The Global Awards Gala is scheduled to take place on 12 October in Las Vegas, bringing together stakeholders from across the international business events ecosystem to recognise individuals and organisations contributing to the sector’s development.
Amy Calvert, President and CEO of EIC, said: “The Global Awards are one of the most meaningful moments in our year, offering an opportunity to recognise the people and organisations whose leadership continues to elevate our industry and expand its impact. At a time when the world is navigating increasing complexity, recognising those who bring people together with purpose, integrity and vision has never been more important. These leaders remind us that business events are not only economic drivers, but powerful catalysts for connection, understanding and progress.”
The Hall of Leaders, now in its 41st year, recognises individuals whose careers have had a long-term and transformative impact on the global business events sector. To date, more than 160 leaders have been inducted.
In addition to the Hall of Leaders, the Global Awards include several categories recognising contributions across leadership, innovation, and societal impact. These include the Pacesetter Award for emerging leaders demonstrating forward-thinking leadership, the EIC Social Impact Award for initiatives aligned with environmental, social, and governance priorities, and the Adaptation and Innovation Award recognising efforts to ensure the sector’s ongoing relevance.
Amy Calvert added: “The Global Awards reflect the very best of our global community and the collective impact we can achieve when we lead with purpose. Recognising excellence is not only about celebrating achievement—it is about inspiring continued innovation, elevating standards and reinforcing the vital role our industry plays in driving connection, collaboration and progress worldwide.”
Carina Bauer, CEO of IMEX Group and a 2024 Hall of Leaders inductee, chairs the 2026 EIC Global Awards Task Force. She said: “It is an honour to help lead this effort and to ensure we recognise a diverse and inspiring group of individuals and organisations whose contributions are advancing the global business events community.”
Nominations are open to individuals and organisations across all sectors and regions of the business events industry and will remain open until 8 May 2026.
Stephanie Glanzer, SVP and Chief Sales Officer of MGM Resorts, stated: “Partnering with EIC to host this wonderful event each year is such an honour for MGM, and we look forward to welcoming EIC members, award recipients and others in October. We always relish the opportunity to work with EIC to not only drive the meetings and events industry forward but also recognize and celebrate the leaders who make the magic happen every day.”
MGM Resorts International will host the 2026 Global Awards Gala. Table sales and registration are expected to open in May.
Tags: Stephanie Glanzer, MGM Resorts Carina Bauer, IMEX Group Amy Calvert Events Industry Council (EIC)
