UNDERSTANDING ASSOCIATION LEGACIES
FEBRUARY 2019 | APRIL/MAY | JULY | SEPTEMBER | NOVEMBER
#MEET4IMPACT CAPACITY BUILDING FOR FOCUS: PROJECT ASSOCIATIONS AC FORUM WHEREECONOMICSCULTUREANDACADEMICSUNITE We All Need Purpose
The world can be divided into two groups: the will consist of Millennials or Generation Z. An optimists and the pessimists—and we need both. interesting study on the Change of Generations The optimists view the world as getting better and shows a shift in sets of priorities . better: improved standards of living, reduced vio- Both Millennials and Generation Z were raised in lence, decrease in disease. The pessimists find this times of political strife and global crisis, sparking a perspective unrealistic and talk incessantly of global strong aspiration for equality and inclusion. Young warming, private interests ruling the world, over- professionals are bringing these motivations to the population, rise of fundamentalism... and the list workplace, and, in doing so, reshaping businesses to goes on. prioritize diversity, inclusion and gender equality. One thing is certain: in this day and age, the Where Millennials seek jobs that provide stability, world is becoming a place where business (in the 2019 convenience, and life balance, Generation Z is more larger sense) means much more than the profit it concerned with fueling their passions and taking generates. pride in the work they do. Generation Z seek mean- In the corporate world, it all started with social ingful work that aligns with their passion and will responsibility, once a catchphrase that’s transi- ultimately create an impact. FEBRUARY tioned from a trend to a well-respected character- For the first time, we are seeing a generation prior- istic. In the last decade, the buzz word has become 03 \ itizing purpose in their work. purpose, giving companies meaning that goes far beyond profit. As an association, no matter what type, you too will have to both attract and retain young talent. In the meetings industry, the concept of legacy is Generation Z are more likely to stay with organi- more commonly used. We facilitate the kinds of zations that value ethics and social responsibility, in exchanges that are essential to knowledge transfer, addition to organizations that create a positive envi- innovation, collaboration and social advancement. ronment that ensures individual growth and devel- This new collective view proves that outcomes are opment. This is the reason continuous education is the real purpose and value of the industry . strongly encouraged. But what does legacy mean exactly? Is it just And that’s why we are so happy with Boardroom’s another kind of business value or does it mean exclusive partnership with ESAE, the European that the industry realizes it needs purpose as well? Society of Association Executives, whose goal is It seems that we are still struggling with a clear to help members work smarter and better by con- definition. necting knowledge, insight and people. Education is In this context, it’s worth examining the young one of the top priorities for this organization, which workforce. By 2020, at least half of the workforce coincides perfectly with Boardroom’s vision.
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THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION GRAPHIC ELEMENT
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THE VOICE OF… EDITOR'S PAGES 06 26 AUSTRALIA INNOVATION AIPC 26 44 2019 AC FORUM 06 INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION 08 DESTINATIONS FOR STANDARDIZATION MOHAMED MEZGHANI 10
BESTCITIES IN BOGOTÁ 12 FEBRUARY
SIBOS IN SYDNEY 44 05 \ LEGACY FEATURE CANADA, 28 17 A KNOWLEDGE HUB
HOLLAND 30 50 THE HAGUE 34 MAASTRICHT 36 ANTWERP 38 SWITZERLAND 49 SARAWAK 58 SEOUL 62 LISBON & PORTO 65 #MEET4IMPACT 17 KIGALI 68 ESAE 20 ICT FROM COAST TO COAST 50 NANTES 70 CONVENE 22 CALGARY 54 TEL AVIV 72 IAPCO 24 OTTAWA 56
