Agencies

The European project BEFuture has been awarded the 2026 IMEX-EIC Innovation in Sustainability Award during IMEX Frankfurt. The award recognises collaborative initiatives that contribute to advancing sustainability, inclusion and innovation within the global business events industry.

City Destinations Alliance (CityDNA) used IMEX Frankfurt 2026 as a platform to bring together destination professionals, industry partners and emerging talent. Activities throughout the week focused on collaboration, knowledge exchange and professional development across the business events sector.

The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) has introduced the new “MaxiMICE Thailand – From Potential to Exponential” brand to strengthen Thailand’s position in the global business events sector.

Ottawa Tourism and the Associated Country Women of the World have marked the completion of the 31st Triennial World Conference in Canada’s capital. The event followed an eight-year collaboration between the two organisations focused on association development and long-term event planning.

Fast Forward 15 and Destination Toronto have announced a new partnership focused on mentoring, leadership development and inclusion in the international events sector. The collaboration also includes the appointment of Nicola Alexander, UK Sales Director at Destination Toronto, as a mentor for the 2026–27 Fast Forward 15 programme.

Antwerp Convention Bureau welcomed eight international association buyers for a familiarisation trip focused on gastronomy, innovation, fashion and event infrastructure. The programme included the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony at Handelsbeurs and visits across the city.

EMECA, ICCA and UFI have formalised their collaboration under the European Events and Exhibition Industry Alliance. The expanded platform will represent the broader business events sector at EU level.

Europalco has obtained ISO 45001 certification, strengthening its occupational health and safety framework. The move supports compliance, operational reliability and employee wellbeing across its activities.

The DMC Network has introduced a new global positioning as consolidation reshapes the destination management sector. The initiative emphasizes local ownership combined with international reach.

IBTM will introduce a new trade show for the business events industry in Asia-Pacific. The inaugural edition is scheduled for 9–10 June 2027 in Bangkok.

The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers introduced a new regional scholarship programme for Latin America and announced its 2026 award recipients.

An invitation only gala on 12th of February 2026 recognised 11 local leaders for their roles in securing and hosting major conferences and events in 2025. The events associated with the winners welcomed nearly 30,000 visitors to Ottawa and supported local businesses and sector development.

IAPCO and PCMA have signed a two year Memorandum of Understanding to formalise cooperation across education, research and emerging leader engagement.

The Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) has announced the keynote and education programme for SITE Global Conference 2026, to be held at The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal.