IMEX, an Events Industry Council Corporate Member and Strategic Partner, has released a new white paper examining how business events can help cities, regions and nations attract talent, investment and […]
New IMEX White Paper Explores the Strategic Role of Business Events in Place Leadership Read Post »
Leadership is often associated with a title, a position or a moment of visible achievement. But throughout my career, I have come to believe that leadership is better understood as
Leadership Is a Practice, Not a Position Read Post »
Amy Calvert, President and CEO of the Events Industry Council, recently sat down with Melvin Tennant, CAE, President and CEO of Meet Minneapolis, as part of EIC’s new Lessons in
WASHINGTON, DC, USA (9 July 2026) — Today, the Events Industry Council (EIC), a global federation of Associations and Corporations representing the business events industry, announced the recipients of its
EIC Announces 2026 Hall of Leaders and Global Awards Recipients Read Post »
It is hard to believe we are already halfway through calendar year 2026. As we turn our attention to the second half of the year, as well as planning for
A Mid-Year Note from Amy Calvert Read Post »
The first thing experienced event professionals like myself will tell you when this topic comes up is that they’ve always had a rain plan. The outdoor evening event with the
The Calendar Is Breaking: What Climate Change Is Actually Doing to Event Planning Read Post »
Liz Lathan, CMP, is an experiential strategist, community builder and co-founder of Club Ichi, a private membership community for B2B event marketers. A former corporate event leader with more than 20 years of experience at companies including Dell and IBM, she also leads The Community Factory, helping organisations create human-centred event experiences that spark meaningful connection and year-round engagement.
It is hard to imagine we are already halfway through the 2026 calendar year. As we turn our attention to the second half of 2026 and begin planning for 2027,
A Note from EIC President and CEO Amy Calvert Read Post »
WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S.A. (23 June 2026) — The Events Industry Council (EIC), the global voice of the business events industry on advocacy, research, professional recognition and standards, today released the Q1
The Events Industry Council (EIC) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2026 CMP Scholarship Programme, recognising five business events professionals who are pursuing the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)
Events Industry Council Announces Recipients of the 2026 CMP Scholarship Programme Read Post »
As the 2026 Global Economic Significance of Business Events Study has now confirmed, our industry is one of the most powerful economic and societal forces in the world. The research
Beyond Economic Impact: Why It’s Time We Tell a Stronger Story About Business Events Read Post »
With more than 20 years in the events industry, Deanna Griffith-House brings to the table a rich background in complex project management, honed through years of orchestrating high-profile events on a global scale. Her expertise extends beyond mere logistics, encompassing event portfolio strategy and implementation with a meticulous eye for detail. Her strategic acumen is matched only by the ability to conceptualize innovative experiences that captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
The future of the global business events industry took centre stage at the Events Industry Council’s Global Meetings Industry Day programme, held at La Maison Française at the Embassy of
The Events Industry Council (EIC), in collaboration with the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC), today announced the next phase of its targeted refinement of the Sustainable Event Standards (SES)—marking a
EIC and JMIC Advance Next Phase of Sustainable Event Standards Refinement Read Post »
New global research with Oxford Economics finds business events generated US$1.3 trillion in direct spending and supported US$1.8 trillion in total GDP worldwide in 2025 The Events Industry Council
EIC Releases 2026 Global Economic Significance of Business Events Executive Summary Read Post »
Engage is a monthly newsletter created to help keep EIC Members up-to-speed and informed about all EIC activities. April 2026 February/March 2026 October/November 2025 July/August 2025
Engage Newsletters Read Post »
I feel like I’ve seen more risk for events in the past five years than in the previous 26 years of my career. Risk is not new. Events have always
Events Are Facing Two Kinds of Risk. Most Teams Are Only Planning for One Read Post »
Beth Surmont is an event strategist who works with associations to reimagine their events. With experience in both corporate and non-profit events, and as the Head of Strategy & Design for 360 Live Media, Beth is a leading designer of the next era of events.