CONTENTS 06 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE structure whenitcomestothemanagement ofyourevents. 2,000 delegates at your mainconference, salaried staff, and some fixed qualifications have more to do with figures—you have to have at least capacity for the of yourcongresses management events. Other and low certain criteria, one of which is that you have to have in-sourced Membership is open to any association, but they would haveto fol- mercial influence. experiences in trusting and confidential environments free from com- our members with a varietyofopportunities exchange to network and learning fromeach other, as well as from external experts. We provide our membership structures and fieldsofinterest by educating and management. We liketo think that we’re doingthis by diversifying Our mainmission excellence inassociation is toadvance congress and and lookingatotherfields. learn more if we became a peer-to-peer organization by branching out to associations of various disciplines. With time, we thought we could associations, but it is now diversifying and membership today is open Up untilfiveorsix years ago,it composed ofhealthcare was mainly in-house organising teams for congresses and other educational events. exclusively for and byassociations with established headquarters and The AC Forum isnetworking platformestablished Europe’s only Can you introduce theAC Forum to ourreaders? Led by, Made forAssociations Convention &Incentive Bureau to create collaborative learning experiences The Associations ConferenceThe Associations Forum (AC Forum), whichprovides aplatform going to explore intheupcoming issuesofthemagazine. Theaim? Raising up apartnership withtheLeading Centres ofEurope andtheSwitzerland for peer-to-peer exchange onallthingsassociation-related, recently set Forum met to joinforces andestablished relationship, anew onewe’re for its members.To promote partnership, thisnew Boardroom andAC the AC Forum’s profile andhighlightingits manyaddedvalues, as AC Forum’s President AdrianOtt explainshere. The ACForum Interview RémiDévé on aspecifictopic. workshops are targeted, small-scale meetings with in-depth discussion recently, notions of personaldevelopment.But a constant is that all from astrategic as well as hands-on perspective, including also, since shops, we discuss congress and association management, seen both to include other association evolved management topics. In the work- were initially focused on congress management themes but have now Throughout the year we also organize various workshops, which a greatachievement). attendance (we had 99% of our association members present, which is tial solutions and we’re definitely pursuing that aim. We’re reaching out If youwanttodiversify,growing yourmembership isoneofthe poten- while atthesametimesayyouwant todiversify. a desire to be more visible. After all, you can’t remain focused on yourself our members. With time and the will to diversify our membership came safeguard our conversations to provide a confidential environment for I don’t think there was a specific choice to be low profile. We wanted to now. Whyisthat? It seemsthat theAC Forum haskept alow profile upuntil celebrated our 20 flagship event that takes place each In Vienna where January. we just We’re trying to spread education through our Annual Meeting, our Meeting? What can members expect at your mainevent, theAnnual th anniversary, we anniversary, almost reached 150 in terms of
different. soever. All activities are led by our members, and that is what makes us component, thisunbiasedcharacter withnocommercial influence what- associations. Whatmakes ACForumtrulyuniqueisthepeer-to-peer ing for associations. Some are private ventures, some are associations of There is also increasing competition when it comes to educational offer- tackling this challenge. you can make your members available and engaged? We’re constantly many thingsgoingon. Howdoyoucreate aneducation offeringso that Definitely toleveragetheengagementofourmembers. Thereareso organization? What would you sayyour challenges have beensofar asan help usachieve. ing about CLE (Collaborative Learning Experience), which our partners a subtle approach combing education anddiscovery. Here,we’retalk- nothing to do with selling something aggressively to our members; it’s these partnerships help us present a different value proposition. It has tion to this personal development component I mentioned earlier, and wanted to link strategic and operational considerations together, in addi- in which peoplewanttolearnhasalsochanged. As anorganization,we years ago. The virtual world has developed extensively, and the format members. Peopledon’tworkandlearnthe samewayastheydidten We set this up so we could offer a different educational format to our international conferences. with aproventrack