Association Focus: Important News and Events

Submissions Open for the 2025 Incredible Impacts Programme

BestCities Global Alliance and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) have opened submissions for the 2025 Incredible Impacts Programme.

This initiative awards a total of $25,000 USD to associations that leave a positive, lasting impact in their host destinations. The programme offers a main grant of $20,000 USD and a seed grant of $5,000 USD, with submissions accepted until 2 June 2025.

Winners will be announced at the ICCA Congress in November 2025. This year, the submission process has been simplified to encourage more associations to showcase their contributions to local economies and societal advancement.

Click here to read the press release.

X-Culture Project: Empowering Future Global Business Leaders

The X-Culture Project, initiated in 2010, has become a cornerstone initiative for fostering international business understanding and cross-cultural collaboration among university students worldwide. 

This year, in partnership with Maritz, BestCities Global Alliance crafted a challenge for participants to propose impactful legacy projects for the 2030 World Congress of Dermatology tailored to cities like Dubai, Dublin, Cape Town, Singapore, Copenhagen, and Guadalajara. Each team was encouraged to think broadly about the economic, social, political, cultural, and environmental impacts their projects could have on their assigned destinations.

Click here to read the press release.

New Case Studies Showcase BestCities’ Impact

We’re excited to share two new impact case studies that illustrate the significant benefits derived from strategic event planning and execution:

Velo City Conference: This case study delves into how the event significantly influenced policies and practices around cycling and sustainable urban mobility. The insights demonstrate the broader implications of targeted event themes on community and policy improvements.
Explore the full study here.

Entrepreneurs’ Organization: Highlighting the Entrepreneurs’ Organization event, this study outlines the successful outcomes of careful planning and networking opportunities that fostered valuable connections and growth for attendees.
Learn more about the event’s impact here.

These case studies exemplify how well-planned events can extend their influence beyond the immediate participants to effect meaningful community and industry-wide changes.

Highlights from 2024 BestCities Community Cafés

In 2024, BestCities Global Alliance hosted a series of engaging Community Cafés, each focused on significant themes that are shaping the future of the events industry. The sessions provided platforms for experts and leaders to share insights and drive conversations on critical topics, including:

1. Embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Global Meetings and Events: This discussion highlighted the crucial role of DEI in event planning. Strategies were shared on how to effectively incorporate DEI principles to ensure events are inclusive and represent diverse perspectives. Explore more insights here.
2. Unlocking AI in Business Operations: This session focused on the transformative role of AI in enhancing business operations within the events sector. Industry leaders shared tips on how AI can streamline processes and increase operational efficiency. Learn more here.
3. Exploring Innovative AI Solutions Beyond ChatGPT: Attendees delved into the broader applications of artificial intelligence beyond popular platforms like ChatGPT, discussing how AI can enhance event engagement and management. Key takeaways are summarized here.

These Community Cafés not only provided a snapshot of the latest trends but also equipped participants with practical strategies to improve their events and conferences.

Click here to listen to the BestCities Song, created using AI during the latest Community Cafe.

Sustainable Development Goals: Articles on Goals 6 and 9

Continuing our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), BestCities Global Alliance has published insightful articles on SDG Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

These articles explore the critical roles that international association meetings can play in advancing these goals. SDG Goal 6 focuses on the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, while Goal 9 emphasizes building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization, and fostering innovation.

Read about SDG Goal 6

Discover initiatives for SDG Goal 9

Head Office Highlights: What’s Happening at BestCities Global Alliance

2025 BestCities Global Forum in Dublin: Programme Announced

We are thrilled to announce the programme for the 2025 BestCities Global Forum, taking place in Dublin from 24-26 January. This event will bring together industry leaders to explore “Creative Collaborations: Innovating for Greater Communities.” Highlights include sessions on AI in business, community building through sports, and cultural visits to iconic Dublin sites like EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum and the Guinness Storehouse. Join us for insightful talks by notable speakers and engage in enriching networking opportunities. For details and registration, visit the BestCities Global Forum website.

BestCities Global Alliance at PCMA Convening Leaders in Houston

BestCities Global Alliance is gearing up for an exciting presence at the upcoming PCMA Convening Leaders conference in Houston, one of our partner destinations. We are currently fine-tuning the details for the BestCities area, which will feature a morning coffee station and a “beers and wines of the world” client mixer.

Special thanks to Houston for leading these efforts!

