The PCO – Issue #124 | Edition 3 (2026)

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Innovation & Agility: Staying Ahead in an AI-Driven World Bi-monthly publication from the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers

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| PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS

MEET IN THE CITY THAT’S ALL IN.

ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

MEET IN THE CITY THAT’S BUILT FOR . WHERE IDEAS ARE BIG THINKING BORN, COLLIDE, AND MULTIPLY. TORONTO IS A LEADER IN INTERNATIONAL MEETING ATTENDANCE POWERED

BY DESTINATION TORONTO, THE LEADERS CIRCLE, AND THE MTCC. WITH EXPERT SUPPORT FROM BID TO EXECUTION AND 36,000+ HOTEL ROOMS, FROM DOWNTOWN LUXURY TO AIRPORT EASE, HOSPITALITY IS ALL IN FOR YOUR SUCCESS. METRO TORONTO THE LEADERS CIRCLE CONVENTION CENTRE (MTCC) CONNECTING TORONTO’S EXPERTS DOWNTOWN. ACCESSIBLE. PROVEN. For over 40 years, the MTCC has been Toronto’s meeting epicentre.

Highlights: • Over 65,000 sq. m of flexible space • North & South Buildings • 77 meeting rooms, two ballrooms, and more than 41,000 sq. m of exhibit space • 11,000+ hotel rooms within walking distance

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WITH GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES.

In collaboration with Destination Toronto and the MTCC, this program helps secure major international events through customized bids, hosting support, and government liaison.

Upcoming Highlights: • One Harp World (2026) • World Chambers Congress (2027) • International Congress of Inborn Errors of Metabolism (2029) • $435 million dollars in economic impact in its first ten years

Hello IAPCO friends and community, Strategy has become a very strong element of our business, especially in recent years, which have been so full of disruption, uncertainty, instability and of course the domination of digitalisation and AI. Never before has the need for strategic thinking – guided by a clear mission and vision – been more central to the meetings industry and of course the world of PCOs. Agility, flexibility and adaptability are driving event-design and project management.

Likewise, innovation is fundamentally embedded into the DNA of IAPCO members and community work, and of course also in our association’s long-term strategic plan.

Clients are not just asking for the delivery of exceptional events, but for trusted advisors who can help them navigate through the uncertain environment, advance innovation in conference management and create long-standing impact, while maintaining high professional standards. And we know how to do this best.

History has proven that accredited PCOs occupy a unique position at the intersection of science, business, education and human connection, a position empowered by AI but driven by people. Yet again, best practices showcased by our members and community and the true examples of their work are the strongest testaments of this strong position.

In addition, innovation and agility are vital elements of IAPCO’s strategic pillars, driving education, advocacy and community engagement. These values are celebrated through our Driving Excellence Award and reflected across all our activities.

The meetings industry is entering a defining era and, as always, continues to lead through change. In this issue, you can discover how PCOs are driving transformation by combining strategic insight, experience design, technology and stewardship.

IAPCO NEWS | I S S U E # 1 2 4 E D I T I O N 3 ( 2 0 2 6 )

Innovation & Agility: Staying Ahead in an AI-Driven World

As our industry continues to evolve at remarkable speed, one thing has become increasingly clear: the role of the PCO has never been more important or more dynamic. AI, changing client expectations and an increasingly complex global environment are reshaping what success looks like for meetings and events. Today, our members’ clients expect far more than flawless execution; they seek trusted partners who can help them achieve meaningful organisational, scientific and societal outcomes.

This edition of The PCO explores how innovation and agility are enabling our profession to thrive in this landscape.

Throughout this issue, you will discover how our members are embracing AI to enhance, not replace, human expertise, using technology to unlock deeper insights, improve decisionmaking and create richer participant experiences. At the same time, we examine how our industry is redefining commercial models, expanding advisory services and investing in the skills that will shape our emerging leaders of event professionals.

With articles featuring what the real competitive advantage is and asking whether AI’s only benefit is tosave us time, it is clear that whilst technology is transforming the way we all work, the values that underpin our profession remain unchanged. Strategic thinking, creativity, integrity, collaboration and stewardship continue to distinguish the very best PCOs. Our ability to connect people, foster knowledge exchange and create lasting impact cannot be replicated by technology alone.

I hope this edition inspires new ideas, encourages bold thinking and demonstrates why IAPCO’s PCO members remain an indispensable strategic partner in an AI-driven world. Oh, and in case you are wondering, yes, I thought I would try some AI to help write my message for this issue …

Martin Boyle CEO, IAPCO

Thank you for being part of us, enjoy the issue!

Sissi Lignou President, IAPCO

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The PCO: Published by IAPCO Whilst every care is taken in the preparation and publishing of The PCO, the views expressed are not necessarily those of IAPCO or its members and no responsibility can be taken for articles, errors or comment.

Editor: Martin Boyle (pco@IAPCO.org)

REGIONAL FOCUS FUTURE LOADING

Highlighting APAC

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IAPCO Members, Ambassadors and Partners Driving Leadership, Innovation and Growth

PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS Toronto

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Frankfurt Convention Bureau

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Hong Kong

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Messe Frankfurt

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Meet Türkiye

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Meet In The City That’s All In

ON THE COVER: Stock Photo: https://www.istockphoto.com

CONTENTS

Click. Match. Event

Powering the Next Frontier for Space Science Innovation and Agility Make Growth Happen Where Business is Pleasure

ON-POINT ARTICLES The Real Competitive Advantage Isn’t AI

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The Agile PCO

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APAIE 2026

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Moving the Mission

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Healthcare Events in the Age of AI

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From Event Delivery to Mission Delivery

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Scientific Excellence Alone is Not Enough

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If technology gives us back time, what do we do with it?

Guiding Associations through the Age of AI

Showcasing the Strength of APAC Collaboration

How Women Deliver 2026 Redefined the Role of the PCO in the Oceanic Pacific

Turning Information into Meaningful Connections

How Vision Code Illustrates the New Role of the PCO

Why associations need strong development strategies – and what that means for their congress partners

MEMBER NEWS Member News

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Moments from the IAPCO Community

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Updates from the IAPCO Member Community

SnaPCO

IAPCO NEWS Message from the President and CEO

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Unlocking Exclusive Opportunities with IAPCO

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Upcoming Education and Events

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Education

IAPCO EDGE Amsterdam 2027

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Save The Date

Collaboration Award 2026

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Feature in the Issue #125 Edition 4 (2026) of the PCO!

Nominations Are Now Open

Empowering Emerging Leaders Worldwide

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Building Leadership Pathways. Unlocking Excellence.

Strengthening Our Profession.

2026 IAPCO & FIEIXPO Emerging Leaders Programme LATAM & Jorge Castex Scholarship

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2026 IAPCO & NZICC Emerging Leaders Programme – APAC and The Jan Tonkin Scholarship

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Community

Welcoming New Members & Partners

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Advocacy

Theme:

The Evolving Role of the PCO: Meeting Tomorrow’s Client Needs Clients no longer ask only for flawless logistics— they expect partners who grow communities, prove outcomes, and de-risk complexity. This issue explores how the Professional Congress Organiser is shifting from event delivery to strategic value creation across the entire impact cycle.

Regional Feature: Middle East and Africa The upcoming edition of The PCO will shine a spotlight on the dynamic Middle East and Africa region.

IAPCO Strengthens Advocacy and Leadership Development at FIEXPO Latin America 2026

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Dear Destinations.

Dear Associations. Real Impact.

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IAPCO Brings the Voice of the Global PCO Community to the ICCA Mediterranean and France–Benelux Chapter Meeting

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We invite IAPCO members, clients, partners and collaborators from across the region to contribute news, updates, case studies and stories that showcase its distinctive strengths, innovations and growing influence within the global meetings and events industry.

Mapping Global Connections

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Let us highlight the creativity, ambition, leadership and evolving landscape shaping the future of meetings across the Middle East and Africa.

New IAPCO resources strengthen collaboration and compliance across the international meetings industry

EMERGING LEADERS PERSPECTIVE What If AI (Only) Saves Us Time?

Deadline for all contributions: 10 August 2026

7 We welcome submissions from all our members from around the world.

Editorial support is provided to non-English speakers.

Send your contributions for the next edition to pco@IAPCO.org

| PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

CLICK. MATCH. EVENT. Find the right partners for your event.

FRM MEETING GUIDE Find out more!

Filter what you need.

Discover what inspires you.

Plan what will be remembered.

www.meetfrankfurt.com/guide 6

EMERGING LEADERS PERSPECTIVE | I S S U E # 1 2 4 E D I T I O N 3 ( 2 0 2 6 )

What If AI (Only) Saves Us Time?

Why the future PCO must become more strategic, not just more productive

What do we do with the time AI gives back?

If every hour saved by AI is filled with another operational task, have we progressed, or only increased capacity?

In an AI-driven world, saving time may be the easiest benefit to understand and the easiest one to misuse. The more important question is: if AI saves us time, what do we actually do with it?

There is a trap here. AI can make teams faster. Faster teams can take on more work. More work creates more pressure.

The cycle creates more output, not better congresses.

The opportunity is different. Time saved by AI should not automatically become more volume. It should become more value.

Are we moving the mission, or only delivering the event?

Client expectations are changing. A congress is no longer judged only by its programme, logistics and smooth operations. These remain essential: no mission can be moved if the microphones fail, the registration desk collapses or the programme does not run. But delivery is no longer the full story. Associations increasingly expect congresses to create visibility, support a wider purpose, respect the destination, consider sustainability, engage communities and leave something behind. That changes the role of the PCO. We still operate and solve problems, but we are also asked to advise on delegate experience, communication, partnerships, outcomes and the client’s mission. This is where AI becomes interesting: not because it can write faster emails, but because it may create space for better thinking.

Can AI make us more strategic?

AI can reduce parts of the operational load and help us process information faster. Used well, that matters.

PCOs are expected to understand many worlds at once. We need to connect decisions and guide clients.

AI can support that process, but it does not understand the full reality of a congress. Some of the most important information sits in relationships, timing, trust, expectations and experience. AI can help us become more strategic only if we use it to support judgement, not replace it.

What happens when everything starts looking and sounding the same?

There is another risk we do not discuss enough: sameness. When AI is used without strong human direction, results can become repetitive. Branding may look clean and polished, yet feel as if several organisations started from the same template. The same can happen with communication. Messages become smoother and more polished, but not always better. Everything becomes acceptable, but less distinctive.

More time to ask whether the programme serves the audience. More time to shape the congress story, improve delegate experience, understand sponsor needs and consider sustainability and legacy before they become decorative words in a final report.

What should emerging professionals do now?

For emerging professionals, this is especially important.

Many routine tasks that AI now supports were also how new people learned the industry: why timing matters, why wording matters, why suppliers need clarity and why one agenda change can affect five other decisions.

If some of this work becomes automated or accelerated, emerging professionals cannot become only users of tools. They need to become better question askers.

Why are we doing this task? How does it connect to the congress? Who is affected? What changes for the client, delegate, speaker, sponsor or destination? These questions build judgement, and judgement allows a PCO to move from task execution to strategic contribution.

In the end, the future of our profession will not be defined only by how quickly we adopt AI. It will be defined by what we protect, improve and develop while using it. If we use the time AI gives back to understand clients better, design congresses with more purpose and strengthen the human judgement behind our work, then AI becomes more than a productivity tool. It becomes part of a better way of working.

Alexandros Terzis IAPCO Emerging Leaders Committee Chair & CoOpted Council Member, and Event Coordinator, ERA Congresses & Events

For PCOs, this matters. Congresses compete for attention, trust and relevance. If AI helps us produce more communication but weakens the identity behind it, we may be faster without being better. The danger is not only that AI may make mistakes. It may make weak thinking look professional.

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| PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

Hong Kong – Powering the Next Frontier for Space Science Hong Kong has long been a premier destination with a proven track record in hosting leading global conferences and flagship exhibitions across diverse sectors, including legal, medical sciences and aviation. Building on this strong foundation, the city has extended its global reach into a new frontier – astrophysics and space science – reinforcing its position as the World’s Meeting Place for high-impact international events.

This momentum culminated as Hong Kong made its debut as the host city of the 2026 Asia-Pacific Regional International Astronomical Union Meeting (APRIM) on 4–8 May 2026.

Widely regarded as the ‘Olympics of Astrophysics and Space Science’, APRIM highlighted Hong Kong’s emergence as a platform for academic exchange and scientific advancement, while illuminating its potential to support dialogue on the rapidly evolving ‘New Space’ economy.

Held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the five-day summit brought together more than 600 scientists, engineers, policymakers and industry experts from thirtyseven countries and regions. Under the theme ‘Hands across the Pacific under the International Astronomical Union (IAU)’, the programme featured speakers included five Nobel and Shaw Prize laureates, among them Professor Brian Schmidt, the 2011 Nobel Prize in Physics laureate and incoming IAU President. Other distinguished laureates include Professor Victoria Kaspi, Professor Matthew Bailes, Professor Shri Kulkarni and Professor Max Pettini, led discussions on black

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holes, exoplanets and space debris to advocate for orbital sustainability.