record ofsuccessfully staging majorEuropeanand of Europe, this informal alliance of 10 of Europe’s largest venues, each tion Bureau (SCIB), we set up a formal relation with the Leading Centres In additiontoapartnershipwiththeSwitzerlandIncentives &Conven- Centres of Europe? Can you talk abouttheformal partnership withtheLeading mini-congress withdifferentstreamsandseveralparallelsessions. ers, andtipstricks, theAnnualMeetinghas since developed intoa we discussed theprosandcons ofdifferentdestinations, different suppli- enormously. From a roundtable discussion at the very beginning where things youputinplace attheAnnualMeeting,andthose have grown After 20 years of operations, you look at your various programs, all the important topics. think thatweallowforquality peer-to-peerexchange onavarietyof to haveopendiscussions withintheassociation community. We liketo cess. We still manage to keep it a trusting and confidential environment Definitely the excellence, this raising of standards – it’s an ongoing pro- What are someof your achievements sofar? mote what wedoandouraddedvalues. to newplatforms,likeIMEX forinstance, toseehow wecan betterpro- To learn more about joining the ACForum,visit acforum.net. values, thisisdefinitely analignmentworth focusing on. cept. Since education for associations isoneofourcore partner ontheCollaborative Learning Experience con- how theAC Forum andtheLeading Centres ofEurope In theupcoming editionsofBoardroom, we’ll explore What’s next? ADRIAN OTT EDITOR’S PAGES
07 \ FEBRUARY 2019 08 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE everywhere. As the name indicates, ISO’s everywhere. As the nameindicates, ISO’s with the visiontohaveISO Standards used members, ISO developedafive-year strategy Offering arangeofservices to support its ISO’S STRATEGY many challenges. rich inso much history,beenfaced withso before have organizations, especially those is the lifeblood of any association and never better –andsometimesfaster. Membership to buildtheircapacity, sotheycan dotheirjob viding themwithwhattheyneed,andhelping all aboutmakingyourmembershappy,pro- ties to become more essential. Simply put, it’s nities for associations and professional socie- ent, and disruptive innovation create opportu- Increased globalcompetition, the race fortal- International Organization for strategy, whichweare going to explore here, thanksto Boardroom’s special (ISO) is an independent, non-governmental(ISO) isanindependent, international organization with a membershipof163national standards bodies.Through its members,the economic, socialandenvironmental andprovide solutions development, All About Capacity Building based, market relevant International Standards that supportinnovation, Based inSwitzerland, theInternational Organization for Standardization association bringstogether voluntary, experts consensus- whodevelop to interesting global challenges. ISOhasavery regional engagement partnership HubsPartnership withtheGlobal Association (GAHP). Standardization ested parties (industry, consumers,ested parties governments, participation of form all and inter- increasing the network they our members, the strengthening butrather about have members in163countries) about growing our membership base (we already is notso much growth forus, international that, tary-General, explains: “Aparticularity ofISOis But as Nicolas Fleury, ISO Deputy Secre- tion, willhelpthem achieve this. use of technology, and a focus on communica- ple andorganizationdevelopment,effective ners. They believeastrongfoundationinpeo- bers effectively engagestakeholders andpart- membership andbyensuringthat ISO mem- high-quality standards through ISO's global the world. Theyaimtodothis bydeveloping national Standardsthatcan beusedallover mission istoproduce globallyrelevantInter- Interview RémiDévé challenges are shared and we do our utmost to find challenges are shared andwe do ourutmost to find obviouslyall” approach.Having said that, many a“one size fits respect, wecannotcome upwith this contextnational aredifferent,” says Fleury. in every lic, challenges and opportunities and the ernmental ornon-governmental, privateorpub- can range frombigorsmall organizations, gov - diversity of national contexts. ally, one of the major challenges for ISO is the increased dissemination of standards glob- its membership around the world and the When itcomes tothestrengthening of each ofourindividual memberorganizations.” of members, our success is reliant success of on the moving forwardconsidering as anetwork that, capacity building is a large part of our strategy use worldwide. This of ISO Standards and their organizations, associations, development etc.) in the “Our members “Our members
