Sector: PCO
The Quiet Power of Financial Incentives In Conference Destination Choice
Dr Emma Delaney analyses some key issues regarding subventions and other financial incentives, drawing from the perspective of PCOs. Amongst her conclusions: flexible, co-created incentive packages are more effective than rigid, conditional offers, and when aligned with a destination’s goals, incentives can facilitate sustainable, inclusive and high-quality conferences and stronger societal impact. From CEF…
New Council Officers Elected and President-Elect Confirmed at IAPCO AM&GA in Athens
IAPCO has announced the election of new Council Officers and the confirmed the new President-Elect as Jason Yeh at the conclusion of its 2026 Annual Meeting and General Assembly in Athens. Yeh, CEO of GIS Group, Taiwan, will serve for a one-year term as president-elect, before becoming president at the AM&GA in 2027. From CMW…
Reimagining RFP Processes for International Association Meetings
This White Paper argues that current RFP models, largely designed more than two decades ago, have failed to keep pace with societal and business demands and expectations. To stay relevant, responsible and resilient, RFP processes must evolve from procurement tools into strategic frameworks for mission-aligned, impact-driven partnerships. From World PCO Alliance…
The PCO as Event Impact Orchestrator
IAPCO President Sissi Lignou calls for International healthcare conferences to be designed with the experiences of the end-beneficiaries of the conference theme as the central messaging. The PCO plays a critical role in bringing together all voices – destination representatives, event owners, delegates, speakers – to promote these key messages about impact and value created.
IAPCO and PCMA Sign Strategic MOU Focused on Education, Research and Emerging Leaders
IAPCO and PCMA have formalised a strategic collaboration through the signing of an MOU at PCMA Convening Leaders 2026, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The agreement strengthens cooperation across thought leadership, professional education, research, and emerging leader engagement within the global business events industry, establishing a structured framework for collaboration between the two global organisations.
IAPCO and BEA Partner to Advance Sustainability in the Global Meetings Industry
The partnership supports the implementation of IAPCO’s Sustainability Strategy and introduces two cornerstone initiatives: a new Sustainability Award powered by Business Events Australia, and the development of a new IAPCO Sustainability Toolkit designed to equip professional congress organisers (PCOs) with practical tools and insights to drive measurable environmental and social impact.
IAPCO | webEDGE, Online Learning Platform
webEDGE provides information on a range of subjects that are pertinent to those working in the meetings industry. The Congress Project Management Course is designed to equip business events industry professionals with a 360-degree view of congress organisation. Learn new skills, stay up to date on industry trends, and advance your career.
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25 February 2026
IAPCO Annual Meeting & General Assembly 2026, Athens, Greece
Proudly hosted by four IAPCO PCO members — AFEA, CONVIN, ERA, and ERASMUS — together with IAPCO destination partner This is Athens–Convention & Visitors Bureau, this landmark gathering will bring the IAPCO community together in the birthplace of the first symposia, united in purpose to keep #UnlockingExcellence.
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15 September 2026
IAPCO EDGE Seminar (Advanced) Dubai, UAE
This event is open to senior meeting professionals and previous EDGE Seminar attendees. It is open to both IAPCO members and non-members. The event website will go live soon but we encourage you to register your interest to attend now in order to avoid missing the limited spots available.
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17 March 2026
IAPCO EDGE Seminar, Auckland, New Zealand
Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of IAPCO EDGE Seminars from where it all began, Auckland New Zealand. This event is open to IAPCO members and all other meeting professionals in the APAC region. Register your interest to attend now in order to avoid missing the limited spots available.
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25 November 2025
IAPCO EDGE Seminar, Oman
Held in partnership with the Oman Convention Bureau (Ministry of Heritage and Tourism), the Hosted EDGE Seminar advances professional development and raises international standards across the Middle East. It delivers IAPCO’s globally recognised education through a high-impact programme tailored to the region’s business events ecosystem and its industry stakeholders, students, and associations.
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What Can Event Pros Learn from Fashionistas, Gin Makers and the NBA?
The impact and value of business events won’t be maximised by cutting and pasting past models. For the sector to enjoy long-term success, inspiration and innovation need to be drawn from every potential source. From M&C/Asia: Event designers wanting to leave an impression on attendees can learn a thing or two from creators across industries…
Congress Organisers Launch ‘Dear Association’ Campaign Targeting Not-For-Profits
From AMI: The campaign will throw a spotlight on how IAPCO members can help associations through governance support, driving advocacy, and creating outcomes that matter. Martin Boyle, CEO of IAPCO, said: “Associations deserve the highest standards and IAPCO accreditation is that guarantee. From strategic guidance and content curation to logistical precision and compliance expertise…
18 January 2026
IAPCO EDGE Stockholm 2026
Under the theme “Bridging Minds: A Collaborative Innovation Journey,” EDGE Stockholm 2026 introduces exciting new features designed to make your learning journey even more impactful. Join colleagues from around the world for three days of dynamic education, meaningful connections and authentic Stockholm experiences — and help us launch the next decade of EDGE learning, leadership…
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Redefining Events in 2025
PCO consortium INCON has shared their latest webinar on meeting design strategies adopted by the ESCRS Congress — hosted in Milan (2022), Vienna (2023), and Barcelona (2024) — as a case study to showcase how these events have set new standards for incorporating circular economy principles in our industry. Presented in partnership with Global Destination…
The Perfect Moment for Our Industry to Unite and Show the True Impact We Create
Sissi Lignou shares her bold vision as President of IAPCO — a vision rooted in purpose, passion, and the power of a global community working together. From amplifying the voice of IAPCO Accredited PCOs and deepening member engagement, to championing advocacy, education, and collaboration, Sissi’s leadership is focused on shaping a stronger, more visible meetings…
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