The successful staging of APRIM 2026 stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s coordinated approach to enhance its role as the World’s Meeting Place, with the Hong Kong Tourism Board supporting organisers in convening international experts across academia, science and policy. The event aligns with the National 15th Five-Year Plan and Hong Kong’s government funding for six flagship aerospace projects, reflecting broader government support for advancing innovation-driven sectors and international collaboration. As noted by Professor Quentin Parker, Chair of the APRIM 2026 and Director of the HKU Laboratory for Space Research, ‘Hong Kong is well positioned as an international hub for space science research. As a global super-connector, the city boasts a worldclass regulatory framework, an internationally recognised common law system, and English as the common language for scientific collaboration. I firmly believe Hong Kong can become a global hub for space sustainability, playing a pivotal role in advancing both space research and the broader space economy.’

Capitalising on Hong Kong’s unique strengths as an international super-connector, APRIM 2026 underscores Hong Kong’s capability to host specialised, high-level meetings in emerging sectors, reinforcing its role at the forefront of global scientific exchange and innovation.

ON-POINT ARTICLE | I S S U E # 1 2 4 E D I T I O N 3 ( 2 0 2 6 )

The Real Competitive Advantage Isn't AI – If technology gives us back time, what do we do with it?

Like it or not, AI has moved from innovation to expectation. Teams are being encouraged to use it, clients are asking about it and new tools seem to appear almost daily. The question is no longer whether we should adopt AI, but how we use it in a way that genuinely adds value.

There is often an assumption that technology means greater efficiency, lower costs and faster delivery. In many cases, that is true. However, I think the more interesting question is what happens next. If technology gives us back time, how do we use it?

One answer is that we invest it in our people. Reducing the administrative load on teams means more capacity for meaningful work, the kind that develops expertise, strengthens client relationship and makes a career in our industry genuinely rewarding. At a time when attracting and retaining talented people remains one of the industry's real pressure points that is not a small thing.

There is also a longer-term opportunity that our industry is exploring. PCOs accumulate deep congress intelligence over time; attendance patterns, sponsorship performance, delegate behaviour, abstract trends. As AI makes it increasingly feasible to analyse and interpret that data at scale, the PCO's role can shift from delivering events to shaping strategy. The organisations that build this capability will not just deliver better events, they will help clients make better decisions about their scientific communities, their advocacy and their longterm growth.

Technology can automate tasks, organise information and support decision-making, but it cannot replace relationships, experience or judgement. Those remain at the heart of what we do.

As our industry continues to explore AI and other emerging technologies, perhaps the focus should not be on how much technology we use, but on how effectively it helps us create value. The future of the PCO will not be defined by AI alone. It will be defined by how we use technology to create stronger partnerships, better experiences and more meaningful outcomes for our clients.

As client expectations continue to evolve, PCOs are increasingly being asked to do more than deliver successful events. Clients are looking for partners who understand their objectives, help navigate challenges and contribute to the wider goals of their organisation.

Perhaps the real competitive advantage isn't AI itself, but what we choose to do with the time it gives back.

That was one of the key lessons reinforced through International Conference Services’ participation in the Singapore Tourism Board’s MICE Industry Digital Plan.

As our portfolio of congresses continued to grow, so did the complexity behind the scenes. ICS is a global organisation, and many of our events are delivered through international teams working across countries, time zones and disciplines. That approach allows us to bring together the right expertise, local knowledge and specialist skills for each client and destination, but it also requires information, resources and ways of working to be aligned if teams are to collaborate effectively and deliver a consistent client experience.

Olivia Galun Key Specialist, Marketing & Communications, International Conference Services (ICS)

Jenn Abbott Chief Executive Officer & Partner, and

Click image below for more information

Through the programme, we took the opportunity to review how information flowed through the organisation, improve visibility across projects and resources, and create greater consistency in the way teams worked together. The biggest outcome was not simply greater efficiency. Better visibility allowed teams to identify challenges earlier, collaborate more effectively and spend less time managing processes. In turn, that created more capacity to focus on clients, provide strategic input and contribute more meaningfully throughout the event lifecycle.

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE

The Agile PCO: Guiding Associations through the Age of AI

ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

Artificial intelligence is transforming the meetings and association sector. From personalised attendee experiences to automated content creation and data analysis, AI provides opportunities to enhance efficiency and engagement.

However, amid the excitement surrounding these new technologies, an important question arises: How can PCOs keep up with the latest developments in this rapidly changing landscape to ensure they continue to deliver high-quality services to their clients?

From event organiser to strategic partner While traditionally focused on logistics and event delivery, today’s PCO must operate in a landscape shaped by digital transformation, sustainability commitments, accessibility requirements and growing member expectations. Rather than operational execution alone, associations increasingly expect strategic support. They need a partner who can help them engage with their communities year-round, navigate regulatory changes, manage risk and create meaningful experiences for participants. In this context, agility is becoming one of the most valuable capabilities a PCO can offer.

AI as a tool, not strategy AI can help associations analyse feedback, personalise participant experiences, and streamline administrative processes. These capabilities create efficiencies, enabling organisations to allocate their resources more effectively. However, AI should not be mistaken for strategy. Although technology can process information, it cannot build trust. While it can generate content, it cannot replace human interaction. Finally, while it can identify trends, it cannot grasp the complex relationships at the core of every community. Therefore, the real opportunity lies in using AI to enhance human capabilities rather than replacing them.

At Congrex, this perspective has led to the establishment of an internal AI task force. This task force is dedicated to exploring practical applications of AI, assessing the associated risks and identifying areas where AI can genuinely create value for clients and participants. The aim is not to automate for its own sake, but to find smarter ways of working that improve service, insight and engagement.

From events to communities Technology is also accelerating another significant change: the shift from event-centric to communitycentric thinking. Members no longer only engage with associations once a year.

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They now expect year-round access to knowledge, networking opportunities and professional support.

Digital platforms, online learning and on-demand content have created new opportunities for continuous engagement. AI can facilitate this evolution by helping organisations better understand the needs of their members and deliver more relevant content. However, the objective remains fundamentally human: fostering connection, belonging and value. The annual congress certainly remains an important milestone, but it is increasingly becoming one moment within a broader year-round engagement.

Navigating multiple transformations AI is just one of many changes affecting the meetings industry. Organisations must also respond to new regulations regarding accessibility, sustainability, data protection and cybersecurity. Therefore, agility implies more than just adopting innovative technology. It means balancing multiple priorities simultaneously while maintaining trust and delivering value. A modern organisation understands that innovation must be implemented responsibly. Digital transformation should strengthen accessibility, support inclusion, and improve members' experiences rather than create new barriers.

A human future for an AI-driven industry Earlier this year, Congrex Switzerland invited association leaders to take part in discussions at the Health.Tech Global Summit in Basel on the increasing impact of AI on the healthcare sector. A consistent theme that emerged was that, while technology is advancing rapidly, leadership, ethics, collaboration and trust remain essential. The same applies to the events and meetings industry. Artificial intelligence will continue to transform the organisation and experience of congresses.

However, the purpose of meetings will remain the same: to bring people together to exchange knowledge, build relationships and drive progress. Therefore, the future of the PCO will be defined not only by technology but also by the ability to combine innovation with adaptability, digital capability with human judgement, and efficiency with empathy.

In an AI-driven world, agility and innovation are not just about keeping pace with change. They are about the ability to lead through it.

Eveline Ludwig Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Congrex Switzerland

At Messe Frankfurt’s venues, growth is not only possible – it’s surprisingly straightforward.

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Room to grow: Flexible venues and adaptable spaces allow events to start at a manageable scale and expand step by step.

Grow with experience: The Messe Frankfurt team brings decades of expertise, providing reliable, scalable processes and infrastructure as events evolve.

Grow internationally: Frankfurt’s excellent connectivity makes it easy for participants from around the world to attend and helps events reach new audiences.

Grow within your market: a strong and active network with close proximity to key industries, companies, and decision-makers creates valuable opportunities for networking and greater visibility.

Growth may not be something you can order on demand – but if the conditions are right anywhere, they’re right in Frankfurt.

ON-POINT ARTICLE PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS | I S S U E #|1 2I S4 SEUDEI T#I 1O2N4 3E D( I2T0I 2O 6N) 3 ( 2 0 2 6 )

Innovation and Agility Make Growth Happen

CardMadness 2026 in Messe Frankfurt Hall 1, Copyright: CardMadness

Here are a few examples.

The International Infrastructure Management & GIS Conference (Esri) began in 2023 on two levels of Kap Europa with around 600 attendees. Just one year later, it had grown to occupy the entire venue, and by April 2026 it had moved to the Congress Centre and adjoined Hall 5, welcoming even more participants. Planning for 2027 is underway.

Another success story is This is Marketing. In just four years, attendance grew from 1,800 to 6,000. One reason this was possible was the ability to expand continuously without changing venues. The event grew from the Forum into the Festhalle and will add the neighbouring Congress Centre in 2027, with hopes of welcoming more than 8,000 participants.

Organiser Luisa Knopf puts it simply: ‘It’s wonderful to see a community keep growing – and to have a venue that grows with it.’

The E-Waste World, together with the Battery Recycling Expo and Metal Recycling Conference (EBM), found its home at Kap Europa in 2019. From 2023 onwards, the event expanded rapidly: attendee and exhibitor numbers increased, a new ITAD & Circular Electronics sector was added, and additional conference formats were introduced. Throughout that growth, the Messe Frankfurt venues continued to provide the space needed at each stage. Over the years, the event moved from the Forum to the Congress Centre, then to Hall 12, and most recently to Hall 3. As organiser Nicola Cahill notes: ‘Our remarkable growth is, of course, driven by the dynamism of our industry, but also by Frankfurt’s unique advantages as a location. It’s simply the right place for ideas and growth.’

Growth matters beyond B2B events as well. CardMadness, Europe’s leading trading card show, is a good example. After selling out its debut event on one level of Hall 1 this year, the show will simply double its footprint in 2027 by expanding to a second level of the same hall.

Messe Frankfurt, foyer hall 12, copyright: Messe Frankfurt, Photo: Pietro Sutera

Messe Frankfurt, rooftop hall 3, copyright: Messe Frankfurt, Photo: Pietro Sutera

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| IAPCO NEWS ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

S AV E T H E D AT E

IAPCO EDGE Amsterdam 2027 20–22 January 2027

Join us for IAPCO EDGE Amsterdam 2027, IAPCO's flagship seminar delivering world-class professional development for the global meetings and events industry.

Developed by the IAPCO Training Academy, EDGE combines international expertise with regional relevance, equipping professionals with the knowledge, practical skills and strategic insight needed to thrive in an evolving business environment.

Hosted in the vibrant city of Amsterdam by Amsterdam Convention Bureau and IAPCO Accredited Member Congress by design, EDGE Amsterdam 2027 promises an inspiring setting for learning, collaboration and meaningful industry exchange.

EDGE is more than a seminar. It is where knowledge meets experience, where ideas become action, and where lasting industry connections are formed.

What to expect World-class education from internationally recognised industry leaders Practical and interactive learning experiences

I nsights into the latest trends shaping the global meetings and events industry Meaningful networking with peers from around the world

Registration opens soon

Scan QR Code to register your interest and be notified as soon as registration opens.

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IAPCO NEWS | I S S U E # 1 2 4 E D I T I O N 2 ( 2 0 2 6 )

Nominations Are Now Open 2026 IAPCO Driving Excellence Collaboration Award Exceptional events are built on exceptional partnerships.

Supported by

The IAPCO Driving Excellence Collaboration Award, supported

by IBTM World, recognises outstanding partnerships that deliver meaningful impact, innovation and lasting value across the global meetings industry.

Celebrating Successful Partnerships that Drive Excellence in the Meetings and Events Industry Behind every successful event is a solid, dependable partnership built on a shared commitment to excellence. The IAPCO Driving Excellence Collaboration Award recognises outstanding collaboration in any form, within and across industries, celebrating the partnerships that raise the bar for the meetings industry.

The award highlights the significance of effective partnerships and the achievements of organisations working together towards a common goal.

Why Nominate?

Celebrate outstanding collaboration Recognise innovation and shared success

howcase excellence across the global meetings S industry Inspire future partnerships

Entry Criteria • The award is open to collaborations led by an IAPCO Member.

• Entries must be nominated by an IAPCO Member.

• The collaboration should have taken place on or after 1 October 2025.

The Award Among other benefits for both main collaborators, the winning IAPCO Member will receive a complimentary registration to attend either IAPCO EDGE Amsterdam 2027 or the IAPCO Annual Meeting & General Assembly 2027 in Mumbai, India.

View full details & criteria here

Do you know an outstanding partnership?

Nominate a client, colleague, supplier, destination or industry partner whose collaborative approach has made a significant contribution to the meetings and business events industry.

Entries close 1 October 2026

Nominate Now

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| IAPCO NEWS

Unlocking Exclusive Opportunities with IAPCO

ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

Connecting the IAPCO community through exclusive Hosted Buyer opportunities with IAPCO Strategic Partners IMEX America and IBTM World 2026.

Every autumn, two of the meetings industry’s most influential events – IMEX America in Las Vegas, USA and IBTM World in Barcelona, Spain – bring together destinations, venues, convention bureaux, suppliers and meeting professionals from around the world. For IAPCO members, these events represent more than an opportunity to discover new products and services. They provide a valuable platform to strengthen international relationships, exchange knowledge with peers and engage with Strategic Partners in person.

In 2026, IAPCO is pleased to coordinate Hosted Buyer Groups with two of its Strategic Partners: returning to IMEX America with a dedicated IAPCO group after several years and continuing its successful presence at IBTM World following two consecutive editions.

