RED ROOF JUST launched a new diversity and inclusion program, RIDE with Red Roof. The program will support growth and business expansion for hotel owners and franchisees from underrepresented groups.
RIDE with Red Roof will give participants access to capital, educational resources and the connections needed to build a strong network of industry partners, according to the company. It will reduce the barriers to funding, provide training and create relationships with lenders.
“RIDE with Red Roof is providing opportunities and support to the hoteliers who need it most,” said Matthew Hostetler, chief development officer at Red Roof. “We are proud to launch this innovative program, which will unite industry partners to work to open the doors of opportunity and inclusion. Through RIDE, entrepreneurs will have an opportunity to gain access and advantage in the competitive hotel franchising space, meeting the money behind the industry, forging lifelong connections and receiving advice and training from the best in the business community. We cannot wait to share the program’s successes with the industry.”
Lina Patel, Red Roof’s director of strategic franchise initiatives, said her own career is an example of the challenges faced by women and minorities in the hospitality industry.
“[I started] as an Asian American woman franchisee who needed to break through industry barriers to achieve success,” Patel said. “I met many along with way who were instrumental to progress - through RIDE, Red Roof will help entrepreneurs from all underrepresented communities build a similar foundation of success in the hospitality industry by targeting our support and leverage where it matters most.”
Other hotel companies have launched similar programs. On July 18, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts hosted its second Black Owners and Lodging Developers Symposium and BOLD Bootcamp on July 20 that provide tools and resources for Black entrepreneurs and individuals interested in hotel ownership.
Wyndham also offers its Women Own the Room program to promote women ownership of hotels. In March, Choice Hotels International launched its HERtels by Choice initiative.
Email MHostetler@redroof.com or LPatel@redroof.com for more information on the RIDE with Red Roof program.
Opened in 2024, the Signia by Hilton Atlanta near Mercedes Benz Stadium, Georgia World Congress Center and State Farm Arena, will begin hosting the Hunter Hotel Conference next year.
Speaking on a panel at the Hunter Hotel Conference are, from left, Vision Hospitality President and CEO Mitch Patel; Greg Friedman, managing principal and CEO of Peachtree Group; and Robert Webster, vice chairman at CBRE.
Rep. Aaron Bean delivers keynote addressPhoto credit: AAHOA