A recent study conducted by The Hague & Partners Convention Bureau reveals the important role that destinations can play in supporting the legacy of events. The research surveyed association-focused respondents who were either working towards achieving a legacy or considering it. Only 22% of the respondents believed that destinations should provide recommendations for legacy projects. Instead, 52% emphasized the importance of other practical support, such as funding and investment, staffing and resources, and training and education.

However, the study also found that network development, particularly through introductions to relevant local stakeholders, was considered the most crucial area of practical support provided by destinations. 25% of the respondents identified this as a priority.

The research highlights the valuable knowledge that destinations bring to the event planning process and their ability to facilitate connections that contribute to a lasting legacy. Destination and venue partners emphasized the significance of collaborative work with organizers to help them achieve their legacy goals, including both infrastructure-related requirements and more abstract needs that may arise long after the event.

Overall, the study confirmed that while associations and not-for-profits bear the responsibility for creating event legacies, destinations have a vital role in supporting the process. By providing practical support, unique knowledge, and facilitating connections, destinations can help ensure that events have a positive and lasting impact in alignment with the organizer’s strategic mission and goals.

The research was conducted in two stages, including quantitative research through a workshop with leading international association conference professionals, as well as a quantitative survey of 70 event professionals from around the world.

The white paper and research results can be found here.