“In “In the commonalities between our members and stim- in terms the dissemination and development of ISO ulate the sharing of best practice stories and expe- standards,” says Fleury. riences, in order to take advantage of the power of One aspect of ISO’s strategy is to reinforce the our network. Being part of an international organ- network they have created through support ization such as ISO allows for a valuable informa- and initiatives at the regional level for all areas tion exchange and promotes peer-to-peer exchange of the world, whatever their specificities. This –- this is something we are very keen to foster.” is achieved through various approaches and mechanisms depending on the particularities of MAXIMIZING BENEFITS FOR MEMBERS each region. “As part of this approach on regional “There are a number of things we explore when we engagement, we decided to run a five-year pilot look at how we are strengthening our global com- office to support the Asia-Pacific region,” explains munity including, for example, the reputation of Fleury. “When it came to the location of the pilot, 2019 the organization, increased visibility of ISO and its we wanted a place that could serve as a central hub members, increased understanding of the value of for the region, easy to access from an international ISO Standards and their benefits, increased use of perspective, and with good infrastructure.” standards and increased participation in standards FEBRUARY development,” explains Fleury. “One way we look The geographical location of Singapore in addi- at participation, for example, is to explore how reg- tion to its excellent transportation links and 09 \ ularly a member proposes new ideas for standards international airport definitely had an impact (in our system our members suggest new work that on the decision to set up an office there “Our they feel would have a positive impact and the rest member in Singapore, Enterprise SG, as well as dif- of the ISO members vote on whether they agree) or ferent initiatives from the government of Singapore, how often a member comments on other proposals for example through EDB (the Economic Devel- and draft standards. These kinds of measures help opment Board) and STB (the Singapore Tourism us to understand, and therefore, improve member Board) which provided assistance and guidance on engagement.” topics such as company registration, office space, hotels and meeting places, helped us to set up this Recently, ISO opened a regional office in office, which aims to promote ISO and International Singapore. Growing internationally often Standards, develop collaboration and partnerships means having a better visibility towards your and support training and technical assistance in the community and enhancing your presence in region,” concludes Fleury. geographical areas that you might have never thought about before. It’s one of the ways you can provide value to your members or part- ners, as you help an exponentially greater This piece is part of the exclusive partnership between Boardroom and the the Global Associa- number of people find the answers to the ques- tion Hubs Partnership (GAHP), which comes as an tions or challenges they have, thus improving innovative response to the increasing decentrali- sation of international associations, as they look to the reputation of your organization. “Obviously develop their activities globally / we were aware that the Asia-Pacific region has a lot www.associationhubs.org of potential in terms of growth in general, but also
EDITOR’S PAGES Mohamed Mezghani It’s Time to Reflect
All through 2018, Mohamed Mezghani, one of Boardroom Advisory Board members, contributed a monthly column, in which he reflected about his role as Secretary General of the International Association of Public Transport (UITP). As a celebration of his hard work – and more often than not wise words – we are publishing the best bits of his contributions. In the 12 months that it lasted, Mohamed shared his insights on a number of topics that resonate among his peers.