More than attending an exhibition Participating as part of an IAPCO Hosted Buyer Group offers members the opportunity to experience these leading trade shows alongside fellow IAPCO professionals.

In addition to the benefits offered through each event’s Hosted Buyer Programme, participants enjoy dedicated opportunities to connect with other members, engage with IAPCO Strategic Partners and build relationships within the wider IAPCO community.

For many participants, these shared experiences become just as valuable as the appointments themselves, creating conversations and collaborations that continue long after the event has ended.

WHY PARTICIPATE?

Hosted Buyer participants benefit from: Complimentary travel and accommodation, subject to each event’s Hosted Buyer Programme Terms and Conditions Pre-scheduled appointments with international exhibitors Dedicated networking opportunities with fellow IAPCO members Opportunities to engage with IAPCO Strategic Partners Curated member activities throughout each event A cost-effective way to expand international business connections

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2026 IAPCO will coordinate Hosted Buyer Groups for:

IMEX America Las Vegas, USA | 13–15 October 2026

IBTM World Barcelona, Spain | 17–19 November 2026

Returning after several years, the IAPCO Hosted Buyer Group at IMEX America offers members a valuable opportunity to reconnect with the North American and global meetings industry.

Members can find further information and details through the IAPCO Member Hub here.

Following two successful Hosted Buyer Groups in recent editions, IAPCO will once again bring members together at IBTM World for a curated experience in Barcelona. Members can find further information and details through the IAPCO Member Hub here.

Please note that access to the members hub requires an active IAPCO member login.

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IAPCO was proud to participate in FIEXPO Latin America 2026 in San José, Costa Rica, reinforcing its commitment to advocacy, education and leadership development across Latin America and the Caribbean.

FIEXPO, a strategic partner of IAPCO, continues to provide an important platform for regional dialogue, collaboration and industry advancement.

During the week, Jimena Ruiz, IAPCO Council Member, IAPCO Training Academy Regional Representative for LATAM, and Chief of Staff, BTC Americas, participated in the Next Generation Summit as an invited speaker, as an invited speaker, sharing insights on leadership development, emerging talent and the importance of creating meaningful pathways for the next generation of meetings industry professionals across Latin America and the Caribbean, highlighting IAPCO’s commitment to developing future industry leaders.

IAPCO CEO Martin Boyle represented the global voice of IAPCO-accredited PCOs at the 13th Latin American Political Forum, joining ministers, policymakers, destination leaders and industry stakeholders in high-level discussions shaping the future of business events, while highlighting the vital value our community and industry brings to destinations, associations, economies and knowledge exchange.

IAPCO NEWS | I S S U E # 1 2 4 E D I T I O N 3 ( 2 0 2 6 )

IAPCO Strengthens Advocacy and Leadership Development at FIEXPO Latin America 2026

From left to right: Juan Jose Garcia (Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Bco Congresos), Eduardo Chaillo (Global General Manager for Latin America, Maritz), Annette Gregg (CEO, SITE), Christoph Tessmar (Director, Barcelona Convention Bureau), Dennis Speet (Managing Director, Amsterdam Convention Bureau) and Martin Boyle (CEO, IAPCO)

Martin also joined the FIEXPO Convention Bureau Challenge as an invited international speaker, alongside Juan Jose Garcia (Bco Congresos), Eduardo Chaillo (Maritz), Annette Gregg (SITE), Christoph Tessmar (Barcelona Convention Bureau) and Dennis Speet (Amsterdam Convention Bureau), exploring innovation and emerging opportunities for destination managers.

A key highlight was the announcement, during the FIEXPO Gala, of the opening of registrations for the inaugural IAPCO & FIEXPO Emerging Leaders Programme – LATAM and the Jorge Castex Scholarship, designed to empower emerging leaders across the region. The programme has since commenced, with online education sessions now underway.

Through its participation, IAPCO continues #UnlockingAdvocacy, ensuring the voice of PCOs is heard where decisions shape the future of the global meetings industry. Continue to the next page to learn more about it.

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| IAPCO NEWS

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EMPOWERING EMERGING LEADERS WORLDWIDE BUILDING LEADERSHIP PATHWAYS. UNLOCKING EXCELLENCE. STRENGTHENING OUR PROFESSION. Education has always been at the heart of IAPCO. Today, it is one of our most important strategic investments.

As the global meetings and business events industry evolves, so do the capabilities required to lead it. Digital transformation, AI, sustainability, shifting client expectations and increasingly complex stakeholder environments are reshaping our profession at an unprecedented pace. The future of our industry depends not only on adapting to change, but on developing the people who will lead it.

‘No single organisation can develop the future workforce alone. Through strategic partnerships, we are creating leadership pathways that deliver lasting impact for individuals, businesses, destinations and the wider meetings industry.’

Martin Boyle CEO, IAPCO

That is why workforce development sits firmly at the centre of IAPCO's strategy.

Through its globally recognised Training Academy, education programmes and strategic partnerships, IAPCO is committed to identifying, nurturing and empowering the next generation of leaders. The objective extends beyond developing technical expertise. It is about cultivating professionals who think strategically, lead with confidence, embrace innovation and contribute to raising standards across the global meetings industry.

Recognising that every region faces its own opportunities and challenges, IAPCO has adopted a regional approach to leadership development. Rather than delivering a single global programme, it has created leadership pathways that combine international best practice with regional relevance, ensuring participants gain skills that are immediately applicable within their own markets while becoming part of a global professional community.

This vision first came to life through the IAPCO & NZICC Emerging Leaders Programme – APAC, now firmly established as a flagship initiative for developing future leaders across AsiaPacific. Building on its success, 2026 marked another important milestone with the launch of the IAPCO & FIEXPO Emerging Leaders Programme – LATAM, extending these opportunities to Latin America and the Caribbean.

Together, these programmes represent far more than educational initiatives. They demonstrate the power of collaboration, bringing together industry leaders, destinations and strategic partners who share a common belief: investing in people creates stronger organisations, more resilient destinations and a more sustainable global meetings industry.

As participants progress through each programme, they gain practical leadership skills, strengthen their professional networks and engage directly with experienced industry leaders.

Scholarships honouring Jan Tonkin MNZM in Asia-Pacific and Jorge Castex in Latin America further reinforce IAPCO's commitment to recognising excellence while inspiring future generations to continue raising professional standards.

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2 Regional Emerging Leaders Programmes Strategic partnerships with NZICC and FIEXPO 2 prestigious regional scholarships Leadership pathways connecting emerging professionals across continents One shared mission: Unlocking Excellence

Perhaps most importantly, these programmes create a lasting leadership ecosystem. Previous scholarship recipients return as mentors and moderators, sharing their experiences with new cohorts and demonstrating how investment in education creates a continuous cycle of learning, collaboration and leadership.

As IAPCO continues to expand its global education strategy, one principle remains unchanged: excellence is not achieved by chance – it is developed through knowledge, collaboration and investment in people.

Because when emerging leaders are empowered, the entire profession moves forward.

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2026 IAPCO & FIEXPO EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAMME – LATAM & JORGE CASTEX SCHOLARSHIP A STRONG START FOR LATIN AMERICA’S FUTURE LEADERS

THE VISION BEHIND THE PROGRAMME

When the IAPCO & FIEXPO Emerging Leaders Programme – LATAM was launched earlier this year, it represented an exciting new chapter in IAPCO’s commitment to developing leadership across the global meetings industry. Just a few months later, the programme has already exceeded expectations.

In this short video, Jimena Ruiz, IAPCO Council Member, IAPCO Training Academy Regional Representative for Latin America, and Chief of Staff at BTC Americas, introduces the 2026 IAPCO & FIEXPO Emerging Leaders Programme – LATAM.

The response from the region has been exceptional, with 49 applications received for just 15 available places, demonstrating both the depth of emerging talent across Latin America and the Caribbean and the strong demand for structured professional development.

She shares the vision behind the initiative, outlines the participants’ educational journey, and explains how the programme is designed to empower, support and inspire the next generation of meetings industry leaders across Latin America and the Caribbean.

Delivered by the IAPCO Training Academy in partnership with FIEXPO, and with the support of IAPCO Accredited Member BTC Americas and their platform BTC Connects, the programme brings together emerging professionals from PCOs and DMCs for a unique leadership journey.

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APPLICATIONS RECIEVED

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PLACES AVALIABLE

Watch Jimena’s introduction below – available in both English and Spanish.

ENGLISH

FROM ACROSS LATIN AMERICA & THE CARIBBEAN

Through expert-led sessions, participants are strengthening their leadership capabilities, expanding their professional networks and gaining practical insights to help shape the future of the meetings industry.

SPANISH

The overwhelming interest confirms what IAPCO and FIEXPO strongly believe: investing in people is one of the most effective ways to strengthen organisations, destinations and the wider business events community.

The programme will culminate in the prestigious Jorge Castex Scholarship, named in honour of the former IAPCO President, former Chair of the IAPCO Training Academy, and one of Latin America’s most respected meetings industry leaders. Upon completion of the programme, one outstanding participant will be awarded complimentary access to ACE I, the first level of IAPCO’s Accredited Conference Expert (ACE) programme.

‘This initiative reflects IAPCO and FIEXPO’s shared commitment to investing in people, professional development and the future of the meetings industry. Together, we can continue building the skills, connections and leadership our industry needs for the future.’

Jimena Ruiz Jimena Ruiz, IAPCO Council Member, IAPCO Training Academy Regional Representative for LATAM, and Chief of Staff at BTC Americas

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| IAPCO NEWS ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

2026 IAPCO & NZICC EMERGING LEADERS PROGRAMME – APAC AND THE JAN TONKIN SCHOLARSHIP A LEADERSHIP JOURNEY THAT CREATES LASTING IMPACT Developing Asia-Pacific's next generation of meetings industry leaders.

Now in its third year, the 2026 IAPCO & NZICC Emerging Leaders Programme – APAC and the Jan Tonkin Scholarship has become one of the flagship initiatives of the IAPCO Training Academy, demonstrating how strategic partnerships and investment in education create lasting value for individuals, organisations and the wider business events community.

Developed in partnership with the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) and supported by IAPCO Accredited Member The Conference Company Ltd, the programme brings together emerging professionals from IAPCO Member companies across Asia-Pacific for six interactive online leadership sessions designed to develop the skills needed to lead with confidence in a rapidly evolving industry.

Participants explore leadership, governance, financial strategy, stakeholder engagement, communication and decision-making while building meaningful relationships with peers, experienced faculty and senior industry leaders from across the global meetings community.

The programme culminates in the prestigious Jan Tonkin Scholarship, awarded to one outstanding participant each year. Named in honour of former IAPCO President and former Chair of the IAPCO Training Academy, Jan Tonkin MNZM, the scholarship provides the opportunity to attend the IAPCO Annual Meeting & General Assembly 2027 in Mumbai, India, connecting emerging leaders with the international IAPCO community and inspiring the next stage of their professional journey.

Today, the programme is creating more than future leaders – it is building a growing community of professionals committed to learning, collaboration and Unlocking Excellence across the meetings industry.

Honouring a Legacy.

Inspiring the Future.

Named in honour of former IAPCO President and former Chair of the IAPCO Training Academy Jan Tonkin MNZM, the scholarship celebrates a career dedicated to education, leadership and raising professional standards across the global meetings industry.

Each year, it recognises an emerging leader who embodies these same values while encouraging continued learning, collaboration and contribution to the profession.

Building a Leadership Legacy "The Emerging Leaders Programme is designed to do more than deliver education in the moment. Its purpose is to create a leadership pathway that strengthens professional standards, builds confidence and keeps emerging talent connected to the IAPCO community over time.

Seeing previous Jan Tonkin Scholarship recipients return as moderators is a powerful example of that impact. It shows how investment in education creates a cycle of learning, leadership and contribution."

Stephen Noble IAPCO Council Member & Chair, IAPCO Training Academy, and General Manager at The Conference Company

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‘Our partnership with IAPCO is founded on a shared belief that developing people is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in the future of our industry. By working together, we are helping to build leadership capability across the Asia-Pacific region, equipping emerging professionals with the skills, confidence and international perspective needed to drive our sector forward.

By investing in future leaders today, we are contributing to the continued growth, resilience and capability of the Asia-Pacific business events industry.’

Alana Bicknell

Director of Sales, New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC)

Building a Leadership Legacy

2026 Programme Moderators

A defining strength of the IAPCO & NZICC Emerging Leaders Programme – APAC is its impact beyond the programme itself.

Both 2026 Programme Moderators are previous Jan Tonkin Scholarship recipients who have returned to support the next generation of emerging leaders. Their continued involvement demonstrates how the programme creates an ongoing cycle of learning, leadership and contribution within the IAPCO community.

Pooja Menon Senior Manager – International Sales, IA Meetings

Shimal Jaykant Conference & Events Manager, Medical Conference Partners

2025 Jan Tonkin Scholarship Recipient

2026 Jan Tonkin Scholarship Recipient

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A Partnership with Purpose

The Programme Journey - From emerging professional to future industry leader The programme is designed as a progressive leadership pathway, combining practical education, peer learning and international engagement. Each stage builds on the previous one, equipping participants with the skills, confidence and network to become future leaders within the meetings profession.

Programme at a Glance Who can participate?

Programme format

Key learning themes

The Jan Tonkin Scholarship

Employees of IAPCO Member companies across the AsiaPacific region.

Six live online leadership sessions delivered by international faculty and industry experts.

• Leadership capability • Governance • Stakeholder engagement • Financial strategy • Strategic communication • Decision-making

One outstanding participant receives complimentary registration, accommodation and return economy flights to attend the IAPCO Annual Meeting & General Assembly 2027 in Mumbai, India.

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

APAIE 2026: Showcasing the Strength of APAC Collaboration

From 23–27 February 2026, MCI Australia delivered the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) Conference and Exhibition in Hong Kong, reinforcing the Asia-Pacific’s growing role as a global events hub. Convening global higher education leaders, policymakers and industry professionals, the event set new benchmarks for the series, including achieving record attendance, the largest exhibition to date and broader regional diversity and international reach.

Beyond scale and programme delivery, APAIE 2026 was designed to showcase the depth, diversity and cultural vibrancy of the Asia-Pacific region, with Hong Kong’s local culture intentionally embedded throughout the delegate experience. From the outset, the opening ceremony set a powerful regional tone, with a traditional lion dance andeyedotting ritual symbolising strength, prosperity and shared success across the Asia-Pacific community.

APAIE 2026 welcomed over 3,500 participants from across the Asia Pacific and beyond, to come together and explore the theme ‘Asia-Pacific Partnerships for the Global Good’. Over three days, attendees enjoyed more than 120 presentations alongside three plenary sessions, whilst exploring the high impact, high energy exhibition comprising 600+ participating organisations.

In addition, 2026 saw the launch of APAIE's brand new initiative – the APAIE Theatre. Offering a new, high-visibility content format within the exhibition environment, seven theatre sessions took place, giving partners the opportunity to provide insights and share ideas with more than 350 attendees.​ While the scale of the event was significant, its true impact reflects a broader regional shift, where collaboration, cultural intelligence and authentic representation are becoming central to event design.

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APAIE 2026 – Exhibition Floor

This focus on regional identity continued at the welcome reception, where delegates were immersed in a curated marketplace of culturally inspired experiences – from Chinese calligraphy and sugar art to Fai Chun screen printing and paper art – offering authentic insight into the host destination. These moments created shared reference points that strengthened connection across a highly international and diverse audience.

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APAIE 2026 – Tai Chi Session

APAIE 2026 – Exhibition Hall Waffle Station

Throughout the programme, place-based experiences reinforced APAC’s unique ability to connect people through culture – from harbourfront wellness activities such as Tai Chi and morning runs, to locally inspired food activations on the exhibition floor, where more than 2,400 egg waffles were enjoyed. Extending beyond the venue, eight post-conference campus tours reached capacity, showcasing leading regional institutions and further strengthening connections across the Asia-Pacific’s international education landscape.

APAIE 2026 demonstrated how APAC events leverage culture not as an add-on, but as a strategic tool to drive connection, engagement and long-term collaboration. Breaking historical event records, it reinforced the Asia-Pacific’s role not just as a host of global events, but as a region redefining how events are designed, experienced and delivered.

Stephan Wurzinger, Managing Director PCO, MCI Australia Pty Ltd | MCI Group

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| IAPCO NEWS

Dear Destinations. Dear Associations. Real Impact.

ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

IAPCO’s Dear Destinations and Dear Associations campaigns continue to highlight the transformative impact of IAPCO Accredited PCOs, the associations they support, and the destinations they collaborate with.

Through outstanding collaboration, innovation, and measurable results, these partnerships are advancing the meetings industry and creating lasting value for communities around the world.

Explore the latest case studies below to discover how IAPCO Members are driving meaningful impact—with more inspiring success stories to come.

IAPCO Member: Triumph Italy Client: Italian Society of Statistical Physics (SIFS) Event: 29th International Conference on Statistical Physics (StatPhys29) Date: 13-18 July 2025 Location: Florence, Italy StatPhys29: The World’s Leading Statistical Physicists Return to Florence More than 75 years after the first STATPHYS conference was held in Florence in 1949, the world’s leading statistical physicists returned to the city where the series began.

StatPhys29 – the 29th International Conference on Statistical Physics – brought together 1,583 scientists from 59 countries, reaffirming the event’s status as the premier global gathering for the field. Hosted at Palazzo degli Affari and Palazzo dei Congressi, the congress explored cutting-edge developments in statistical physics and its rapidly expanding influence across disciplines including complex systems, biological physics, machine learning, climate science, soft matter and quantum fluids.

Organised under the auspices of the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) and co-organised by the Italian Society of Statistical Physics (SIFS), the event featured 9 plenary lectures, 59 invited speakers and 388 oral presentations, alongside satellite symposia, poster sessions and public engagement initiatives.

The scientific programme featured major moments of international recognition, including the opening lecture by Nobel Laureate Giorgio Parisi. The prestigious Boltzmann Medal, one of the highest honours in statistical physics, was awarded to Mehran Kardar and Yoshiki Kuramoto, while the IUPAP Young Scientist Prizes recognised emerging leaders shaping the future of the field.

Beyond the scientific programme, StatPhys29 demonstrated the wider impact of international congresses – fostering global collaboration, engaging local communities and reinforcing Florence’s role as a leading destination for scientific exchange.

Testimonials 'StatPhys29 was a remarkable opportunity to welcome the international statistical physics community back to Florence.

Triumph Italy's professionalism and coordination enabled us to deliver a complex programme while creating an outstanding experience for delegates from around the world.'

Prof. Roberto Livi President, Italian Society of Statistical Physics (SIFS) 'This edition of the flagship conference series in statistical physics broke all previous records, both in terms of participation and presentations. Triumph's meticulous preparation, flawless management of technical requirements and professional handling of every challenge ensured more than 1,500 participants could fully enjoy an outstanding scientific programme.'

Prof. János Kertész Chair, Statistical Physics Commission, IUPAP 'The work of Triumph Italy was exceptional. Managing a conference of this scale is no small task, yet every aspect—from the scientific programme to the social events—was delivered flawlessly, creating a truly inspiring and memorable experience.'

Prof. Silvina Ponce Dawson, Ph.D. President International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) www.statphys29.org

Dear Associations...

You have a message waiting at Iapco.org

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Frankfurt Delivers a Landmark Week for Sibos 2025 In 2025, Frankfurt am Main hosted the largest ever in-person Sibos gathering, welcoming more than 12,500 registered participants from 168 countries to Messe Frankfurt. Organised by Swift, Sibos brings together leaders from banking, payments, technology, fintech, central banks and market infrastructure.

Under the theme ‘The Next Frontiers of Global Finance’, Sibos 2025 featured more than 700 speakers, 280 sessions and 200 exhibitors, focused on innovation, digital currencies, payments, interoperability, ESG and compliance.

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IAPCO Convention Centre Partner: Messe Frankfurt Client: Swift Event: Sibos 2025 Date: 29 September – 2 October 2025 Location: Messe Frankfurt, Frankfurt am Main, Germany

As an IAPCO Convention Centre Partner, Messe Frankfurt connects PCOs with flexible, accessible and highperforming venue infrastructure that supports international associations. The event was a landmark demonstration of how a destination can position itself early, collaborate deeply and convert a global opportunity into measurable economic, social, cultural and reputational impact. The journey began more than a decade before the event, reflecting the long-term relationship building, persistence and strategic alignment required to secure major rotating congresses.

Sibos occupied Messe Frankfurt's eastern exhibition grounds, including the Congress Centre, Forum, Hall 1 and Hall 3, integrating conference, exhibition and networking across a connected venue environment. Supported by the Frankfurt Convention Bureau, IAPCO destination partner, and the wider city network, the experience extended from airport arrival to public transport, hotels, city activations, receptions and post-event community outcomes.

Testimonials ‘Collaborating with the IAPCO community is a valuable asset for us. As Convention Centre Partner, we stay close to key clients, gain operational insights into evolving needs within the international PCO industry and contribute the venue perspective. A true win-win for both sides.’

Eva Klinger Director Sales & Marketing Guest Events, Messe Frankfurt ‘Sibos was my last in-person client meeting before lockdown – and the first after. Bringing Sibos to Frankfurt reflected years of patience, trust and collaboration. With Messe Frankfurt, Swift, the Frankfurt Convention Bureau and local partners aligned, we delivered a secure, sustainable and seamless experience for the global financial community.’

Christine Spitzenberg Sales Manager, Messe Frankfurt www.sibos.com

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Find all the published case studies here If you are an IAPCO Member, Destination Partner or a client of an IAPCO Member, we invite you to share your success stories and showcase the impact of collaboration across our industry.

As part of the next phase of IAPCO’s advocacy activity, we are looking for case studies that demonstrate how IAPCO PCOs work together with clients, associations and destinations to deliver meaningful outcomes and lasting value. Some submissions may also be featured across multiple IAPCO campaigns.

Details on how to submit your case study are available on the Member Hub here*.

We encourage all IAPCO Members to get behind this initiative, share it with your teams and clients, and help amplify the message across our community.

Member access only. Non-members: please contact IAPCO.

Dear Destinations and Policymakers, You have a message waiting at Iapco.org

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IAPCO Brings the Voice of the Global PCO Community to the ICCA Mediterranean and France– Benelux Chapter Meeting IAPCO was proud to participate in the 2026 ICCA Mediterranean and France–Benelux Chapter Meeting in Thessaloniki, Greece, providing an important platform to bring the voice of its global membership into conversations shaping the future of the meetings industry.

As strategic partners, IAPCO and ICCA share a long-standing commitment to advancing the global business events sector through collaboration, knowledge exchange and advocacy, creating opportunities to address the challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

IAPCO President Sissi Lignou with GainingEdge CEO Steen Jakobsen and Boardroom Magazine's Chief Editor, Remi Deve.

During the discussion, Sissi presented key findings from the IAPCO Global Socio-Political Impact Survey Update 2026, led by IAPCO and delivered in partnership with AIPC, AMC Institute, IFES, ICCA and PCMA. The survey provided valuable insights into the geopolitical, economic and operational challenges affecting meetings and events worldwide, while reinforcing the resilience, adaptability and strategic value of the global PCO community.

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IAPCO President Sissi Lignou with ICCA CEO Dr Senthil Gopinath and ICCA Senior Regional Director Europe, Efi Koudeli

The session also demonstrated the importance of industry collaboration. By combining perspectives, expertise and research through strategic partnerships, organisations can more effectively advocate for the meetings industry and ensure the collective voice of their communities is represented in the conversations shaping its future.

Representing IAPCO, President Sissi Lignou joined as a guest panellist for ‘Navigating the Storm: Crisis, Resilience and the New Reality in the Global Meetings Industry,’ alongside Steen Jakobsen, CEO of GainingEdge, in a session moderated by Remi Deve, Chief Editor of Boardroom Magazine.

Through opportunities such as the ICCA Mediterranean and France–Benelux Chapter Meeting, IAPCO continues #UnlockingAdvocacy, championing the interests of its global membership and reinforcing the essential role of PCOs in delivering impactful, resilient and sustainable business events.

Connecting with trusted partners and navigating an increasingly complex global landscape has become an essential part of delivering successful international meetings and congresses. To support this, IAPCO has launched two new interactive global maps that provide practical resources for members, clients, associations and industry stakeholders alike.

Explore the IAPCO global community The new IAPCO Global Community Map builds on the former IAPCO Member Map, expanding it into a richer resource that showcases the strength of IAPCO's international network. Users can search by country or region to identify IAPCO Accredited PCOs alongside IAPCO's growing community of destination, convention centre and strategic partners. Whether planning an event in a new market, seeking trusted local expertise or exploring collaboration opportunities, the map offers an easy way to connect with organisations committed to the highest standards of quality and professionalism. Designed to encourage stronger global partnerships, the map reflects the breadth and diversity of the IAPCO community while making valuable industry connections more accessible than ever.

Supporting compliance worldwide Alongside the community map, IAPCO has also introduced the Global Pharma and MedTech Compliance Map – a

valuable new resource for organisers delivering medical and healthcare congresses. The interactive map brings together national, European and international compliance organisations in one easily searchable location, helping organisers identify the relevant bodies and guidelines that support compliant event delivery across different markets. Developed as part of IAPCO's broader compliance strategy, the resource serves two important purposes: helping members access trusted compliance information more efficiently, while also strengthening IAPCO's ongoing advocacy and engagement with the organisations shaping compliance across the global healthcare meetings sector.

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Mapping Global Connections: New IAPCO resources strengthen collaboration and compliance across the international meetings industry

Connecting a global industry Together, these new digital resources reinforce IAPCO's commitment to supporting excellence across the meetings industry – not only through education and standards, but by making knowledge, expertise and trusted networks more accessible. Whether you are looking to build new partnerships, identify experienced professionals or better understand compliance requirements in different regions, the new maps provide practical tools to support confident decision-making in an increasingly connected global events landscape.

Explore the maps IAPCO Global Community Map Connect with Accredited PCOs and IAPCO's global network of partners.

Global Pharma and MedTech Compliance Map Access national and international compliance organisations supporting medical and healthcare meetings.

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| IAPCO NEWS ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

Welcoming Our Newest IAPCO Member NEW MEMBER – THINK BUSINESS EVENTS

IAPCO is delighted to introduce Think Business Events as the newest Accredited Member of our global network.

For over twenty years, Think Business Events has partnered with associations, government, and industry leaders to design conferences that matter: events that balance strategic outcomes with strong commercial performance and flawless detailed delivery.

