Home Meeting Planner Resources Event Neurodivergent Inclusivity Framework Launches at IMEX

Event Neurodivergent Inclusivity Framework Launches at IMEX

October 15, 2025

A new standardized framework for neurodivergent inclusivity in event design officially launched at IMEX America 2025 — and IMEX achieves the highest level of endorsement.

Neurodivergent inclusivity in event design has been catching fire recently — and now planners have a standardized framework to help make their meetings and events more welcoming to neurodivergent people. The new standardized framework for neurodivergent inclusivity in event design, developed in a collaboration between the IMEX Group, the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Australian Psychological Society (APS), was officially launched at IMEX America 2025 last week in Las Vegas to offer industry-wide benchmarks and practical guidelines that help event planners move from ad hoc accommodations to a proactive, people-first approach that breaks down participation barriers and increases attendee satisfaction.

Key components of the new framework include sensory-friendly spaces and adjustable environments; flexible program structures and schedules; clear, accessible pre-event and onsite communications; technology integration for accessibility; and continuous feedback and improvement mechanisms.

Left to right: Oli Bailey, Interaction Design at IMEX;
Dr. Amanda Clinton, Senior Director for the Office of International Affairs at the American Psychological Association; Paula Rowntree, Head of External Engagement at the Australian Psychological Society; Cameron Rust, Senior Director Experience Design at Hello! Destination Management; Kate Walsh, Regional Vice President at Hello! Destination Management

As part of the launch, IMEX Group announced that IMEX America was awarded Level III Comprehensive Neurodivergent Accommodation, the highest level of endorsement that signifies a fully neurodivergent-inclusive events. This means that IMEX America has design strategies that integrate inclusivity at every stage of planning, execution and feedback, though it only applies to aspects of the show under IMEX’s control, not including the exhibit floor. To qualify for the Level III Accommodation, the IMEX-operated elements were audited for sensory considerations, program design and communication. Among the areas that were audited were the Resilience Room (designed, built and operated by Hello! Destination Management), the Hosted Buyer Lounge and the show’s soundproof workstations.

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“We’re proud that IMEX America has achieved Level III Comprehensive Neurodivergent Accommodation,” said Oli Bailey, Interaction Design at IMEX. “At the same time, we understand that accessibility is a continuous journey—there’s always room to grow, and we remain committed to learning and evolving.”

This is an increasing area of interest because, while up to 20% of the population qualifying as neurodivergent (Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc.), most events are designed for neurotypical needs. Research shows that 85% of neurodivergent people avoid events due to sensory issues and unclear communication, and only 15% feel comfortable seeking staff support. And it’s not just the neurodivergent who benefit. Features like quiet rooms, clear signage, and flexible schedules help not only neurodivergent attendees but also parents, introverts, caregivers, and those experiencing anxiety or fatigue.

Planners who submit their events to the framework are audited for sensory considerations (such as quiet rooms and soundproof workstations), inclusive program design and clear communication across spaces like lounges, meeting rooms and dedicated resilience areas. The initiative also draws from practical guides and toolkits created by groups like ICCA, ABPCO, and Welcome Brain, which provide actionable steps for planners to embed neuroinclusive practices from initial concept through post-event feedback.

This industry standard marks a shift towards embedding inclusivity as a foundational element of event design, rather than treating it as an afterthought, driving meaningful change and engagement across the global events sector.