On 14 April 2026, the Events Industry Council (EIC) officially welcomed 72 Certified Meeting Professionals (CMPs) and Emeritus CMPs into the 2026 class of the distinguished CMP Fellows Programme. The
EIC Welcomes 2026 Class of CMP Fellows in Global Virtual Celebration Read Post »
Editor’s Note: This article continues the Events Industry Council’s ongoing Futures Landscape Series, exploring the macro forces shaping the global business events industry, as identified in the EIC Futures Landscape Study 2025.
A Sector Defined by Resilience: A Global View of Travel and Tourism in a Disrupted World Read Post »
The Events Industry Council (EIC) today released the latest edition of its Quarterly Global Business Events Barometer, revealing continued recovery and long-term confidence across the global business events industry, even
The Events Industry Council (EIC), the global voice of the business events industry on advocacy, research, professional recognition and standards, today announced that nominations are now open for the 2026
Nominations Open for Hall of Leaders and 2026 EIC Global Awards Read Post »
As meeting professionals, we often talk about inclusion in aspirational language. We want our events to be more welcoming and accessible. Yet in today’s environment, even the word “inclusion” can
Designing for Belonging: Five Practical Shifts That Make Meetings More Inclusive Read Post »
As sustainability becomes a defining priority for the global business events industry, destinations around the world are investing in education, standards and collaboration to build more responsible event ecosystems. One
As the global business events sector responds to rising sustainability expectations, venues are increasingly challenged to address one of the sectors’ most persistent blind spots: operational waste and on-site energy
WASHINGTON, D.C. / BRUSSELS — (26 March 2026) — The Events Industry Council (EIC), in collaboration with the Joint Meetings Industry Council (JMIC), has launched a targeted refinement of the
Several years ago at an industry conference, a young professional waited quietly until the room cleared after a panel discussion. When he finally approached, he didn’t ask for a business
Walking in the Same Direction: A Question for the Tourism Industry Read Post »
As CEO of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals, Jason Dunn, Sr. leads initiatives to advance diversity and inclusion within the tourism industry. His work emphasizes collaboration and community empowerment, leveraging expertise in event planning to create opportunities that foster growth and representation.
WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S.A. (24 March 2026) The Events Industry Council (EIC) today announced the launch of Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) 2026 and advocacy framework, a worldwide year-round initiative that
The Events Industry Council (EIC) and the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) have partnered to deliver the CEM: Sustainable Event Professional Certificate (SEPC). A powerful example of how industry
WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S.A. (18 March 2026) — The Events Industry Council (EIC), the global voice of the business events industry on advocacy, research, professional recognition and standards, today announced the launch
EIC Launches Global Survey for Economic Significance of Business Events Study Read Post »
The Futures Landscape Study 2025 identifies Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) as a key force shaping the industry’s future. Increasingly, belonging is becoming an operational outcome of well-designed events. As
Belonging By Design: Operationalizing DEI Across the Event Lifecycle Read Post »
A member of EIC’s Sustainability and Social Impact Committee, Erika Gonzalez is a strategy and operations professional with experience spanning sustainability implementation, hospitality, food systems, cross-functional project management, and organizational operations. With roots in hospitality management and sustainable tourism, she brings a people-centered approach to translating complex priorities into practical, scalable solutions.
When the world gathers for the Olympic Games, the spotlight is on athletes — but behind the scenes, thousands of event professionals are working around the clock to make the
Behind the Scenes at the Olympics: A Conversation with Sina Bünte, CMP, DES Read Post »
For more than thirty years, I have lived and worked across four continents. This was never part of a carefully designed career plan. I did not set out to become
DEI as a Driver of Innovation: What 30 Years Across 4 Continents Taught Me Read Post »
Award-winning hospitality industry leader Benoit Sauvage, DMCP, CMP Fellow, CITP, is the Founder and CEO of Connect DMC, a leading Destination Management Company operating in the Caribbean, Central America and Mexico. He is also the Founder and CEO of Hospitality Sustainability Revolution (HSR), a global consulting firm supporting hospitality stakeholders in their sustainability journey.
