ICCA & ABEA Partner Up to Advance Business Events Sector

Wednesday, February 21, 2024

During the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME), a pivotal agreement was inked between the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA), marking a significant step towards bolstering their alliance. This partnership is set to address three crucial challenges within the Australian business events sector through a shared commitment.

Together, ICCA and ABEA will elevate their foundational beliefs and strategies across three main areas: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI); Sustainability and Legacy; and Enhancing and Preserving Talent. This collaboration will be manifested through the publication of insightful white papers, the provision of access to vital programs, the exchange of information, and the creation of opportunities for the industry’s rising stars.

Senthil Gopinath, CEO, ICCA, said that the Australian Business Events Association had led the way with its unification of industry bodies, providing a powerful entry point into the Australian sector.

“We are delighted to work with the Australian Business Events Association team to take strong, practical, and impactful steps to supporting the success of the Australian industry.

“ICCA brings world-class programmes, connections and experience that we willingly share with our Australian colleagues. This is an exciting partnership, and we look forward to its ensuing success,” said Gopinath.

Peter King, Chair, ABEA, said that as the leading voice for business events, this was an opportunity to harness well-renowned international expertise and connections to amplify the work of ABEA for its members.

“We know our members are needing to embed DEI principles, sustainability, and develop talent to thrive in the competitive marketplace. Our partnership with ICCA is designed to provide unparalleled opportunities for our members, and the sector, to tackle these challenges head on.

“No one organisation can do this on their own. By joining forces with ICCA, the global community and knowledge hub for the international association meetings industry, we can pool our resources and focus to achieve the outcomes we all need,” said King.

The MOU details the work that the two organisations will complete together under the three pillars.

The first area of focus, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, will see the two organizations supporting their members and the wider community in enhancing DEI practices by:

• Gathering and disseminating success stories.
• Jointly releasing a White Paper that explores the benefits and challenges of multiculturalism within the Business Events sector.
• Offering ABEA members the chance to participate in ICCA’s International Business Events Mentorship Program, which connects them with global leaders for educational mentoring, thus promoting the adoption of international best practices.

In the realm of Sustainability and Legacy, both entities are committed to advocating the significant economic and social contributions of the Business Events industry to policymakers and key stakeholders.

• Initiating collaborative efforts across regions to highlight the lasting impact of Business Events through case studies and shared insights.
• Organizing quarterly sessions to monitor advancements, engage with stakeholders, and discuss advocacy initiatives.

The third pillar, Talent Development and Retention, is dedicated to addressing the industry’s employment challenges.

• Collaborating on the Emerging Leaders Challenge during AIME 2024, a platform designed to recognize and empower new industry voices, focusing on innovative solutions for attracting and retaining talent.
• The challenge victor will receive ICCA’s scholarship for the ICCASkills certification, earning the title of Certified International Convention Specialist (CICS).
• Plans are in place to evaluate the Emerging Leaders Challenge post-2024 to ensure its effectiveness and adapt the program for 2025.

This Memorandum of Understanding, which took effect on 19 February 2024, is slated for review in December 2026, setting a clear path for the partnership’s evolution and impact on the industry.

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