In 2025, IAPCO Accredited Professional Conference and Congress Organisers delivered 23,512 meetings and events worldwide, representing an increase of more than 20 % compared with the previous year. Across 187 office locations, members managed more than 7.7 million participants and generated a combined economic impact of €17.36 billion. The report also includes international case studies across healthcare, science, education and policy sectors, demonstrating the broader impact of meetings beyond direct economic contribution.

Survey highlights growth, operational efficiency and future pipeline

The survey findings also indicate changes in event formats and operational structures across the industry. While the number of meetings increased, average participant numbers per event declined from 408 to 328. Average economic impact per event also decreased, while the number of meetings managed per staff member rose from 2.02 to 2.89. IAPCO stated that the data points to a more agile and adaptive operating environment, with members delivering a higher volume of events through leaner teams and smaller meeting formats.

Future business levels remain strong. Between 2027 and 2029, IAPCO members already have 6,841 confirmed and pending events in the pipeline. A significant share of this future business has not yet been assigned to specific venues or destinations, creating opportunities for convention bureaux, venues and destination partners to engage with organisers at an early stage.