As a PCO their work is defined by the strength of their DNA: THINK - strategic mindset. By defining purpose, outcomes and goals, then designing experiences with impact.

BUSINESS - commercial strength. Built on transparency, financial insight and deep industry relationships.

EVENTS – craft. Each delegate experience is seamless, engaging and memorable.

They thrive in complex, high-stakes environments, bringing their knowledge and relentless focus on detail to every stage of the conference journey. Their commitment is simple: to protect and elevate their clients’ brands by delivering conferences that stand out, connect communities and shape lasting impact.

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'Becoming an IAPCO Member is a significant milestone for us and something we’re genuinely proud of – particularly as it coincides with our twenty-year anniversary as a company. It recognises the depth of our experience and the standards we hold ourselves to, while opening the door to new opportunities, global collaboration and continued growth. Our team is energised by what’s ahead and excited to be part of a community of leading professionals setting the benchmark for our industry,' said Denise Broeren, Co-Founder and Director of Business Development, Think Business Events.

We extend a warm welcome to Think Business Events and look forward to collaborating as we continue to drive #UnlockingExcellence across the global meetings industry.

NEW PARTNER - TÜRKİYE TOURISM PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT AGENCY

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Welcoming Our New Destination Partner

Group image at IAPCO Annual Meeting and General Assembly in Athens, including (from left to right): Veli Aydın – Cultural and Tourism Attaché of the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Culture and Tourism in Athens, Dr. Elif Balcı Fisunoğlu – Deputy General Manager of TGA, Sissi Lignou – President of IAPCO, Martin Boyle – CEO of IAPCO

IAPCO has welcomed the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency (TGA) as a new Destination Partner, further strengthening IAPCO’s global meetings industry network.

The partnership marks a significant step in Türkiye’s international MICE strategy, connecting the destination directly with IAPCO’s global network of accredited Professional Congress Organisers (PCOs), industry leaders and decision-makers.

As destinations compete globally for high-value international meetings and congresses, collaboration between convention bureaux and IAPCO Accredited PCOs has become increasingly important in shaping successful bids, enhancing participant experience and delivering long-term economic and knowledge legacy.

Reflecting on the partnership, Sissi Lignou, President of IAPCO said, ‘Türkiye has demonstated strong momentum and ambitition within the global meetings industry, supported by ongoing investment in infrastructure, accessibility and international engagement.

‘This partnership is a valuable addition to the IAPCO Destination Partner community, and we look forward to strengthening collaboration with TGA and Türkiye’s wider business events ecosystem.’

Dr. Elif Balcı Fisunoğlu, Deputy General Manager of TGA, said, ‘TGA becoming an IAPCO Destination Partner represents an important milestone in our international growth strategy and reflects the rising power of Türkiye in the global MICE sector.

‘This partnership provides an important opportunity to directly showcase Türkiye’s unique blend of accessibility, world-class inrastructure, hospitality and cultural richness to a global network of event decision-makers. Through closer collaboration with IAPCO and its members, we aim to further strengthen Türkiye’s competitiveness and visibility within the international meetings landscape.’

The partnership will also support greater collaboration across advocacy, sustainability and professional excellence initiatives, reinforcing Türkiye’s role in the continued advancement of the global meetings industry.

As part of its long-term MICE strategy, TGA has launched ‘MeetingInTürkiye’, a dedicated digial platform under the MeetTürkiye brand. The plaform provides international organisers with integrated congress support, destination insights and access to Türkiye’s meeting and event capabilities.

With state-of-the-art infrastructure, strong international connectivity and a rapidly growing reputation for hosting major congresses and association meetings, Türkiye continues to strengthen its position as a leading global meetings destination.

According to International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) 2024 data provided by TGA, Istanbul ranked eighth worldwide among cities hosting medical and healthcare congresses, highlighting its strong academic infrastructure and role as a regional knowledge hub.

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| IAPCO NEWS ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

Welcoming Our New Destination Partner NEW PARTNER – BUSINESS EVENTS AUSTRALIA

Group image at IMEX Frankfurt 2026, including (from left to right): Kelly Maynard – General Manager, Business Events, Commercial & Industry, Business Events Australia; Martin Boyle – CEO, IAPCO; Sissi Lignou – President, IAPCO; and Robin Mack – Managing Director, Tourism Australia

IAPCO has welcomed Business Events Australia as its newest Destination Partner, marking the next phase of a strategic collaboration that brings together destination engagement, sustainability, education and the continued advancement of the global meetings industry.

‘This is a partnership built on shared values and long-term purpose. By bringing together destination expertise, education and sustainability leadership, we are creating meaningful value for our members and contributing to the continued development of the global meetings industry.

The new two-year Destination Partnership will strengthen Business Events Australia’s connection with IAPCO’s global community of accredited Professional Congress Organisers (PCOs), creating opportunities for targeted content, educational programmes, knowledge exchange and destination insight.

Through the partnership, Business Events Australia will engage with international decision-makers and showcase Australia’s capability as a destination for high-value international association conferences and business events.

‘Business Events Australia has demonstrated a clear commitment to working with IAPCO to advance our sustainability objectives, while also creating opportunities for our accredited PCO community to engage with Australia’s exceptional business events offering.’

The agreement builds on an existing relationship, with Business Events Australia continuing its support of the IAPCO Sustainability Programme, which commenced in October 2025.

Under the expanded collaboration, the sustainability component will continue into years two and three of the programme, alongside the new two-year Destination Partnership.

This broader strategic collaboration reflects the evolution of the relationship between IAPCO and Business Events Australia, and reinforces a shared commitment to responsible event delivery, professional development and long-term industry impact. It also recognises Business Events Australia’s long-term support of IAPCO’s sustainability objectives and its commitment to contributing to the future of responsible business events globally.

Key initiatives delivered through IAPCO’s Sustainability Programme include the launch of IAPCO’s Sustainability Strategy, the presentation of the inaugural IAPCO Sustainability Award, supported by Business Events Australia and presented at the 2026 Annual Meeting & General Assembly in Athens, and the development of the IAPCO Sustainability Toolkit: a practical resource designed to help PCOs embed environmental and social responsibility into event delivery.

Sissi Lignou, President of IAPCO, said the partnership represents a natural progression of IAPCO’s relationship with Business Events Australia. ‘Business Events Australia’s appointment as an IAPCO Destination Partner reflects the strength of our collaboration and a shared commitment to shaping the future of the meetings industry.’

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Sally Cope, Executive General Manager Industry and Business Events at Tourism Australia, said, ‘We are thrilled to be strengthening our relationship with IAPCO by becoming a Destination Partner, enabling us to showcase Australia’s exceptional business event capabilities through targeted content and educational programmes.

‘Building on the strong foundation of our Sustainability Partnership, this broader collaboration gives us a valuable platform to engage with IAPCO's global network and ensures Australia's diverse destinations and business events experiences are top-of-mind for PCOs around the world.’

As a Destination Partner, Business Events Australia will engage directly with IAPCO’s international network, sharing destination expertise and highlighting Australia’s capability, creativity and breadth as a host destination for international conferences and business events.

The partnership will also support continued collaboration around sustainability, legacy and industry best practice, helping IAPCO members access practical insight, resources and destination expertise that support more responsible conference and meeting delivery.

Underpinned by its strategic pillars of Community, Education and Advocacy, IAPCO continues to champion the profession, inspire excellence and unlock new possibilities in conference and meeting delivery worldwide.

IAPCO Members, Ambassadors and Partners Driving Leadership, Innovation and Growth The Asia-Pacific region continues to shape the future of the global meetings and events industry.

Home to some of the world's most dynamic economies, diverse cultures and rapidly evolving event markets, APAC is driving innovation, embracing new approaches to collaboration and leaving a lasting impact on the international business events landscape.

As part of our commitment to showcasing the global reach and impact of the IAPCO community, each issue of The PCO highlights a different region of the world. Through the voices of our members, ambassadors and partners, we explore the trends, opportunities and challenges shaping local markets and influencing the future of our industry.

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Highlighting APAC

In this issue, we shine a spotlight on the Asia-Pacific region – a vibrant and diverse market where innovation, resilience and collaboration continue to drive growth. From leadership development and evolving client expectations to sustainability and the expansion of international meetings, APAC offers valuable perspectives for business events professionals around the world.

The following pages feature insights from IAPCO Ambassadors across the region, who share their expertise, experiences and vision for the future of the meetings industry in Asia-Pacific. Reflecting on this issue's theme, Innovation and Agility, they also explore how organisations and professionals across the region are adapting to change, embracing innovation and building resilience in an increasingly dynamic global environment.

The section concludes with a curated collection of seven video conversations featuring IAPCO members and destination partners, highlighting how APAC is contributing to #UnlockingExcellence and advancing #UnlockingAdvocacy across the global meetings and events industry.

The Ambassador | Spotlight Featuring IAPCO Ambassadors from the Asia-Pacific Region Mona Abdul Manap (Malaysia) • Ikuko Nishimura (Japan) • Amit Saroj (India) • Chris Oh (South Korea) The Ambassador Spotlight is a recurring feature in The PCO, celebrating the expertise, leadership and diverse perspectives of IAPCO Ambassadors from across the globe.

As trusted representatives of IAPCO within their regions, our ambassadors play an important role in strengthening industry connections, championing best practices and supporting the continued advancement of the global meetings community. Through their leadership, professional journeys and regional insights, they offer valuable perspectives on the opportunities, challenges and innovations shaping today's business events landscape.

In this APAC edition, we hear from four distinguished industry leaders whose experiences span some of the region's most dynamic meetings markets. Together, they share their perspectives on the future of business events across Asia-Pacific and reflect on Innovation and Agility, exploring how emerging technologies, evolving leadership and human-centred thinking are helping shape a more resilient and forward-looking industry.

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| IAPCO NEWS

Meet the | New Ambassador

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Ikuko Nishimura Japan Corporate Executive Officer, MICE Business Strategic Planning Headquarters, Congrès Inc.

Ikuko Nishimura is a leading professional in the meetings and events industry, serving as Corporate Executive Officer of the MICE Business Strategic Planning Headquarters at Congrès Inc., Japan’s premier PCO. As a key figure driving the nation's MICE sector, Ikuko brings a proven track record in executing major governmental, scientific and academic meetings within Japan – a top-tier destination ranked 6th globally and 1st in the Asia-Pacific region in the 2025 ICCA statistics.

Since joining Congrès Inc. in 2003, Ikuko has built a distinguished career, continuously developing the leadership and expertise that led to her

current executive position. Currently, she oversees the strategic planning and management of international conferences across diverse domains.

Notably, she played a pivotal role in the success of high-profile global events, including the G7 Hiroshima Summit (2023).

Dedicated to advancing the Japanese MICE industry, Ikuko serves as an Advisory Board Member for the Tokyo Convention and Visitors Bureau (TCVB) and a Planning Committee Member for the Japan Congress Convention Bureau (JCCB). As a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP), she has delivered numerous lectures on international conference management at universities and seminars across Japan, leveraging her extensive expertise to inspire and nurture the next generation of industry talent.

Meet the | Ambassador Amit Saroj India CEO, IA-Meetings and Co-Opted Council Member, IAPCO

Amit Saroj serves as a Co-Opted IAPCO Council Member in his role as one of the hosts of AM&GA 2027.

Amit Saroj is a Graduate in Commerce from Delhi University. He started his career in the hospitality sector, spending five years working in sales and marketing for hotels. He started ‘Attitude Events Private Limited’ in 2000, with a vision of building a leading conference organising company.

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Amit is a Governing Board member of ICPB and a conference specialist in the MICE Industry with over twenty five years of extensive experience, He continues to lead the company, presently operating as ‘IA Meetings’ in India, Singapore, Dubai and Germany.

In his current role he looks after international expansion, development goals of people, infrastructure and technological advancement in the organisation.

Chris Oh South Korea Managing Director, Korea, MCI Group

Chris has worked as Managing Director of MCI Korea in Seoul, South Korea for more than fifteen years. During that time, he has provided the clients with various solutions by convention and conference management, corporates meetings and events, and association management and consulting.

He was awarded the Best International Conference Organiser by the Seoul Metropolitan Government in 2024, recognising the success of MCI Korea’s

longstanding strategy of focusing on International Conferences.

He also provided AMC services for ASAE in Korea for a decade, which contributed to the establishment of KSAE in the country.

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Meet the | Ambassador

Before he joined MCI, he primarily worked in sales and marketing at Korean air and later serving as Marketing Director for the Americas. His last position was Vice President, Passenger Business.

Meet the | Ambassador Mona Abdul Manap Malaysia Co-Founder and CEO, Borneo Sdn Bhd

Mona holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and Management from Curtin University of Technology, Australia, and an MBA in Entrepreneurship from Kuala Lumpur.

She began her career in banking managing ladies banking products, where she developed marketing campaigns and trained staff on new products nationwide. Returning to Kuching, Mona entered the tourism industry, managing a travel agency and later leading the Aiman group of companies, which included a resort, business consultancy, and conference management.

Mona then co-founded Place Borneo Sdn Bhd, a PCO, which became the first East Malaysian firm accredited by IAPCO

Her experience since 2005 spans restaurant management, teaching, sales, product marketing, new product development, DMC operations, hotel management, tours, bidding, congress management and event marketing.

