Founded in 1983, the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals (NCBMP) is a non-profit organization dedicated primarily to the training needs of African American meeting planners.
Among its mission statements, the organization is committed to the improvement of the meetings, conferences, exhibitions, and conventions managed by African Americans. Members of NCBMP include meeting planners from numerous business, civil rights, church and fraternal organizations, while associate membership is available to individuals who represent hotels, convention bureaus, city government officers and airlines, as well as other suppliers who offer services to the meeting and conventions community.
Since its founding, NCBMP has made a significant impact in the hospitality community by identifying the sizable purchasing power and impact of the African American convention. In addition, they actively encourage the next generation of African American meeting planners via a Student Education & Development Program, offering membership, mentorship, education and scholarships to college grads interested in pursuing careers in all segments of hospitality, including destination management, meeting planning, travel, and hospitality law.
Upcoming Conferences
Up to 10 students will be selected to attend and participate in the NCBMP’s 41st Annual Conference this year in Birmingham, AL—themed Strength & Resilience—scheduled for Nov. 13-16, 2024. The convention will focus on educating and empowering Black meeting professionals and others who believe in equality as well as foster new industry relationships, review current events and focus on progressive education.
Although a program was not available at press time, past conferences have dealt with a variety of themes, including:
- 2018: Investment opportunities in the travel and tourism industry
- 2020: The history of systemic racism and how to use observation to identify issues
- 2021: How to strategically market yourself, your company, and your destination, and the importance of knowing your past, present, and future power