Born in Paris, France, Benoit has lived and worked across 4 continents over the past 30 years. He brings more than 25 years of experience delivering high-end, complex destination services to clients worldwide, with a strong focus on creativity, attention to detail, community engagement, and sustainable practices.
Editor’s Note: This article continues the Events Industry Council’s ongoing Futures Landscape Series, exploring the macro forces shaping the global business events industry, as identified in the EIC Futures Landscape Study 2025.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Expanding Who Gets to Be in the Room Read Post »
When thinking about the mobility landscape as it pertains to business events, you are faced with an astonishing web of separate but connected industries such as air transport and ground
Understanding the Evolving Mobility Landscape for Business Events Read Post »
Marcus Eng, CMP Fellow, DES, is the Senior Director of Meeting Operations at the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), a trade association representing more than 1,500 public and private sector organizations involved in public transit in the U.S. and Canada. As part of APTA’s meetings team, Marcus helps produce more than 15 major face-to-face meetings throughout the country, including APTA’s annual meeting and expo, which attracts more than 10,000 attendees.
In a moment when organisations are rethinking how and why they bring people together, destinations that can deliver operational excellence, cultural richness, and future-ready infrastructure have become increasingly valuable. Catalonia
Catalonia: A World-Leading Destination for Business Events of Every Size Read Post »
Mobility has always been foundational to the business events industry. The ability for people to cross borders, share knowledge, and build relationships in person is core to the sector’s value
This Spotlight is part of an ongoing series highlighting EIC Association and Corporate Members and the important work they are doing to serve our shared industry.
EIC Member Spotlight: IAEE Read Post »
Editor’s Note: This article continues the Events Industry Council’s ongoing Futures Landscape Series, exploring the macro forces shaping the global business events industry, as identified in the EIC Futures Landscape
Navigating a More Complex World: Mobility and the Future of Business Events Read Post »
This Events Industry Council webinar convened sustainability leaders from across the global business events ecosystem to explore how organisations can maintain momentum on climate action amid economic pressure, regulatory complexity,
Recalibrating Resources to Face Challenges While Honouring Climate Commitments Read Post »
The Events Industry Council (EIC) has announced the 2026 class of the CMP Fellows Programme, welcoming 72 distinguished Certified Meeting Professionals (CMPs) and Emeritus CMPs whose careers reflect sustained leadership,
CMP Fellows Programme Announces 2026 Class Read Post »
In a world shaped by a desire for connection, evolving work patterns and rising expectations around purpose, one fundamental truth remains: gathering in person matters. Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report Special Sectionoffers
Why We Gather: Hilton’s 2026 Trends Reinforce the Enduring Value of Business Events Read Post »
WASHINGTON, D.C., U.S.A. (29 January 2026) — The Events Industry Council (EIC), the global voice of the business events industry on advocacy, research, professional recognition and standards, today announced the
As event professionals, we’re navigating an increasingly unpredictable world — political and economic turbulence, climate driven disruptions, heightened social expectations, and accelerating regulatory pressure. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices
Why ESG Adoption Matters for Our Industry Read Post »
The ESG acronym has moved well beyond buzzword status in our industry. I believe it is important — as much as possible — to keep the words of environment, social
Advancing Events Through the Environmental, Social and Governance Framework. Read Post »
Gwendal Castellan manages Tourism Vancouver’s sustainable destination development program. At Destination Vancouver he uses the wholistic approach to building a tourism industry that is centred in the purpose of transforming communities and visitors through the power of travel. Gwendal is also the 2026 Chair of the EIC Sustainability and Social Impact Committee.
This Spotlight is part of an ongoing series highlighting EIC Association and Corporate Members and the important work they are doing to serve our shared industry.