Mona is also actively involved in non-profit and community work and currently holds these positions: • • •

Vice President for Education, Malaysian Association of Conference & Exhibition Organisers & Suppliers President, Sarawak Birdwatching Association Environmental Regional Chair, Rotary District 3310

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| IAPCO NEWS

Innovation & Agility in Focus

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Innovation and Agility: Staying Ahead in an AI-Driven World A Conversation with Ikuko Nishimura How is AI reshaping the congress and events industry in your region today?

Today, AI is fundamentally shifting the core value of PCOs from traditional, labour-intensive operations to the human judgement, strategic thinking and experience design. In Japan, while we are in the initial stages of this transition, AI is already enabling us to focus more on strategic planning and higher-value services. In particular, AI-powered real-time translation tools are beginning to break down long-standing language barriers for international congresses held in our region.

What does ‘agility’ mean for PCOs in 2026?

In 2026, agility means much more than simply working quickly. It is the proactive ability to continuously refine decisions and adapt to rapid changes while elevating the quality and long-term sustainability of the events we deliver. For PCOs, it requires the resilience to respond flexibly to technological, social and clientdriven changes without losing sight of an event’s core purpose. True agility is the capacity to integrate these complex shifts and transform them into deeper, more enduring value.

Do you see AI primarily as a disruption, an opportunity or both?

I see AI as a form of creative disruption. While it standardises and automates many traditional administrative workflows, it simultaneously clarifies the high-value areas that only human professionals can provide. It serves as a tremendous opportunity to redefine our services and strengthen our role as strategic value partners.

What leadership qualities are most important in an AI-driven business environment?

In an AI-driven environment, leaders must be able to discern true human value beyond mere efficiency metrics. Technology can optimise processes, but strong leadership is essential to foster empathy, creativity, judgement and a shared sense of purpose.

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Effective leadership is about aligning these human strengths and translating them into exceptional event value.

What skills will future congress organisers need most?

Future PCOs will require a hybrid skill set. Practical AI literacy will be a fundamental prerequisite. To successfully transition from operators to designers of value, PCOs will also need strong validation skills to critically assess AI outputs, sophisticated experience design capabilities and high-level consulting skills to guide clients strategically.

What will congresses look like five years from now?

Five years from now, the operational and logistical aspects of congresses are likely to become far more streamlined, heavily supported by automation. In contrast, the in-person event experience is expected to evolve into something deeper, more immersive and distinctly human-centric. As operational complexity is increasingly absorbed by AI, congresses will be anticipated to deliver deeper value: more meaningful dialogue, stronger emotional engagement, richer networking and experiences that genuinely resonate with participants.

If you could give one piece of advice to industry leaders right now, navigating change, what would it be?

My advice is to actively explore these technologies yourself and use this transitional period to redefine the irreplaceable value that your organisation brings to the table. True leadership means understanding AI’s potential, recognising what only humans can provide and embracing the transformation from logistics providers to strategic value partners in order to secure a sustainable future for the industry.

Innovation, Agility, and the Human Side of AI: A Reflection for PCO Leaders On Point Perspective by Chris Oh For PCO leaders, AI is no longer a distant prospect. It is already replacing how we plan, communicate and deliver events. From content development and participant engagement to operational efficiency and reporting, AI presents significant opportunities. Yet in an industry where execution relies on precision, relationships and trust, technology alone is never enough. What matters is how thoughtfully we adopt it –whether in ways that strengthen the organisation rather than disrupt it.

In my view, succeeding in today’s AI-driven environment calls for a broader and more integrated set of capabilities.

Among them, innovation and agility have become particularly important. Innovation helps translate AI from an interesting possibility into practical value, while agility enables us to respond as client expectations, technologies and working models continue to evolve. For PCO leaders, these are not standalone qualities, but part of the broader leadership capability required to remain relevant, resilient and competitive in a rapidly changing market.

Why agility matters more than speed Recent research suggests that workforce agility is a decisive factor in successful AI-driven transformation – not because agile organisations necessarily possess better technology, but because they adjust more effectively as conditions change. For PCOs, this is especially relevant.

Our environment is defined by shifting client needs, compressed timelines and constant operational complexity.

In that context, agility is not simply about speed; it is about responsiveness without losing direction.

In practice, agility means sensing change early, reallocating resources quickly and adapting ways of working without creating confusion. In an AI-driven world, where tools and expectations evolve rapidly, that responsiveness becomes a survival capability. For our sector, staying ahead will depend less on adopting the most tools first and more on how effectively we learn, adjust and mobilise our teams.

Innovation becomes valuable only when people move with it Research also suggests that AI strengthens organisational resilience most effectively when it is supported by innovation, agility and leadership. AI alone does not make an organisation stronger. Its value emerges when leaders translate technological potential into better decisions, improved workflows and new ways of creating value.

Innovation, in this sense, becomes the bridge between technology and resilience.

I learned this through experience. About three years ago, when AI was beginning to attract serious attention, I explored how it might be applied to congress management.

I thought it could improve efficiency and enhance the way we manage and deliver congresses. Yet progress stalled for a time because the team had not yet developed enough shared understanding, confidence or voluntary engagement. That experience taught me that innovation often slows not because of technological limitations,

but because people have not yet been given the clarity or confidence to move with it. This is why I believe the conversation about AI in the PCO industry must remain deeply human. Our business depends on coordination, judgment, service mindset and trust. If teams do not understand why change matters, progress inevitably slows.

But when people begin to see practical value in their own work, momentum builds. That is when innovation starts to strengthen resilience, because the organisation becomes more capable of adapting together rather than reacting in fragments.

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Innovation & Agility in Focus

For leaders, this creates three practical priorities: • Create understanding before expecting adoption by showing how AI can support real work in congress management.

• Encourage participation rather than compliance so innovation becomes shared rather than imposed.

• Connect experimentation to strategy so AI strengthens resilience, service quality and competitiveness.

What this means for PCO leaders For PCO leaders, the challenge is not simply to adopt AI, but to lead the behavioural and operational shift that comes with it. That means creating room for learning, making experimentation safe and guiding teams with both urgency and patience. AI adoption may demand speed, but sustainable transformation depends on trust.

• • • •

Start with business-relevant use cases that solve real operational pain points.

Build confidence through small wins that teams can experience directly.

Invest in capability building so AI is understood as a support tool.

Keep AI linked to service quality, client value, and resilience.

Leadership in the AI era is not about appearing technologically advanced. It is about helping people and organisations become more adaptive, more confident and better prepared for change. In that sense, agility and innovation are what make AI genuinely useful in practice.

Conclusion AI will continue to reshape the PCO industry, but the more important question is how we choose to lead through that change. My own experience has reminded me that innovation is not simply about introducing new tools. It is about helping people understand them, trust them and apply them in ways that strengthen the organisation.

For PCO leaders, staying ahead in an AI-driven world will depend less on how quickly we talk about AI and more on how effectively we build cultures that can learn, adapt and move together. That is where resilience becomes tangible – and where leadership makes the greatest difference.

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| IAPCO NEWS

#UnlockingAdvocacy Across APAC

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Since the launch of IAPCO's #UnlockingExcellence advocacy campaign in October 2024, IAPCO has continued to amplify the voice of PCOs and champion the value our industry creates every day.

Across the Asia-Pacific region, our members, ambassadors and partners play an important role in this global movement. Through leadership, innovation and collaboration, they are strengthening the profile of business events, inspiring future talent and demonstrating the lasting impact our profession has on communities, economies and knowledge exchange.

This collection of conversations brings together voices from across the IAPCO community, including members and destination partners, showcasing how APAC is contributing to #UnlockingExcellence and advancing #UnlockingAdvocacy.

We are also delighted to welcome Business Events Australia, IAPCO's newest Destination Partner, whose contribution highlights Australia's continued leadership as a world-class destination for international business events.

Explore the videos below to hear first-hand how APAC leaders are shaping the future of meetings and events through innovation, agility and a shared commitment to excellence.

Discover more about how IAPCO is advancing #UnlockingExcellence and #UnlockingAdvocacy across the world on the IAPCO website.

Featured Videos

From partnership to positive impact, Kelly Maynard discusses Australia’s sustainable business events future

Sarah Markey-Hamm on the IAPCO advantage, global connections, leadership and legacy

Opportunities await: Jan Tonkin on why professionals choose the IAPCO community

Alana Bicknell discusses how NZICC and IAPCO are putting New Zealand events on the global stage

Pooja Menon, 2025 Jan Tonkin Scholarship Recipient, on leadership and the value of IAPCO

Chander Mansharamani on conference planning in India and insights from 50 years in the industry

Roslyn McLeod on why IAPCO accreditation builds client trust

Discover more about how IAPCO is advancing #UnlockingExcellence and #UnlockingAdvocacy across the world on the IAPCO website.

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ON-POINT ARTICLE PARTNERS CONTRIBUTIONS | I S S U E #|1 2I S3 S2 UEED #I T1 I2O4 N E 2D I (T2I 0O 2N6 3) ( 2 0 2 6 )

İstanbul: A Global Hub for an Unparalleled Meeting Experience With over 19 million international visitors annually, the city ranks among the world’s most visited destinations.

Delegates can choose from historic and modern venues, while enjoying unique incentive experiences such as private yacht cruises, cultural workshops, and prestigious gala events. Beyond business, İstanbul offers a rich cultural landscape with historic landmarks, museums, art galleries, and UNESCO heritage sites, alongside Michelin Guide–listed gastronomy, luxury shopping, vibrant nightlife, and year-round festivals, creating unforgettable post-congress experiences.

Meetings in Türkiye: Your Next MICE Destination With world-class facilities, seamless accessibility, and a commitment to innovation, Türkiye is the ultimate destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions offering an unrivalled MICE experience, where business meets inspiration.

Reasons to choose Türkiye for your upcoming event: • Accessible for All • The Global Player in MICE Tourism • State of the Art Infrastructure • Pleasant Shopping Venues & Attractions • Tourism Knowledge Hub • Customised Service • Vibrant Tourist Spots • Culinary Experiences • Combines Past and Future • High-Quality Service with Affordable Prices

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE

Moving the Mission: How Women Deliver 2026 Redefined the Role of the PCO in the Oceanic Pacific

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From event delivery to mission delivery The brief for WD2026 was clear in its ambition. At a time when gender equality faces sustained pressure globally, the conference needed to be more than a gathering. It needed to be a safe, accessible, politically resonant and radically inclusive platform that elevated the voices of the Oceanic Pacific and centred feminist leadership within global policy dialogue.

For Arinex, this meant designing every layer of delivery around the mission of the host organisation. Accessibility, inclusion, sustainability and safeguarding were not treated as added services or compliance requirements. They were embedded as strategic pillars of the event.

Arinex | Women Deliver 2026 Conference, Narrm (Melbourne), Australia In an AI-driven world, speed, automation and data are reshaping how events are planned, delivered and measured. Yet for PCOs, the greatest shift is not technological alone. It is strategic.

Expectations are moving beyond ‘deliver my event’ to ‘move my mission’. Associations, advocacy organisations and global institutions are increasingly looking to their PCOs not only to manage logistics, but to help translate purpose into experience, complexity into confidence and convening power into lasting impact.

This approach reflects a broader shift for PCOs across the globe. Clients are increasingly asking for insight, not just implementation. They need partners who understand the wider operating environment: social expectations, destination legacy, community impact, delegate wellbeing, geopolitical sensitivities, risk, sustainability, technology and stakeholder value.

In this context, innovation is not simply the adoption of a new tool. It is the ability to redesign services around outcomes.

For Arinex, the Women Deliver 2026 Conference in Narrm (Melbourne) was a powerful example of this evolution.

Held from 27–30 April 2026 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, WD2026 brought together activists, policymakers, youth leaders, researchers, heads of government and global advocates working to advance gender equality and the health and rights of girls and women. It was also a historic first: the first Women Deliver Conference to be regionally hosted, with the Oceanic Pacific taking centre stage.

Agility at scale WD2026 was significant in both scale and complexity. Arinex coordinated a programme that included 12 plenaries, 12 preconference workshops, more than 120 concurrent sessions, 118 side events and a dedicated Arts Hub, all within a single venue footprint.

The conference also welcomed more than 6,100 delegates from 189 countries, alongside 300-plus speakers, 117 exhibitors, 69 sponsors and 380 scholarship recipients. More than 1,477 visas were granted and over 5,500 room nights were booked.

This was not a conference that could be delivered through operational excellence alone. It required the PCO to become a strategic value partner: a designer of inclusive systems, a steward of risk and reputation, a connector between global ambition and regional context, and an agile delivery team capable of adapting at pace.

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Behind these numbers was an operating environment that demanded constant agility. The Arinex team managed abstract submissions and review, speaker coordination, audio visual requirements, exhibitor logistics, city-wide wayfinding, VIP movements, bilateral meeting support, accessibility planning, sponsor servicing, accommodation and on-site delivery.

The presence of more than 30 international ministers, heads of state and senior UN officials added another layer of complexity.

Arinex provided end-to-end VIP coordination, including travel,

stewardship role is becoming increasingly important. PCOs are being asked to help clients make decisions that balance global standards with local relevance.

Creating value beyond the venue The outcomes of WD2026 demonstrate the expanding value proposition of the PCO. The conference generated an estimated AUD $42 million contribution to the Victorian economy. It also saw USD $190 million in new and renewed commitments announced, including $32.8 million pledged over three years by a new Coalition of Funders for Women and Families. The Melbourne Declaration for Gender Equality was produced as a collective and enduring conference output.

