Signature Boston

Our businesses and trade shows make a significant impact on the business events industry, our communities and the global economy. CEIR research supports this fact. What elected officials at the local, state and federal levels do directly impacts the exhibitions and events industry, in turn impacting the communities in which we work and live.

Exhibitions Mean Business exists to represent what’s important to us all and share proof points and data with those decision makers. We must help drive that conversation.

You can make a difference: by engaging with your local communities or on the federal level, your voice matters. Join EMB’s efforts to help key decision makers understand how exhibitions mean business. Contact Nicole Bowman, MBA, Executive Director, Exhibitions Mean Business for more information at nbowman@iaee.com or 469.534.3638.

History

In 2011, champions of our industry including Gary Sain, Steven Hacker and Vincent Polito came together to address a gap in how exhibitions and events were perceived by the public. Recognizing exhibitions and events represent many things to many people, these individuals saw that there was a need to have a cohesive platform under which all these values came together. The industry was a driving force in the global economy and needed a unified voice advocating on its behalf. Today Exhibitions Mean Business has support from professionals and organizations around the world, including associations, venues and convention centers, exhibitions-focused service providers, convention and visitors bureaus, and travel and tourism organizations. The campaign is focused on serving as a resource for audiences to learn more about exhibitions and events – impacting hearts and minds through targeted public advocacy activities, international visibility efforts and unique engagement programs that help share the value of the industry.

Campaign Goals

The goal of Exhibitions Mean Business is to promote the value of face-to-face meeting and events that positively impact local, national and global economies. Face-to-face connections made at exhibitions and events amplify the impact those connections have on our global economy. The campaign actively engages policymakers, business professionals, educators and young professionals to raise the overall awareness of the exhibition and events industry through a single, powerful voice.

Visit the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance site for updates on our advocacy efforts and ways to get involved.

ECA Website