Melissa Brown, CEO of ABEA, expressed her excitement about the new partnership, highlighting the tremendous potential for both organizations to advance the meetings and events industry. “We are delighted to partner with IAPCO,” she said. “Our collective efforts will provide our members with exceptional value, critical industry knowledge, and the ability to connect on a global scale. The more efficiently we can share experiences and knowledge across the globe, the easier it will be for our members to stay ahead of the latest developments.”The partnership between ABEA and IAPCO is formalized through a memorandum of understanding for the next three years. The agreement focuses on several key initiatives, each designed to enhance the value provided to members of both associations.
Membership Value-Add: Strengthening Relationships
One of the primary benefits of this collaboration is the increased opportunities for networking and business ventures. Through joint engagements, members of ABEA and IAPCO will gain access to industry trade shows like IMEX, IBTM, FIEXPO, and AIME. These meetups will foster new relationships and enable members to explore potential business opportunities on an international scale.
Knowledge-Sharing and Educational Collaboration
A central element of the partnership is a focus on knowledge sharing. Both organizations will work together to create and deliver educational content that supports the professional development of their members. Planned activities include panel discussions, joint educational sessions, and discounted access to specialized professional development courses. These initiatives aim to equip members with the skills and insights necessary to navigate the evolving meetings and events landscape.
Research and White Papers for Industry Insights
ABEA and IAPCO will also collaborate on creating white papers and conducting research to provide valuable insights into the meetings and events industry. These resources will benefit members by offering them access to the latest industry trends, best practices, and emerging opportunities. Sharing relevant research and studies will allow both organizations to enhance their members’ understanding of key developments in the sector.
A Shared Vision for Industry Growth
Sissi Lignou, President of IAPCO, emphasized the importance of collaboration between organizations that share common values. “As we navigate an ever-evolving industry landscape, fostering collaboration is crucial for the ongoing success and growth of the global meetings and events industry,” she said. She also expressed her gratitude to Sarah Markey-Hamm, past-president of IAPCO, and Melissa Brown for their efforts in facilitating this partnership.
This strategic partnership between ABEA and IAPCO marks a significant milestone for the global meetings and events industry. As both organizations continue to promote knowledge sharing, professional development, and collaborative growth, the future looks bright for the meetings and events sector worldwide.
Tags: ABEA and IAPCO, Melissa Brown, Australian Business Events Association (ABEA), Sissi Lignou, International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO)