In an AI-driven environment, where technology can accelerate workflows and improve decision-making, the value of the PCO lies in knowing where human judgement is irreplaceable.

WD2026 required both: structured systems to manage complexity, and experienced people able to interpret nuance, solve problems quickly and protect the integrity of the event’s purpose.

Designing inclusion into the delegate experience One of the defining features of WD2026 was the depth of its accessibility and inclusion planning.

Working closely with Women Deliver, Arinex helped deliver multilingual conference materials, on-site wellness and mental health support, a dedicated quiet room, gender-inclusive bathrooms, free childcare and fully accessible venue layouts.

Trained safeguarding officers were present throughout the conference, and a Feminist Nesting Hub was established at the Queen Victoria Women’s Centre as an additional delegate resource.

These outcomes speak directly to the future of professional congress organisation. Success is no longer measured only by attendance, room nights or smooth operations, although these remain essential. Increasingly, success is also measured by legacy: policy influence, community benefit, economic contribution, sector visibility, stakeholder confidence and longterm action.

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transfers, green room logistics, bilateral meeting support and on-site escort services. Senior team members were deployed specifically to manage these high-stakes requirements, ensuring protocol, timing and delegate experience worked together seamlessly.

For Arinex, WD2026 reinforced that the PCO of the future must operate at the intersection of strategy and delivery. The role requires technical expertise, but also the ability to see the bigger picture: why the event exists, who it serves, what it must protect and what it can make possible.

The conference placed the Oceanic Pacific at the centre of one of the world’s most significant conversations on gender equality. It showcased Melbourne and Australia as destinations capable of hosting complex, high-profile and mission-driven global events. More importantly, it demonstrated how APAC can shape international dialogue through regional leadership, cross-cultural awareness and collaborative delivery.

These measures were not simply delegate services. They were expressions of the conference’s values. They showed how experience design can become a vehicle for mission delivery, ensuring that the event environment reflects the principles being discussed on stage.

For PCOs, this is where the profession is rapidly evolving.

Experience design now requires more than creativity. It requires empathy, cultural awareness, consultation, risk management and the ability to make values operational.

Sustainability as stewardship As Australia’s first carbon-neutral event organisation, Arinex applied its sustainability framework to minimise the environmental footprint of WD2026. Sustainable supplier procurement, waste reduction targets and carbon offset measures were implemented throughout the planning and delivery process.

This was especially important given the regional focus of the conference. For many communities across the Oceanic Pacific, climate justice is not an abstract policy issue; it is a lived reality.

Aligning sustainability commitments with the conference’s broader purpose reinforced the role of the PCO as a steward of both environmental and social impact.

In a world being transformed by AI, the most valuable PCOs will not be those that simply use technology faster. They will be those that combine technological capability with human insight, ethical judgement, inclusive design and agile leadership.

WD2026 showed that when a PCO moves beyond logistics to become a true strategic partner, a conference can do more than convene people.

It can move a mission.

Jessica Ferguson, CEO, Arinex Group and Council Member, IAPCO

In the Asia Pacific region, where destinations, cultures, economies and climate realities vary significantly, this 37

| IAPCO NEWS

Upcoming Education and Events

ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

Dates for your diary for education, networking and professional development provided and supported by IAPCO.

AUGUST 2026

IBTM Americas 2026 IAPCO will join IBTM Americas 2026 on 19–20 August, connecting with members, partners and stakeholders from across the region while championing the global value of the meetings industry.

As part of IAPCO’s strategic commitment to education and professional development, Jimena Ruiz, IAPCO Council Member and IAPCO Training Academy Regional Representative for LATAM, will take to the stage to share insights on key industry topics.

Stay tuned for further details coming soon.

19–20 August 2026

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40th CityDNA Summer School 2026 The 40th CityDNA Summer School will take place in Dijon, France, from 24–28 August 2026.

IAPCO is proud to continue its long-standing collaboration with CityDNA in delivering high-level education and supporting excellence across the meetings industry.

On Wednesday, 26 August at 11:00, IAPCO Council Member Giulia Sarri, Head of Service Design, AIM Communication | AIM Group International, will lead the session 'PCOs: The Power of Partnership.'

The session will explore the role of Professional Congress Organisers in delivering successful events and building effective partnerships with associations, destinations and venues.

24–28 August 2026

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Hosted EDGE Tokyo (JNTO) 2026 Japan National Tourism Organisation will host the IAPCO Hosted EDGE Seminar in Tokyo, Japan, on 27-28 August 2026.

Led by IAPCO Training Academy faculty Stephen Noble, General Manager of The Conference Company and Chair of the IAPCO Training Academy, and Mathias Posch, President and Partner of International Conference Services Ltd and former IAPCO President, the two-day seminar will equip Japan’s meetings and events professionals with practical insights, tools and best practices to strengthen industry capabilities and remain competitive in a global marketplace.

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SEE MORE

Convening EMEA 2026 13–15 September 2026 Convening EMEA 2026 will take place from 13–15 September 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal.

As a PCMA Strategic Partner, IAPCO will participate in the programme, contributing to discussions with industry leaders on navigating complexity, designing better events and delivering meaningful impact across the global meetings industry.

Stay tuned for more updates on IAPCO's participation.

13–15 September 2026

SEE MORE

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SEPTEMBER 2026

Arabian Travel Market 2026 IAPCO is expected to participate in Arabian Travel Market 2026, engaging with stakeholders, members and partners while representing the global value of the meetings industry.

ATM 2026 is scheduled to take place from 14–17 September at Dubai World Trade Centre.

As part of IAPCO’s presence at ATM 2026, a panel discussion will be hosted

by IAPCO Council Member and Middle East & Africa Ambassador Ajay Bhojwani, together with IAPCO Destination Partner Dubai, represented by Karina Lance, Associate Vice President, Dubai Business Events, and additional industry voices.

Further details will be announced soon. Stay tuned for more updates.

14–17 September 2026

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ICCA Future of Healthcare Meetings 2026 Presented by IAPCO Strategic Partner ICCA, The Future of Healthcare Meetings 2026 will take place in Athens, Greece, bringing together association leaders, destinations and industry partners to explore how healthcare meetings can create greater value through collaboration, innovation and lasting impact.

IAPCO President Sissi Lignou will take part in the programme, contributing to the wider conversation on the future of healthcare meetings.

20–22 September 2026

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OCTOBER 2026

IMEX America 2026 IMEX America 2026 will take place from 13–15 October 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. As an IMEX Strategic Partner, IAPCO will once again be at this leading meetings and events trade show, connecting with its global community of members, partners and industry stakeholders.

IAPCO will also host an IAPCO Hosted Buyer Group, offering Members the opportunity to experience IMEX America with hosted buyer benefits, including travel and accommodation support, professional development, networking and access to key suppliers.

IAPCO Members can access full application details via the IAPCO Member Hub*. *Member login required

13–15 October 2026

SEE MORE

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| IAPCO NEWS

November 2026

IBTM World 2026

ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

IBTM World 2026 will take place from 17–19 November 2026 in Barcelona, Spain.

IAPCO will once again bring its global community together at this leading meetings and events industry show, providing opportunities to learn, connect and collaborate.

IAPCO will host an IAPCO Hosted Buyer Group, offering Members a tailored programme of education and networking, quality time with fellow Members and Strategic Partners, and travel and accommodation support in accordance with the Hosted Buyer Programme Terms and Conditions.

Registration closes on 1 September 2026. IAPCO Members can access full application details and the group code via the IAPCO Member Hub*

17–19 November 2026

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*Members login required

January 2027

EDGE A'dam 20-22 January 2027 IAPCO EDGE Amsterdam 2027 will take place from 20–22 January 2027 in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

IAPCO’s flagship seminar series, developed by the IAPCO Training Academy, delivers world-class professional development, practical learning and valuable networking for meetings and events professionals.

Hosted by Amsterdam Convention Bureau and Congress by design, the seminar will offer an inspiring setting for knowledge exchange, innovation and industry connection.

20–22 January 2027

Registration will open soon. Register your interest here and be notified as soon as registration opens.

SEE MORE

ICRA 2026 made history in Vienna, attracting nearly 9,000 delegates and delivering the most successful edition of the congress to date. Read the full story on page 41.

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Athens Hosts the Global Surgical Community at EAES 2026 The 34th International Congress of the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES 2026) was successfully held in Athens from 23 to 26 June 2026 at the Megaron Athens International Conference Centre, bringing together the global community of minimally invasive and endoscopic surgery.

As Local Event Partner, AFEA Congress played a central role in the organisation and delivery of this major international meeting, ensuring the seamless execution of a highly complex scientific and educational programme in close collaboration with the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) and the Hellenic Association for Endoscopic Surgery (HAES).

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AEFA CONGRESS

EAES 2026 welcomed a distinguished audience of surgeons, researchers, healthcare professionals, and industry leaders from across the world, reinforcing its position as one of the most important global congresses in the field. The event featured a comprehensive programme designed to advance surgical knowledge and practice, including hands-on courses, advanced masterclasses, scientific symposia, free paper sessions, UEMS practical examinations, and lectures delivered by internationally recognised experts and leading academics in endoscopic surgery.

AIM GROUP INTERNATIONAL

ICRA 2026 Breaks All Records: Vienna Becomes The Global Capital Of Robotics Nearly 9,000 participants, 196 exhibitors and thousands of citizens engaged in the largest edition in the history of the world’s leading robotics congress Vienna Tuesday, 23 June 2026 – The world’s leading event dedicated to robotics and automation has concluded with record-breaking results. ICRA 2026 (IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation) transformed Vienna into the global hub of innovation, attracting participants from around the world and delivering the most successful edition in the congress’s history. Held under the theme “Robots for All”, the event brought together researchers, technology leaders, startups, students and innovators to explore how robotics is increasingly shaping industries, cities and everyday life.

The 2026 edition significantly surpassed previous records, registering: • Nearly 9,000 participants, compared to 6,200 in 2025; • 196 international exhibitors, the highest number ever recorded by the congress; • More than 14,000 sqm dedicated to exhibitions, competitions and live demonstrations; • The strongest sponsorship performance in the event’s history.

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE

Healthcare Events in the Age of AI: Turning Information into Meaningful Connections

ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

Personalisation becomes the norm A specialist physician, hospital executive, researcher, institutional representative and industry stakeholder all attend with different objectives.

Faced with an abundance of sessions, posters, symposia and workshops, participants increasingly expect personalised journeys, targeted recommendations and experiences that guide them towards the content most relevant to their professional challenges.

Artificial intelligence can support this shift through session recommendations, programme navigation, speaker identification, conversational tools and intelligent content search.

As artificial intelligence transforms access to information, medical congresses and healthcare professional events have a renewed opportunity: to personalise participant journeys, enrich interaction and turn abundant knowledge into meaningful value across the healthcare ecosystem. This shift is also redefining the role of event organisers.

‘In the age of AI, true value no longer lies in access to information, but in the ability to transform knowledge into collective intelligence, data into decisions and meetings into lasting collaborations. Content becomes a commodity. Conversation becomes the value.’

Information abundance is changing the landscape Healthcare professionals have never had access to so much information.

Scientific publications, clinical guidelines, knowledge databases, webinars, podcasts, educational platforms and generative AI tools now provide answers within seconds.

Rather than diminishing the relevance of in-person events, this evolution reinforces their role. Medical congresses, scientific meetings and professional healthcare events are becoming the places where information is interpreted, challenged and translated into practical insight.

The question is no longer, ‘How do I access information?’ but, ‘How do I interpret it, contextualise it and turn it into action?’

This is where medical and scientific congresses take on a new dimension.

AI is already changing daily healthcare practice, from diagnostic support and medical imaging analysis to clinical research, personalised medicine, patient pathway optimisation and administrative automation.

Congresses provide the forum where professionals can share experience, ask questions, compare outcomes and discuss the limits of integrating these technologies into real organisations.

Innovation is not adopted through scientific publication alone. It is accelerated through peer-to-peer exchange.

At a medical congress, attendees may face dozens of simultaneous sessions, hundreds of speakers and thousands of scientific abstracts. The challenge is no longer accessing content, but identifying what will most influence professional practice, projects and decisions.

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The objective is a tailored experience that maximises both the impact and the value of participation.

From media platform to intelligence platform For decades, congresses operated primarily as channels for disseminating knowledge. In the age of AI, they must increasingly function as platforms for collective intelligence.

• •

The distinction is fundamental: AI disseminates knowledge

Congresses create conversations around that knowledge They bring together researchers, physicians, experts, industry leaders and institutions to compare experience, share practice and shape tomorrow’s solutions collaboratively.

AI can summarise a clinical study. It cannot replicate a debate among specialists, the practical insight of clinicians working in real-world environments or the trust developed through peer interaction.

The most successful congresses will be those that transform information into conversation, content into interaction and communities into engines of innovation.

Creating high-value connections In a context where innovation is accelerating, healthcare events also play a vital role in fostering exchanges between professionals, healthcare institutions, industry partners, startups and public organisations.

For many years, event success was measured by attendance figures or the number of contacts generated.

Today, partners seek meaningful interactions, collaboration opportunities and connections capable of accelerating the adoption of new solutions within healthcare organisations.

The quality of connections has become as important as their quantity.