EIC Member Spotlight: Marina Bay Sands Read Post »
If there’s one acronym dominating conversations in our industry right now, it’s ESG—Environmental, Social, and Governance. What started as a sustainability conversation has evolved into a holistic framework that touches every aspect of event planning. It’s no longer about checking a box; it’s about creating experiences that reflect values, deliver measurable impact, and foster lasting change.
ESG: The Next Chapter in Event Design Read Post »
Meredith Flannagan, CMP Fellow, CMM, is an accomplished meetings and events leader with more than 20 years of experience delivering high-impact corporate and experiential events across global organisations. She currently serves as Director of Meetings & Events at Gensler and is an active member of EIC’s Sustainability and Social Impact Committee, where she helps advance inclusive and sustainable event practices worldwide.
WASHINGTON, DC, USA (11 January 2026) — The Events Industry Council (EIC), the global voice of the business events industry on advocacy, research, professional recognition and standards, today announced the election
EIC Announces 2026 Board of Directors Read Post »
Editor’s Note: This article continues the Events Industry Council’s ongoing Futures Landscape Series, exploring the macro forces shaping the global business events industry, as identified in EIC’s 2025 Futures Landscape Study.
ESG in Focus: Why Purpose, Performance and Accountability Now Go Hand in Hand Read Post »
This Spotlight is part of an ongoing series highlighting EIC Association and Corporate Members and the important work they are doing to serve our shared industry.
EIC Member Spotlight: Maritz Read Post »
In 2022, ConferenceDirect committed, through the SME Climate Hub, to reducing our carbon footprint by 30% by 2030. As one of the larger companies in the meetings industry, we recognized
Evolving the Business Model: How Sustainability Is Reshaping the Meetings Industry Read Post »
With more than 35 years of leadership experience in the hospitality industry, Larry Hanson serves as Chief Marketing & Sustainability Officer at ConferenceDirect. In this multifaceted role, he oversees marketing strategy, recruiting, sustainability initiatives, and conference management operations.
Throughout his career, Larry has led teams, managed complex budgets, and inspired creativity across diverse projects. Passionate about sustainability both personally and professionally, he champions responsible practices that drive long-term impact both for ConferenceDirect and their customers. A lifelong learner, Larry thrives in the ever-evolving world of hospitality and events and looks forward to collaborating with industry peers to shape a more sustainable future.
This Spotlight is part of an ongoing series highlighting EIC Association and Corporate Members and the important work they are doing to serve our shared industry.
Member Spotlight: International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Read Post »
The global business events community gathered in October at the Bellagio Resort & Casino in Las Vegas to celebrate the 2025 EIC Global Awards, honouring individuals and organisations whose leadership,
Celebrating Excellence: Highlights from the 2025 EIC Global Awards Read Post »
In an era where environmental responsibility has become a critical consideration in every sector, the global business events industry is no exception. With a large-scale impact on resources, energy consumption, waste, and carbon emissions, the events industry bears a significant responsibility in ensuring its operations align with sustainability principles.
Championing Sustainability in the Global Business Events Industry Read Post »
We’ve all heard it before: “This event wasn’t fully accessible.” But do we truly understand what accessibility means? For many, accessibility first brings to mind physical features—ramps, elevators, or restrooms
Rethinking Accessibility at Events Read Post »
Elena Fis holds a Sustainable Event Professional Certificate and has been a member of the EIC Sustainability and Social Impact Committee since 2024. She is also collaborating with IAPCO and became a member of IAPCO EDI and sustainability committee consulting on various initiatives and supporting Meetings and events industry in this area.
Elena been part of the Kenes Group for more than a decade. In 2023 she was promoted to Kenes Sustainability Officer and in November 2024 was named a global Sustainability Manager in the company. She had taken on a bigger task at hand: to develop Kenes Group’s internal and external sustainability policies, develop sustainability strategies for Kenes clients and PCO’s original events, support Kenes association clients, implement the processes and practices that will include gender equality, responsible consumption and production, quality education and good health and well-being.
