IHG launches program to promote growth for diverse hotel owners in U.S., Canada

IHG Hotels & Resorts has launched IHG LIFT, a program designed to prioritize growth for diverse hotel owners in the United States and Canada.

IHG said in its announcement that it will commit $30 million to the program over the next half decade. The program will focus on growth and support hotel development for owners who are part of historically under-represented groups within the hospitality sphere with an aim to continue to diversify the IHG hotel owner community.

“As our industry grows, we need to keep our focus on enabling more success for our diverse ownership base,” said Julienne Smith, chief development officer for the Americas at IHG.

“Barriers such as a lack of access to capital and the right networks put such owners at a disadvantage,” Smith continued. “The IHG LIFT program is specifically designed to help ease the path to ownership and ultimately support owners. Diversifying ownership is not only better for IHG, it also lifts up our entire industry.”

The program will encompass access to capital, support and additional assistance “along the hotel life cycle” for qualifying owners. 

Jyota Sarolia, the CEO of Ellis Hospitality and the owner of IHG Hotels in California, said that IHG LIFT is important for the hotel industry.

“These efforts help grow our community of owners, which should be as diverse as the guests we serve every day,” Sarolia said. “IHG’s commitment and focus to make a difference certainly resonates with me as an owner.”

The new program adds to efforts by others in the industry and furthers IHG's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, the company said, pointing to efforts including working with design, architectural and construction firms with DEI commitments and also increasing diverse suppliers as part of its EPIC Supplier Diversity Program.