Wyndham Launches Program to Boost Diversity in Hotel Ownership

07.10.2024 - 19:21 / skift.com / Sean Oneill

Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, the world’s largest hotel franchisor, unveiled a new program Monday to boost diversity in hotel ownership.

The initiative, dubbed Accelerator Circle, aims to provide networking and mentorship opportunities for Black and women entrepreneurs who want to become thriving hotel developers.

Why it matters: Less than 2% of hotel owners are Black, and less than 10% are women, highlighting a significant diversity gap in the industry.

Mimi Oliver, CEO of WaterWalk, which Wyndham acquired earlier this year, will lead the first Accelerator Circle session this fall. Oliver brings significant industry experience to the role, having overseen the development and operations of numerous hotels and raised more than $100 million in equity for the brand.

“Throughout my career in the past, I’ve had some really incredible mentors and frankly, I don’t know if I’d be where I am currently without them,” Oliver said. 

When asked for her high-level advice for potential women and Black hoteliers, Oliver urged them to speak up.

“Use your voice,” she said. “Be that squeaky wheel. Really enhance those relationships. Focus on building those partnerships.”

The Accelerator Circle program will let Black and women entrepreneurs ask nitty gritty questions.

“For example, if an owner is in the development phase and needs to get approvals from the city, that can be a complex process, and if you’re having an issue with it, this peer network can help connect you with someone who has already been through a similar process,” Oliver said.

As the world’s largest hotel franchisor, with approximately 9,200 hotels across over 95 countries, Wyndham’s initiative could have a far reach.

What’s next: Wyndham will monitor engagement and community growth as key indicators of the program’s success, with expectations of a “multiplier effect” as participants spread awareness within their communities.