By Amy Calvert, EIC President and CEO As we reflect on the 40th Anniversary of the Hall of Leaders recognition, an inspiring Global Awards ceremony and the extraordinary energy of
EIC Introduces Futures Landscape Series Read Post »
WASHINGTON, DC, USA (7 October 2025) — The Events Industry Council (EIC), the global voice of the business events industry, today released its Global Events Barometer for 2025 Q2. The findings
The team at Marina Bay Sands shares strategies for making sustainability and wellness a priority. Across the global business events industry, sustainability has irrevocably become top-of-mind for every destination, venue,
Prioritising Sustainability and Wellness in the Events Industry Read Post »
The business events industry is at a pivotal moment where sustainability is no longer optional—it’s essential. Today’s event organisers are rethinking every aspect of event design to integrate environmental responsibility
Learning by Example: First-Hand Account from Sustainability Innovators Read Post »
Human trafficking is a systemic problem that must be stopped. It is imperative that the business events industry does everything it can to raise awareness and leverage our collective power to do our part in the fight against human trafficking.
Human Trafficking Awareness Around the World Read Post »
Mary-Ann Urbanovich, MS, CMP Fellow, CMP-HC: Leading with Purpose, Knowledge, and Impact This month, we shine a spotlight on one of the industry’s most seasoned professionals, Mary-Ann Urbanovich, MS, CMP Fellow,
CMP Spotlight Interview: Mary-Ann Urbanovich Read Post »
Richard Allchild, the UK-based Head of Sales North America for IMEX Group and Vice Chair of Business Development for the MPI Foundation Global Board of Trustees, has long recognized the
Richard Allchild, CMP on the Power of the Certification and What’s Ahead at IMEX America Read Post »
This Spotlight is part of an ongoing series highlighting EIC Association and Corporate Members and the important work they are doing to serve our shared industry.
Member Spotlight: mci group Read Post »
Report also highlights growing concern about geopolitical conflicts, ongoing policy shifts and the impact tariffs may have on the industry. WASHINGTON, DC, USA (27 June 2025) — Today, the Events
Events Industry Council crossed a significant milestone last week with the completion of the CMP Beta Exam — one of the final steps in a years-long project to update the
CMP Exam Beta Testing Period Concludes, Testing Resumes in August Read Post »
In a groundbreaking move to nurture the next generation of business events professionals, Marina Bay Sands (MBS) has partnered with the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) to co-develop and co-teach
Marina Bay Sands and SIT Pioneer Industry-First MICE Course to Develop Future Talent Read Post »
The Events Industry Council is thrilled to welcome Carolyn Patterson-Kemper, M.S., CMP, DES to the EIC Management Team as our new Director, CMP Certification Programme. After living in Atlanta where
Welcome New CMP Certification Programme Director Read Post »
Meet Devin Lewis, CMP Fellow, CEM, DES, HMCC CMP Governance Commission Chair Elect Devn Lewis, CMP Fellow, CEM, DES, HMCC credits her CMP certification for introducing her to a long
CMP Fellows Spotlight Read Post »
WASHINGTON, D.C, U.S.A. (March 2025) — The Events Industry Council (EIC), the global voice of the business events industry on advocacy, research, professional recognition, and standards, today released its Futures
Futures Landscape Report 2025 Read Post »
This is part of an ongoing series highlighting EIC Association and Corporate Members and the important work they are doing to serve our shared industry. IACC Website: www.iacconline.org CEO: Mark
Member Spotlight: IACC Read Post »
Today, EIC released an update to the Certified Meeting Professional International Standards (CMP-IS). This update will be the foundation for a revised CMP exam and related study materials, which will
EIC Announces Updated CMP International Standards and Beta Exam Read Post »
As we continue to monitor the devastating fires in Los Angeles, many of our members have set up programmes to provide support for those impacted. We will update this post
Events Industry Rallies Support for Those Impacted by LA Fires Read Post »
The team at Encore shares strategies for delivering increased value to participants and your organisation Did you know 80 percent of meeting organisers say in-person events are the most effective
Designing for Impact: 5 Ways to Enhance Event Value Read Post »
The Centre for Sustainability and Social Impact stands at the forefront of driving meaningful change in the global events industry. By providing globally relevant resources, we empower event professionals to adopt sustainable and socially impactful practices, fostering a pan-industry commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Case Study: Visit Denver’s Journey to Sustainable Event Certification Read Post »
