ., President & CEO

In a fast-evolving hospitality landscape, innovation is key to staying ahead. Indeed, a popular adage is that one must “innovate or die.” At AAHOA, we are committed to delivering cutting edge resources and advocacy that drive success for our 20,000+ members. Here are five ways we will be leading with innovation in 2025 to support our owners:
Game-Changing Education
AAHOA’s educational programs are designed to keep members at the forefront of industry knowledge. Our Certificate in Hotel Ownership (CHO) Program has long been recognized as a gold standard in hospitality education. This year, AAHOA is designing new opportunities to equip hoteliers with essential skills for today’s market. From webinars on emerging trends to the HYPE “tech talk” session and AAHOACON world-class education sessions, members gain insights that drive profitability and operational excellence.
Technology That Connects and Informs
Innovation means meeting members where they are. Through the soon-to-be-released AAHOA App and online dashboards, we will provide real time access to advocacy updates, event details, and key resources. This tech driven approach enhances engagement and ensures seamless communication, keeping members informed and connected around the clock.
Advocacy That Moves the Needle
AAHOA harnesses innovation to amplify member voices at the federal and state levels. From championing the Loans in Our Neighborhoods (LIONs) Act to promoting the Credit Card Competition Act and addressing labor issues, we leverage technology and data to infl uence policymakers. Our proactive stance ensures that legislative wins directly benefi t hotel owners nationwide.
Curated Networking for Growth
Building connections is vital to business growth. AAHOA’s Hotel Owners Conferences & Trade Shows, in-person Town Halls, and specialty initiatives like HerOwnership and HYPE create customized opportunities for networking and mentorship. By fostering new and inclusive spaces for collaboration, we empower members to share best practices and build stronger industry ties.
Vendor Partnerships that Deliver
Innovation also means providing members with tangible savings and operational tools. Through AAHOA’s Club Blue Industry Partner program, members access exclusive discounts and partnerships with top-tier vendors. With emerging alliances, we will drive efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance guest experiences, giving AAHOA Members a competitive edge. At AAHOA, innovation is not just a buzzword – it is a commitment to our members’ success. We continuously adapt and evolve to meet the changing needs of the hospitality industry, ensuring that our 20,000+ members are equipped with the tools, resources, and connections needed to thrive in a competitive market. As the landscape shifts, AAHOA will continue to deliver bold, innovative solutions that drive growth and empower hotel owners.
This brand new edition of Today’s Hotelier is just one more example of how we’re revisiting member benefits and elevating our offerings. We hope you enjoy it.
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