BestCities Partners Stand Out in the 2024 Nature Index of Leading Science Cities

Eight of our BestCities Global Alliance partner cities have made the top 100 in the 2024 Nature Index of Leading Science Cities, underscoring their pivotal roles in driving scientific research and innovation globally. This accolade highlights the vibrant scientific communities within our network and their impact on advancing global knowledge.

• Tokyo (10)
• Singapore (26)
• Berlin (32)
• Copenhagen (33)
• Houston (34)
• Melbourne (41)
• Madrid (57)
• Vancouver (77)

Explore the full details of the rankings here.

City Buzz: What’s Happening in BestCities Destinations

Vancouver

Life Sciences Fam trip, 6-9 February 2025

Vancouver is set to host a business events familiarization trip centered on Life Sciences, particularly neurorehabilitation, to showcase the city as an ideal destination for accessible, large-scale events like the Invictus Games (which will be hosted in Vancouver and Whistler, 8-16 February). The three-day trip will include visits to local neurorehabilitation facilities, attendance at the Invictus Games opening, and a sporting event experience, highlighting Vancouver’s capacity and facilities.

For more information, or to apply to attend, contact Nina Miljkovic from Destination Vancouver.

Taylor Swift Mania Comes to Vancouver, 6-8 December

Speaking of Taylor-Made Events, Vancouver will wecome the finale of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour from 6-8 December at BC Place Stadium. The city anticipates a full house for all three shows, complemented by Swiftie-themed events and experiences. Highlights include themed menus, cocktails, and the transformation of Capilano Suspension Bridge Park into a 450-foot friendship bracelet. For more on the festivities, visit Destination Vancouver’s events page.

Melbourne

Melbourne Convention Bureau Drives Growth in Business Events

The Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) has had an outstanding year, securing 215 events that are set to attract over 58,000 visitors and generate significant economic impact for Victoria. This success reinforces Melbourne’s status as a global hub for business events and knowledge exchange.

IBTM World Participation

MCB showcased Melbourne’s advantages as a business events destination at IBTM World in Barcelona, highlighting the city’s accessibility and close proximity to world-class venues and a globally recognized knowledge community.

ACM International Conference on Multimedia (ACM MM 2024)

Melbourne recently hosted the ACM International Conference on Multimedia at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. This premier event attracted over 1,750 attendees, showcasing Melbourne’s capacity to host major international conferences.

Collaboration with IAPCO

MCB celebrated a decade of partnership with the International Association of Professional Congress Organizers (IAPCO), enhancing Melbourne’s reputation as a leading global conference destination. The visit included educational sessions and networking, providing valuable insights into global trends in congress organization.

Tourism Australia CEO Mission to India

MCB’s Chief Executive, Julia Swanson, participated in the Tourism Australia CEO mission to India, engaging with over 600 people across Delhi and Mumbai to promote Melbourne’s growing business events sector.

Dubai

ICOM 2024 International Symposium

Dubai recently hosted the ICOM 2024 International Symposium on 12 November, setting the stage for next year’s 27th ICOM General Conference. This upcoming event is expected to draw over 4,000 museum specialists and experts, highlighting Dubai’s growing emphasis on culture and creativity. The collaboration between Dubai Business Events and Dubai Culture played a key role in capturing this significant cultural event for the city.

Dubai Exhibition Centre Expansion Project

The expansion project for the Dubai Exhibition Centre is now underway. This development aims to enhance Dubai’s capabilities as a top venue for international exhibitions and conferences.

30th Anniversary of Dubai Shopping Festival

Starting on 6 December, Dubai will kick off the 30th anniversary edition of the Dubai Shopping Festival. This major city-wide celebration will feature entertainment, gastronomy, concerts, immersive experiences, fireworks, and drone shows, showcasing Dubai’s vibrant lifestyle and retail offerings.

Singapore

GSTC Launches Global Standards for Attractions

Supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, the Global Sustainable Tourism Council has introduced new sustainability standards for attractions, effective starting 2026. Singapore also launched the MICE Venue Sustainability Playbook, aiding venues in reducing carbon emissions.

Rainforest Wild Asia Opening, March 2025

Singapore will open Rainforest Wild Asia in March 2025. This new park will feature the rare Francois’ langur among its 29 species, offering various adventure paths inspired by Asian rainforests.

Major Expansions at Singapore’s Integrated Resorts

Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay Sands are expanding their facilities to enhance visitor experiences with new attractions and luxury accommodations set to launch through 2025. These entries provide a brief overview of significant developments in Singapore, emphasizing the city’s strategic initiatives in tourism and sustainability.

