The Looking Forward Journal
Platform updates, case studies, lessons learned, and what's coming next

What 255 DMOs Are Spending On in 2026
We analyzed 500+ live tourism RFPs from destination organizations worldwide. Here's what the data reveals about where DMOs are directing their marketing budgets in 2026 — and what it means for agencies chasing travel and tourism contracts.

Big ideas are taking shape in the latest Sigmund on the Syllabus cohort.
Some of the most exciting ideas in tourism are not coming from boardrooms or pitch competitions. They are coming from classrooms.

See What We've Built
From AI-powered idea development to real-world academic programs, Sigmund has evolved into a living platform for collaboration in travel and tourism. Here's what's now live.

One Year and 1,000+ Business Opportunities Shared
Sigmund’s AI-powered RFP HUB surpasses 1,000 tourism opportunities worldwide.

Nothing Mentioned, Nothing Gained: Why Sharing Your Ideas Is the Key to Success
Why sharing ideas is the key to real progress.

UCT x Sigmund Case Study Program
Honors students collaborate with founders on real tourism ventures.

The Sigmund Project Celebrates Three Years of Innovation and Growth
Celebrating three years of progress and collaboration.

BIG NEWS: Introducing Sigmund's New A.I.-Powered Travel & Tourism RFP HUB
Launch of Sigmund’s AI-powered RFP HUB.

CASE STUDY: Academic Partnership with Hong Kong Polytechnic University
How academic research helped Aarya Village Travel break into the Chinese luxury market.

The Essential Guide to Tourism RFPs: Unlocking New Opportunities in the Travel Industry
A practical guide to understanding and winning tourism RFPs.

What Books The SigmundVerse Is Reading Right Now
Recommended reads from the SigmundVerse.

Alan Elliott speaks at Indonesia's first “tourpreneur” campus
Speaking on tourism tech and sustainability in Bali.

Reflections from the WTTC Global Summit 2023: The Power of Collaboration in Travel & Tourism
Insights from the WTTC Global Summit in Rwanda.

Lessons from Azerbaijan with Alan Elliott
Reflections on authenticity and destination storytelling.
