The MRC was established in 1986 to use the global awareness of the Mississippi River to market the 10 states along the river, in their entirety, both domestically and to countries throughout the world.

Guided by the tourism offices of the 10 Mississippi River states, the MRC is a multi-state marketing program designed to bring domestic and international visitors to the region. It works with tour operators, media, and consumers to promote, stimulate, and foster travel to the 10 Mississippi River states.