In healthcare, decisions rarely rely solely on publications or algorithms. They also depend on experience, peer exchange and trust in those who have already implemented a new practice or innovation.

As AI advances, this human dimension becomes even more important.

AI-powered tools can improve matchmaking, qualify interactions and facilitate more relevant connections among stakeholders across the healthcare ecosystem.

On-demand sessions, collaborative platforms, supplementary resources, online communities and editorial programmes can extend the experience before, during and after the event itself.

AI can support this continuity by improving access to content, generating personalised summaries and recommending resources tailored to individual interests.

The event becomes a key moment within a broader ecosystem of knowledge sharing and collaboration.

The evolving role of thought leaders Thought leaders, researchers and medical experts are no longer expected simply to transmit scientific knowledge that is now widely accessible.

They become interpreters, guides and facilitators who help their peers understand the practical implications of innovation in daily practice.

As peer-to-peer learning becomes more important, discussions among colleagues, experience sharing and real-world case studies are emerging as powerful drivers of learning and innovation adoption.

The future of medical congresses therefore depends as much on expertise as on the ability to facilitate authentic exchange between peers.

Perspective ‘The challenge is not to oppose artificial intelligence and human experience, but to combine them to create more personalised events, facilitate high-value connections, and support the transformation of the healthcare sector for the benefit of professional communities.’ Jérôme Sicchi Director, Health & Science – GL events Exhibitions The new role of event organisers In this environment, organisers are becoming more than operational experts.

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Communities active year-round Another transformation concerns the timing of events.

Participants increasingly expect a continuous experience in which content, interactions and communities remain accessible throughout the year.

They are experience architects, helping each participant identify the most relevant content, experts and opportunities.

Their mission is to create the conditions for knowledge to circulate effectively, innovation to be better understood and collaboration to flourish.

At Health & Science (GL events), we believe that AI will not diminish the importance of medical and scientific congresses.

On the contrary, it will strengthen their role.

As access to knowledge becomes democratised, value shifts towards interpretation, exchange of practice, experience sharing and trust.

Healthcare professionals no longer expect only high-quality scientific programmes. They seek experiences that facilitate meaningful encounters, accelerate knowledge sharing and foster collaboration across research, care delivery, industry and institutions.

The most successful events will no longer be those that distribute the greatest volume of content, but those that generate the most meaningful interactions.

In the age of AI, the value of a healthcare event is no longer measured solely by attendance figures or the volume of content delivered.

It is measured by its ability to create meaningful connections, accelerate knowledge sharing and support the transformation of healthcare systems.

Whether in a medical congress, scientific conference or major healthcare industry event, technology becomes a lever serving a more ambitious goal: enabling the right people to meet, learn from one another and build tomorrow’s solutions together.

Trust remains irreplaceable While AI is transforming behaviour and workflows, it does not change one fundamental aspect of healthcare: trust.

Healthcare professionals make decisions that directly affect patients. They need trustworthy data, validated knowledge and credible experience-based insight.

Healthcare events provide what technology cannot replicate: • • •

The richness of peer-to-peer exchange The confrontation of perspectives and experiences The creation of trust

They create opportunities to challenge ideas, share experience, build collaborations and strengthen trust across the ecosystem.

AI democratises access to knowledge.

The challenge is to harness the power of artificial intelligence to strengthen what no technology can replace: trust, peer-to-peer exchange and the capacity of communities to learn together.

AI can accelerate access to knowledge. Congresses make it possible to understand that knowledge, test it against real-world experience and turn it into tangible progress for healthcare organisations and patients.

Content becomes a commodity. Conversation becomes the value.

AI democratises knowledge. Congresses give it meaning.

Jérôme Sicchi, Managing Director, and Nathalie Jarry, Director of Communication, Marketing & Content, GL events Health & Science.

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| ON-POINT ARTICLE

From Event Delivery to Mission Delivery: How Vision Code Illustrates the New Role of the PCO

ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

The PCO as strategic value partner To support this vision, AIM Group International adopted an integrated approach that combined congress management, strategic consulting, stakeholder engagement, communications and experience design.

Instead of operating in functional silos, multidisciplinary teams collaborated from the earliest planning stages to align every element of the project with the client’s broader mission.

This model reflects a wider industry evolution.

As client expectations become more sophisticated, the value of a PCO increasingly lies in its ability to connect expertise across disciplines and translate strategic objectives into meaningful experiences and outcomes.

Innovation and agility in an AI-driven world The meetings industry is experiencing a profound transformation.

The modern PCO is becoming a curator of ecosystems rather than simply a manager of events.

For decades, PCOs have been recognised for their ability to deliver complex events with operational excellence. Today, however, clients are asking for something fundamentally different. They are no longer looking simply for a partner who can organise a meeting; they are seeking organisations capable of advancing a mission, facilitating collaboration, generating knowledge and creating measurable long-term impact.

As scientific communities navigate unprecedented technological acceleration – driven by AI, digital transformation and increasingly interdisciplinary research – the role of the PCO is evolving accordingly.

The experience of Vision Code, an international ophthalmology forum held in Milan in May 2026, offers a compelling illustration of this shift.

When the objective is not the event Vision Code was conceived together with Professor Mario Romano, one of the most influential voices in international ophthalmology.

From the outset, the ambition was clear: this would not be another scientific congress focused solely on content dissemination. The objective was to create a platform capable of anticipating the future of ophthalmology, bringing together global experts to explore emerging challenges, identify opportunities and build scientific consensus around topics that will shape the discipline in the years ahead.

This distinction is critical.

The event itself was never the final goal. Rather, it was designed as a catalyst within a broader process of scientific collaboration and innovation.

This mindset increasingly reflects what many clients expect from their PCO partners today. Success is measured not only by attendance, logistics or participant satisfaction, but by the extent to which an initiative contributes to advancing a community’s strategic objectives.

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Designing for collaboration in an age of AI One of the most significant themes explored during Vision Code was the impact of AI on clinical practice.

AI was not treated merely as a topic for discussion; it also influenced the design philosophy of the meeting itself.

The forum focused on four strategic areas expected to shape the future of ophthalmology: • • • •

Artificial Intelligence in Clinical Practice Digital Ecosystems in Ophthalmology Flow Control in Ophthalmic Surgery Suprachoroidal Therapies

These themes required participants to move beyond traditional lecture-based formats and engage in dialogue, collective reflection and consensus building.

This represents a broader challenge facing scientific and professional communities today. As technology accelerates the production and availability of knowledge, the true value of meetings increasingly lies not in information transfer but in creating environments where experts can interpret, challenge, validate and apply that knowledge together.

Today, it increasingly serves as the starting point.

The role of the PCO expands from organising content delivery to designing the conditions that enable collaboration, innovation and shared decision-making.

The value created by a meeting is measured by the conversations it enables, the collaborations it generates and the initiatives it accelerates long after the closing session.

Experience design as a strategic tool Another distinctive feature was the creation of a dedicated 360-degree immersive environment developed specifically for the event.

The future of the PCO As AI continues to reshape industries and stakeholder expectations evolve, the meetings sector faces both disruption and opportunity.

The objective was not simply to introduce technology for technology’s sake, but to enhance engagement and support learning through experience.

Technology will undoubtedly automate many operational processes that once defined event delivery. Yet the growing complexity of scientific, corporate, and association ecosystems creates an even greater need for organisations capable of connecting people, facilitating dialogue, and translating vision into collective action.

By combining scientific content, storytelling, and immersive design, participants were invited to interact with complex topics in a more memorable and impactful way.

This reflects an important trend across the meetings industry.

As audiences become increasingly accustomed to personalised, digital and interactive experiences, event design itself is becoming a strategic lever for achieving learning, engagement and behavioural objectives.

Experience design is no longer an optional enhancement; it is becoming an integral component of value creation.

Beyond the meeting: Creating lasting impact Perhaps the most innovative aspect of Vision Code is what happens after the participants leave the room.

The forum forms part of an ongoing Scientific Consensus process that continues before, during, and after the event.

The outcomes generated through this collaborative approach are expected to contribute to future initiatives, including the development of international research networks, dedicated working groups and a proposed COST Action.

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In this context, agility becomes a critical capability.

This is where the future role of the PCO emerges.

Not simply as an organiser.

Not merely as a service provider.

But as a strategic partner capable of combining insight, innovation, technology, experience design and stewardship to help clients achieve meaningful and lasting impact.

Vision Code offers a glimpse of that future.

A future in which meetings are no longer endpoints, but platforms for progress.

Lavinia Ricci Deputy General Manager, AIM Italy | AIM Group

This long-term perspective highlights one of the most significant shifts in the PCO profession.

Historically, the event often represented the conclusion of the engagement.

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ISSUE #124 EDITION 3 (2026)

| ON-POINT ARTICLE

Scientific Excellence Alone is Not Enough Why associations need strong development strategies – and what that means for their congress partners The gap between expertise and organisation Scientific associations are built on expertise. Their members publish, teach, supervise, peer-review and shape the direction of their fields. Few other organisations bring together comparable depth of expertise. And yet, many of these associations struggle with something their members would solve in an afternoon if it were a research problem: how to stay relevant to their own membership.

The gap is structural, not personal. Scientific excellence and organisational excellence draw on different skill sets. A congress president who runs a world-class congress is not automatically an expert in member segmentation, digital service design or data-driven decision-making. Nor should we expect them to be. But when an association's strategic development rests entirely on volunteer board members who learn organisational management on the job, the result is predictable: decisions based on tradition and intuition rather than evidence.

What the data says The most recent DGVM (German Association for Association Management) annual survey, published in early 2025, asked the managing directors of German association-sector organisations to name their top priorities for the year. The results are instructive.

66.1 % named advancing digitalisation and the use of AI as a top priority. 62.5 % named sharpening the association's profile and brand. 57.1 % named intensifying member communication and winning new members. 55.4 % named expanding services and tangible member value (https://www.dgvm.de/dgvmjahresumfrage-2025/).

These numbers are not operational footnotes, but the entire sector telling itself, collectively, that the current way of running an association is running out of road.

And yet market- and target-group-oriented formats for education, events and congresses ranked only tenth, at 28%.

That is the interesting number. Associations know they need better member engagement. They know they need digital transformation. But the one channel where most of them actually meet their members in person - the annual congress - is not being rethought with anywhere near the same urgency.

Congresses as underused lever Most associations run one flagship congress annually or biennially. For many members, that congress is the single most tangible expression of the association's value. It is where content is delivered, networks are maintained, early careers are launched, and membership renewals are implicitly justified.

But the congress is also the richest source of behavioural data an association will ever generate. Who registered and who didn't.

Which sessions filled up. Which abstracts got submitted. Which workshops drew early-career members and which drew only the established cohort. Who came back.

Who stopped coming and when.

In most associations we see, this data exists in fragments.

Registration data sits in one system, abstract data in another, membership data in a third and post-congress surveys in a fourth spreadsheet that rarely makes it back into strategic planning. The association has the raw material for evidencebased member development. It just doesn't have the pipeline.

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What ‘strategic development’ actually means ‘Strategic development’ is one of those phrases that sounds consultant-hollow until you make it concrete. For a scientific association, it means being able to answer questions like: • • • •

Which member segments are growing, stagnating, or shrinking – and why?

Which of our formats actually drive participation, and which survive only out of tradition?

What do members who lapsed their membership have in common?

Where do we lose prospective members in the journey from first contact to full engagement?

These are not questions that require a consulting firm. They require joined-up data, a habit of looking at it, and enough organisational capacity to act on what it shows. What many associations lack is not the will but the connective tissue: the systems, processes, and time to turn operational data into development decisions.

Why it matters for PCOs Here is where the conversation becomes relevant for PCOs – and uncomfortable, in a useful way.

The traditional PCO contract is an execution contract. The association decides on the scientific programme, the venue, the budget frame, the rough format. The PCO delivers. Registration runs. Abstracts are managed. Badges get printed. Everyone thanks each other at the closing reception.

That model is no longer sufficient for an association sector under the pressure the DGVM numbers describe. If two thirds of association leaders know they need to digitalise their member relationship, and more than half know they need to deliver more tangible value, then their congress partner is either part of that answer or part of the problem they are trying to solve around.

The PCOs who will matter in the next five years are the ones who stop thinking of the congress as a closed event and start thinking of it as the most intensive data point in the association's annual relationship with its members. That means caring about what happens before registration opens and after the congress closes.

It means connecting congress behaviour back to membership behaviour. It means being able to tell an association's board not just how the event went, but what the event revealed about the association.

This is a different conversation than ‘how many delegates did we have this year.’ It is a harder conversation. It also happens to be the conversation associations are now actively looking for.

Hermann Hanser, Managing Director of PO HANSER SERVICE: ‘The associations that will thrive are the ones that demand more from themselves, and from the people they work with. The PCOs that will thrive are the ones ready to be asked for.

At CPO HANSER SERVICE, we see our role not only as organisers of successful congresses, but as partners in association development, helping scientific societies turn data, participation, and member interactions into informed decisions that strengthen their future.’

Dennis Radigk CTO, CPO HANSER SERVICE GmbH

Strategic Partners and Affiliations

Destination Partners

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Convention Centre Partners

Service Provider Partners

Council & Annual Meeting Host Partners

Media Partners

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International Association of Professional Congress Organisers

Raising Quality Standards in the Global Meetings Industry

The global brand of excellence for the meetings industry and a benchmark for quality within congress organisation

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