The Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island (TIAPEI) was officially formed in 1980. Industry professionals felt there was a great need to have a provincial organization, which could represent all geographical regions and sectors within the tourism industry. The newly formed organization would provide programs and projects to benefit the entire tourism industry, not just TIAPEI members.

Each of the smaller regionally based tourism associations would fit under the umbrella of TIAPEI and would have a seat on the TIAPEI Board of Directors. Today, the Board of Directors is comprised of thirty-two seats representing all industry sectors. While the Board of Directors meets quarterly, a seven member Executive Committee meets on a monthly basis.