MCLEAN, Va. – In an effort to help create opportunity for people looking to realize the dream of owning or growing their own business, Hilton has announced the creation of “Unlocking Doors,” a program designed to support new and aspiring hoteliers on their journey to hotel ownership.

Launching this week at the Americas Lodging Investment Summit (ALIS), Unlocking Doors will create meaningful pathways to hotel ownership for entrepreneurs who are new to the industry and those who have traditionally faced hurdles with access to affordable capital. Unlocking Doors will provide support through educational programs, networking opportunities and access to affordable capital, which many entrepreneurs cite as the biggest barrier to entry into the industry.

To provide that access to capital, Unlocking Doors will feature an industry-first partnership with Bridge, a digital platform by Foro Holdings that connects small and medium-sized businesses with more than 75 lenders across the U.S. This program is a first-of-its-kind in the hospitality industry, providing existing and potential hotel owners with affordable financing opportunities through a diversified group of lenders. Hilton Supply Management (HSM) will also offer access to the Bridge platform to all U.S.-based suppliers, including small and medium-sized businesses looking to expand and grow their operations.

The hospitality industry is a powerful engine of opportunity for entrepreneurs who dream of owning and growing their own businesses, as well as creating jobs in their communities. The Unlocking Doors program provides a long-needed solution in making that opportunity attainable for all through education, access to capital and networking, and continues to support our efforts to build a portfolio of hotels around the world that meet guests’ needs anywhere they want to travel. Kevin Jacobs, CFO and president, global development, Hilton
Bridge couldn’t be more excited to participate in Hilton’s Unlocking Doors initiative. By using the Bridge marketplace, these entrepreneurs can not only access capital in a new and efficient way, but also compare options and connect with the best capital source to meet their needs. Rohit Mathur, CEO, Bridge

For more information on Hilton’s ownership initiatives, please visit www.hilton.com/en/corporate/development.

About Hilton

Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 22 world-class brands comprising nearly 7,400 properties and more than 1.1 million rooms, in 124 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World's Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices for seven consecutive years. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 173 million members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit stories.hilton.com for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. 

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