The Strategic Partnership between the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) and the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA) has been formally established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with a three-year term. This agreement marks a commitment to closer collaboration between the two organisations, aimed at strengthening the global business events community.
A core focus of the partnership is enhancing the value of membership for both IAPCO and ABEA members, who will benefit from collaborative engagements, including meetups at industry trade shows such as IMEX, IBTM, FIEXPO, and AIME. These opportunities will foster new relationships and potential business ventures.
Sissi Lignou, President of IAPCO, commented:
“As we navigate an ever-evolving industry landscape, fostering collaboration between organisations that stand for the same values is crucial for the ongoing success and growth of the global meetings and events industry. My thanks to our Past-President, Sarah Markey-Hamm and Melissa Brown for facilitating this important Strategic Partnership.”
The partnership will prioritise knowledge exchange and professional development. Both organisations will engage in ongoing collaboration through industry and online education initiatives. Planned activities include panel discussions featuring industry experts, the delivery of joint educational sessions, and discounted access for members to professional development courses.
ABEA and IAPCO will co-write a White Paper to benefit both membership bases, along with sharing further relevant research and studies to enhance industry insights.
Melissa Brown, CEO of ABEA, emphasised the value of partnership.
“Our collective efforts will provide our members with exceptional value, critical industry knowledge, and the ability to connect on a global scale. There is so much knowledge to be shared. The more efficiently we can share experience and knowledge across the globe, the easier it will be for our members to keep up to date with the latest developments.”
