The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers and PCMA formalised the collaboration during PCMA Convening Leaders 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Memorandum of Understanding establishes a structured framework for joint initiatives focused on professional education, thought leadership, research and long term capability development within the global business events sector.

Framework for Education, Research and Emerging Leaders

Under the agreement, both organisations will implement a defined programme of reciprocal and joint initiatives over a two year period. These include contributions by senior leaders to CEO level panels at flagship events such as the IAPCO Annual Meeting and General Assembly and PCMA Convening Leaders. Members of both organisations will receive a 20 percent discount on online educational content and learning resources.

The MOU also provides one joint research project per year, focusing on next generation talent or government policy affecting the business events industry. In addition, at least one annual joint initiative will target university programmes or student associations, and one shared educational session will be delivered each year at a major international industry trade show.