ABOUT HIS ROLE ABOUT CULTURAL DIFFERENCES ABOUT THE POWER OF SHARING AS SECRETARY GENERAL When we work in an international con- There is one important rule: if you want to The multiple demands for meetings, delivering text, the cultural dimension is essential. We benefit you must share and get involved. Pas- speeches at events or interviews need a careful shouldn't see it as a constraint but as an oppor- sive participation is worthless. As far as I am organization and a priority management. It is tunity to enrich our own experience and to concerned, I measure the success of my partic- obviously very good for the ego. I call it the red learn. In this regard, there is one fundamental ipation in such fora [like the European Associa- carpet syndrome. This is precisely the trap in
10 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 10 principle: the world doesn't have a centre. If tion Summit, ICCA workshops, etc.] by the ideas which you shouldn’t fall. That’s why I decided you don't accept this, you'll be always consid- I collect from others that I could potentially to involve the President as much as possible in ering your perspective and your point of view implement at UITP, by the quality of people I representing UITP, and to share this task as as the reference and you'll often fall into cul- meet and I could learn from, and by the oppor- well with my directors who, according to the tural misunderstandings. tunities offered to me or my colleagues to con- topics, might be in a better position than me to tribute to events and share our experiences. speak on behalf of the association. ABOUT DIGITAL TOOLS ABOUT HAPPINESS AT WORK ABOUT THE ASSOCIATION MEMBERS At UITP we made the choice to launch a restricted networking tool, called MyNetwork, Happiness at work is a recognized science that The specificity of associations is that their shareholders are their customers, i.e. the which is exclusively reserved to our members. is more and more studied, and its concepts are members. They govern the association, decide It is the way to offer them one more exclusive implemented in a growing number of compa- on the rules, membership fees and programs, benefit. Indeed, if all communication is pub- nies. This is what convinced me to introduce and then they produce and consume services. lic what would be the added value to join the the position of ‘Head of People Management’ It means that they have to safeguard the gen- association? The aim is to offer information playing, amongst others, the role of Chief eral interest while assuming the consequence and share knowledge which will not be eas- Happiness Officer at UITP. Her main mission of their decisions at an individual level. There ily available on public forums, and package it consists in ingraining the association values is a risk of conflict if the governance structure according to the preferences of the member: into the culture of the organization in a sus- and bodies don't reflect the diversity of mem- by topic, by profile of member, by region, etc. tainable and determined way. The objective is bership. Therefore, it is important to have This is a way to offer personalized services and to grow the engagement and fulfilment of staff rules all members can follow equally. satisfy individual needs. by proactively fostering well-being at work MOHAMED MEZGHANI humble. Our role is that of a facilitator. So let's stay our members, and operates thanks to them. association isfirstandforemostmadeupfrom received with, we shouldn't forget that the relevant. But whatever the honors we are strengthen theassociation andmakeitmore remaining availableforourmembers Being diverse, credible, and equitable and ABOUT HUMILITY in public transport. political dimensionis so importantespecially ference inlocal affairs,inparticular whenthe to express thissupport while avoidinginter- port by a global organization. The challenge is achievements inthesevisits, andastrongsup- bers alsoseeanacknowledgement oftheir visiting members as oftenas possible. Mem- possible by a large network of offices and by gain trust in many situations and this is made Face-to-face meetingsarethe onlywayto ABOUT FACE-TO-FACE MEETINGS and theorganisationasawhole. and supportive attitudes towards colleagues common sense. common sense. sional domain,Ihave triedto share issues of whatever our field of activities and our profes- that I do hope it's yours too now. In the end, ceeded toengageyouwithme, inaworld your 'likes' andcomments. Ihopehave suc was apleasuretodoitandhonorreceive approach onmanysubjects inthiscolumn. It had the opportunity to share my views and This past year has really been exciting. I BOARDROOM ABOUT HISCONTRIBUTIONS TO - Transport of Public Association International About the Centres for Transport Excellence. and regional offices as well as two the establishment of14 liaison ated worldwide,together with different regional divisionshavebeencre years 15 last the over has office always beenlocated inBrussels, main UITP’s While 100 countries onallcontinents. national mobilityfrom about of urban, local, regional and fields the from contacts 18,000 companies givingaccess to over UITP represents 1,500member beneficial business partnerships. mutually forge and solutions find ideas, exchange to tise, andbringpeopletogether ting-edge knowledge and exper generating andsharingcut excellence andinnovation by inspire mobility solutions. They lic transport andsustainable promote andmainstream pub and other keystakeholders to ers, international organizations engageThey withdecision-mak urban mobilitytheworldover. UITP advocates for sustainable EDITOR’S PAGES - - - - -
11 \ FEBRUARY 2019 The Power of the BestCities Alliance in Bogotá
In December, BestCities Alliance participants gathered in Bogotá, Colombia – the only Latin American city in the Alliance – for the annual Global Forum. Now in its third year, the Forum has continued to gain strength, offering a wealth of content and wonderful hosts who can capture and engage an audience – traits that certainly befit this year’s ‘Power of the People’ theme.