EIC’s quarterly report shows group hotel nights now surpass 2019 bookings WASHINGTON, DC, USA (29 October 2024) — Today, the Events Industry Council (EIC), the global voice of the
Latest Global Barometer Points to Sustained Recovery for Business Events Industry Read Post »
In an ever-evolving events industry, adapting, innovating and creating relevant and engaging experiences is essential for success. EIC’s Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) certification, long considered the gold standard for event
This month we feature one of our founding members, PCMA as part of an ongoing series highlighting EIC Association and Corporate Members and the important work they are doing to
Member Spotlight: PCMA Read Post »
Survey, created in partnership with the SITE Foundation, seeks insights from cross-section of global business events sector as part of a year-long project to identify emerging issues likely to
Global Business Event Stakeholders Invited to Contribute to Futures Landscape Survey Read Post »
At CMP Advance in Toronto, attendees participated in a panel discussion about the importance of certifications and there impact on our industry and global connections. EIC Knowledge Committee member, Cara
The Impact of Certifications on Global Connections Read Post »
Known for its long-standing reputation as the world’s premier leader in luxury wellness guidance, Canyon Ranch has helped many CMPs produce top-tier mindful corporate experiences. “The value of Canyon Ranch
Canyon Ranch Proves a Powerful Partner for CMPs Read Post »
PCMA’s annual event receives Silver Level Certification in its first year participating in the Events Industry Council’s program Today, the Events Industry Council announced that Convening Leaders 2024 (CL24), EIC
PCMA Convening Leaders 2024 Achieves Sustainable Event Standards Certification Read Post »
This is part of an ongoing series highlighting EIC Association and Corporate Members and the important work they are doing to serve our shared industry. This month, in honour of
Member Spotlight: LGBT Meeting Professionals Association Read Post »
Sustainable events are moving from a topic of conversation to becoming a priority for event organisers as part of sound business practices. In addition to creating a more sustainable and equitable future, sustainable events enhance brand reputation, generate cost savings, ensure regulatory compliance, mitigate risks, attract talent, create value, and drive innovation.
Five Ways to Make Your Events More Sustainable Read Post »
Stephanie Jones is the Managing Director, Professional Development and Event Strategy with the Water Environment Federation and a member of EIC’s Sustainability and Social Impact Committee. Stephanie led the sustainability and social impact efforts for WEFTEC 2023, which received a Gold Level certification to the EIC Sustainable Event Standards and was a finalist for the 2023 IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award.
In the events industry, we are committed to integrating best practices for the environment into our events while demonstrating corporate and individual commitment to sustainable practices. We are supporting the sustainability standards and guidelines, and raising awareness and educating employees, as well as event attendees, about the environment conservation.
Events Industry Embraces Earth Day Read Post »
The Events Industry Council (EIC), the global voice of the business events industry on advocacy, research, professional recognition, and standards, today announced an ambitious survey of events industry leaders and meeting professionals as part of a year-long project examining the emerging issues and supporting trends that are most likely to shape the events industry in the years to come.
Events Industry Council Announces Global Futures Landscape Survey Read Post »
Today, the Events Industry Council (EIC) announced a new strategic partnership with Oak View Group (OVG), the global leader in sustainable venue operations. The partnership – the largest of its kind in scale – will allow the Oak View Group convention center portfolio to deepen its commitment to sustainability and better support the green meeting and exhibition aspirations of its clients and partners.
Events Industry Council and Oak View Group Announce Strategic Partnership Read Post »
As we close out BlackHistoryMonth, we’re thrilled to begin our Member Spotlight Series with a closer look at the amazing work being done by the National Coalition of Black Meeting
Member Spotlight: National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals Read Post »
