With so many meetings industry events to choose from, here are 5 key ones you should consider.
If you plan incentives
Incentive Research Foundation 24th Annual Education Invitational. June 14-18, 2017. Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. This annual event features a live and silent auction to raise the funds that are used all year to create some of the incentive industry’s most valuable research. A full day of educational sessions presented by The IRF, optional sightseeing activities, a golf tournament and a cabana day.
If you’re a financial or insurance industry planner
2017 FICP Annual Conference. November 12-15, 2017. Manchester Grand Hyatt, San Diego, Calif. In addition to its Education Forum, FICP’s major meeting is this four-day event, a mix of networking and educational offerings covering the topics in this industry niche, from government regulations to contract issues. The Network – Live lets conference attendees meet and connect with hospitality partners without the hassle of a huge trade show.
If you’re an association planner
ASAE’s Annual Meeting & Exposition. August 12-15, 2017. Metro Toronto Convention Centre. This event attracts thousands of association planners for its education and expo. A speaker series known as “Game Changers” features 5 thought leaders from diverse perspectives—this year including a deaf activist and the teacher of New York University’s most popular course, The Science of Happiness—sharing their inspiring ideas and stories.
If you’re a senior planner
Prevue’s Visionary Summits. May 11-12, 2017, Royal Sonesta Houston Galleria. May 22-23, 2017, MEET on Bowery, New York City. August 10-12. PGA Resort & Spa, Palm Beach. Prevue’s Summits deliver “elevated education for experienced planners,” with topics ranging from meeting security to wellness. Each conference has its own theme and provides just 30 attendees with the chance to benchmark with equally experienced peers.
For everyone
IMEX America. October 10-12, 2017. Sands Expo, Las Vegas. The meetings industry’s major convention, IMEX 2016 attracted 3,250 exhibiting companies and 3,216 hosted buyers from 60 countries, and every year has broken new records. its sister exhibition takes place in Frankfurt each May.
