SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- The Syracuse and Onondaga County Convention and Visitors Bureau is claiming something of an elite status. It's won accreditation as a Destination Marketing Organization, one of only 101 worldwide.

The group, which is part of the local chamber of commerce, has been struggling to increase its share of tourism spending. From this, the county gets about three quarters of a billion dollars a year.

The head of the bureau says it won't be easy, but he hopes to see that total rise.

"They know the cooperation has to be there for us to really exceed the incredible competition that's out in the marketplace, these days. We've got to work together. We've got to make a difference. We've really got to push our innovation and our marketing outreach to the fullest," said David Holder with the Convention and Visitor Bureau.

The group must seek accreditation again in 2013.