A new report that included participation by Visit Mesa showed a “strong connection” between promotion efforts and economic development, according to Destinations International.

Destinations Promotion: A catalyst for Community Vitality included information provided by Visit Mesa, which has a goal “to draw people here for that important initial trip that will then help fuel Mesa’s economy and create a place where residents prosper,” Marc Garcia, president and CEO of Visit Mesa, stated in a release.

“Promoting Mesa to leisure and business visitors sparks a chain reaction of economic development. Regardless of whether people are thinking about a place to live or go to school or open a business, no one makes that decision without first making a visit.”

The survey research team met with several local officials, including Mesa Mayor John Giles, who pointed out that Visit Mesa “is working to extend and raise the brand of the city even beyond the city limits, which is a major part of the organization’s ‘Limitless’ campaign," according to the release.

“Destination branding is not only important for attracting visitors, talent and investment but also for building community pride. We are working together to ensure Mesa is an accessible and inclusive travel destination and to attract amenities that serve residents and draw visitors from across the nation and around the world,” Giles said.

The report highlighted other Visit Mesa programs as “best practices in the areas of workforce development, economic development and community initiatives.”