Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has launched the Accelerator Circle, which gives Black Owners and Lodging Developers (BOLD) and Women Own the Room franchisees exclusive access to the company’s network of existing owners and industry experts through quarterly, small-group virtual meetups focused on fast-tracking hotel openings and maximizing performance.
From networking and education to operational support and complimentary services to help maximize revenue, BOLD and Women Own the Room offer tailored solutions to help break down the common barriers each group faces when pursuing hotel ownership, according to the company. Together, BOLD and Women Own the Room have resulted in more than 90 hotel deals with Black and women hoteliers with more than 20 hotels that are now open.
“Navigating hotel ownership isn’t easy, with many owners facing the same challenges over and over,” said Galen Barrett, VP, strategic franchise initiatives, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts. “Wyndham’s Accelerator Circle connects a dynamic community for Black and women entrepreneurs who haven’t always had the support of our industry. It’s a space for owners to exchange knowledge, learn from seasoned pros, and the expected result? A more diverse industry with a new wave of empowered, savvy owners.”
In line with its Owner First approach to franchising, Accelerator Circle sessions will focus on topics that come directly from franchisees, including securing financing, hotel renovations, development and operations, among others. Sessions will be led by industry professionals—spanning Wyndham team members, industry experts and owner peers—facilitating strategic, peer-to-peer discussions and providing insights focused on the real-time concerns owners face today.
Kicking off the series for Accelerator Circle this fall, WaterWalk CEO Mimi Oliver will lead a discussion focused on optimizing relationships with franchisors. During her tenure, she has overseen the development, opening and operations for numerous hotels, raised more than $100 million in equity for the company, and most recently, joined forces with Wyndham as the company’s 25th brand, WaterWalk Extended Stay by Wyndham. She also witnessed the success of her late grandfather, Jack DeBoer, the extended-stay pioneer who led the way for the segment.
“Hotel ownership is challenging, and I’ve seen firsthand how valuable it is to have a circle of supporters to help navigate those difficulties and drive success,” said Oliver. “I was drawn to Wyndham because of their dedication to increasing diversity in hospitality, and Accelerator Circle is one meaningful way I can give back to inspire future generations—especially those who might not see a clear path—to join our fantastic industry.”
Future sessions will be hosted by other industry professionals with topics spanning fundraising, construction and renovation, creating an optimal staffing model and more.