Madrid

Christmas Festivities Begin

Madrid kicks off its Christmas celebrations with citywide lights and activities starting the last weekend of November. The festive season features family-friendly events across all districts, culminating with New Year’s Eve grape-eating at Puerta del Sol and the Three Kings’ parade on 6 January.

Madrid Convention Bureau at IBTM, 19-21 November

The Madrid Convention Bureau concluded the year’s promotional activities at the IBTM fair, successfully engaging in over 500 meetings alongside 24 associated companies.

Madrid Named Top Meetings & Conference Destination

Madrid has been awarded the World’s Leading Meetings & Conference Destination 2024 for the sixth consecutive year at the World Travel Awards in Madeira, Portugal, on 24 November.

These brief entries succinctly highlight Madrid’s seasonal festivities, its active participation in significant industry events, and its continued recognition as a premier global destination for meetings and conferences.

Washington DC

The Collective Advisory Gathering

Destination DC recently brought together members of the Collective advisory group, who shared their impactful experiences and discussed what makes DC a special place for events and conventions.

Institute of Internal Auditors Annual Conference, July 2024

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) held its International Conference at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, featuring a corporate social responsibility initiative with One Tree Planted and a gala reception at the Washington National Cathedral.

Recognition for DDC Leadership

Elliott Ferguson, President & CEO of Destination DC, was honored as one of the Washington Business Journal’s Power 100 Business Leaders. Additionally, both Ferguson and Shelby Luzzi, Senior Manager of Sustainability, were named among the 100 most influential people in the events industry by Eventex.

Guadalajara

International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) 2028

Guadalajara is set to host the prestigious International Conference on Robotics and Automation (ICRA) in 2028, marking a significant milestone for the city as a hub for technological advancements and international conferences. This event will bring together experts and innovators from around the globe to share insights and breakthroughs in robotics and automation.

Dublin

ICCA Association MasterClass and BestCities Global Forum

Dublin is preparing to host the ICCA Association MasterClass and the BestCities Global Forum, 24-26 January. These significant events will attract leading professionals and thought leaders from the global meeting and conference industry to the city.

New Hotels Announced for Dublin

The Dublin hospitality sector is expanding with the introduction of new properties. The Sofitel Dublin Airport will offer luxury accommodations near the airport, enhancing convenience for international travellers. Additionally, CitizenM Dublin St Patrick’s is scheduled to open in summer 2025, providing modern and stylish lodging options in the city centre.

Tokyo

SIGGRAPH Asia 2024, 3-6 December

Tokyo is set to host SIGGRAPH Asia 2024 at the Tokyo International Forum from 3-6 December. This premier event in digital innovation will showcase the latest in computer graphics, interactive technologies, and cutting-edge advancements. As a hub for creativity and technology, Tokyo offers an ideal backdrop for this dynamic conference, attracting global pioneers in digital creativity.

Tokyo Named World’s Best Big City in Conde Nast Traveler 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards

Tokyo has been voted the World’s Best Big City in the Conde Nast Traveler 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. Celebrated for its unique mix of tradition and modernity, Tokyo offers everything from tranquil temples to neon-lit skyscrapers. The city also boasts a world-renowned culinary scene, with more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world.

Houston

Steady Travel and Employment Growth

Travel through Houston’s airports remained robust in August, demonstrating sustained interest and activity in the region. Simultaneously, the local hospitality sector is flourishing, evidenced by a nearly 2% increase in jobs over the last year. Explore the details on Houston’s air travel trends and hospitality employment growth.

Global Recognition

Houston’s vibrant cultural scene and gastronomy have earned it a spot on Fodor’s ‘Go List’ for 2025, affirming its status as a must-visit global destination. Discover what makes Houston a top choice on Fodor’s 2025 Go List.

Record-Breaking Growth and Michelin Stars

Houston’s travel and hospitality industry is set to achieve record-breaking growth in 2024, enhancing its reputation as a leading destination. Complementing this achievement, six local restaurants have been honored with prestigious Michelin stars, marking Houston as a top culinary hotspot. For more details on the tourism growth, read the Houston First report on travel and hospitality, and for insights on Michelin recognition, see the Houston First Michelin awards announcement.

“The state of our visitor economy is strong and we are investing more to make it even stronger and take it to heights we’ve never seen before.” – Houston First CEO Michael Heckman pic.twitter.com/mWuYE73QnG

— Houston First (@HoustonFirst) November 12, 2024