“No barriers, no fees”: Introducing ONVIGO, Canada's newest host agency

Canada’s travel industry has a new host agency, and after months of sharing sneak peeks on social media, the company has officially launched.

ONVIGO, which positions itself as a “unique platform” for new-to-industry participants, as well as experienced travel advisors, marked its opening with a press release issued Wednesday (March 6).

The concept is the brainchild of Chippy Jegathesan, CEO of Markham, ON-based Voyzant Inc., a leading travel consolidator with enterprises in other niche markets, including Holidays by Voyzant and Hotels by Voyzant.

ONVIGO is distinguishing itself through a range of services, including a no-barriers, no-fees approach, personalized support, and the latest technology.

The host agency aims to “empower members with the tools, knowledge, and industry support needed to thrive in the competitive travel sector,” said Angela Bokma, ONVIGO’s director of marketing, in an email to PAX.

“The host agency is not just a business venture; it represents a natural evolution in Chippy's strategic vision for the travel industry,” Bokma wrote. “It's a community fostering inclusivity and actively contributing to the industry's evolution. Chippy envisions the future of travel resting in the hands of knowledgeable advisors who can book the world for their clients.”

The Canadian host agency space is already pretty crowded, and since the pandemic, the travel industry, in general, has faced unprecedented challenges.

But with a focus on recruiting new-to-industry advisors, ONVIGO says it is at “the forefront of the industry's revival by creating a community that welcomes and embraces travel professionals from all backgrounds and experience.”

"At ONVIGO, we believe that there has never been a better time to join the travel industry," said Shean Carmichael, director of operations at ONVIGO, in the news release.

(In the host agency universe, Carmichael is widely known for his past work at The Travel Agent Next Door).

"We are passionate about supporting travel advisors every step of the way, whether they are just starting out or looking to take their business to the next level,” Carmichael stated. “Our personalized approach ensures that each agent receives the assistance they need to achieve their goals."

“No barriers, no fees”

The host agency says it stands out by offering all kinds of services that differentiate itself from others in the industry.

"ONVIGO is focused on creating a barrier free path for everyone who wants the opportunity to find a rewarding career in travel. With dedicated support, training, tools and technology, lucrative commission structure and our no fees approach, ONVIGO puts the independent travel advisor first,” the company says.

The host agency says it takes care of time-consuming invoicing and commission chasing tasks, on behalf of its members, so agents can receive payments more quickly and focus their time on selling travel.

It handles flight and schedule changes (in-house air consolidation), while also promising the latest technology – “cutting-edge tools and automation solutions” that streamline operations, enhance customer service and maximize business potential.

There’s also an emphasis on training. The team offers a free two-week program that’s specifically designed to support people who are new to the travel industry.

The free program also supports experienced agents in moving their business to a new host agency.

In addition to offering wellness services, ONVIGO’s team of industry experts promise personalized and individualized support to every advisor in the network.

The company is also rooted in inclusivity, fostering a welcoming and inclusive community that embraces diversity.

“By prioritizing an environment of respect and understanding, ONVIGO strives to create opportunities for all travel professionals to thrive and succeed,” the company says.

ONVIGO adds that it is committed to empowering travel advisors with the tools and knowledge they need as the travel industry evolves.

“This includes access to a wide range of travel suppliers, technology solutions, and marketing support,” the company says.

To learn more, click here.

This is a developing story.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.