Interview Rémi Dévé
Following Dubai in 2016 and Tokyo in 2017, the members of the BestCi- in engaging discussions and find concrete solutions through innovative formats,” ties Alliance invited a delegation of international associations to Bogotá explained Diane Kovats, Executive Director of the International Society at the end of 2018 as a way to enhance the skills and knowledge of asso- for Computational Biology. 12 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 12 ciation executives based globally. Held in collaboration with the Greater Bogotá Convention Bureau (GBCB), the Forum honed in on the concept THE POWER OF BOGOTÁ of creating change regardless of your surroundings – a perspective that made all the more sense in the Colombian capital, a city recovering from At a time when geopolitical issues and religious boundaries can create a complicated past. barriers for knowledge sharing and collaboration, Bogotá set the ideal backdrop for inspirational thinking. Despite its own set of challenges, the Local elements weaved their way into the Forum in the form of per- Colombian capital is a very appealing city. The friendliness, enthusiasm sonal stories. Neyder Culchac, a young leader from Putumayo, a region and warmth of its residents quickly twist the perception visitors may have in southwest Colombia, shared some of the conflicts he faced growing of the destination, undermining flaws such as mobility (which the gov- up that later inspired an initiative that transformed the lives of 480 fam- ernment is currently working on). Case in point: Bogotá is known as the ilies in his community. Lina Tangarife, Director of Social Responsibil- bike capital of the continent, with a network of more than 350km of bike ity at the Social Alliance of Uniandinos, meanwhile, has strengthened paths and “Ciclovías” cycling routes, used by approximately 2.5 million volunteering among public and private sector companies, making her a people every day. prime example of “The Power of People.” While her story is impressive enough, Tangarife also offered attendees sound advice on how to acti- As Colombia’s economic epicentre and business hub, Bogotá is an emerg- vate networks. ing conference destination with plenty of assets. Connectivity is just one highlight, with over 700 air routes from 44 destinations. Bogotá has also Besides traditional lectures – Rick Antonson and his cathedral think- been voted the fifth best city for business in Latin America, and, with over ing made a popular comeback – the Forum included hands-on, work- 60 universities, knowledge and innovation are continuously on the rise. shop-like sessions, which participants greatly appreciated. “I rarely attend these events, but BestCities provided the ideal platform for me not only to network With a strong portfolio of association wins – The World Summit of Peace with my peers, share my issues, and discuss my challenges, but also to participate Laureates and One Young World, the most important summit of young NEYDER CULCHAC 2019 FEBRUARY leaders, took place there in 2017; the International Conference on Pro- duction Research in 2018 – Bogotá has caught plenty of global attention 13 \ lately — and the city is ready for more. In recent years, Bogotá’s diverse What is the BestCities economy and favourable business environment have attracted large amounts of foreign investments, as well as business activities and events Global Alliance? from organizations based all around the globe, securing the city’s position internationally as a business and conference hub in Latin America. The BestCities Global Alliance is a worldwide partnership For some participants, this dynamism was an eye-opener. As Iain Bitran, of convention bureaux whose objective is to deliver the Executive Director of the International Society for Professional Innova- world’s best convention bureau practices for the meetings tion Management, explained: “I was not sure what to expect when I came to Bogotá. But with its wide range of infrastructure for events and its wonderful industry. The Alliance comprises members in Vancouver, people eager to make a positive change, the city is really inspiring; now I’m really Bogotá, Cape Town, Copenhagen, Dubai, Edinburgh, Hou- considering organizing something here.” ston, Melbourne, Singapore, Tokyo, Madrid and Berlin. The members exchange business leads, organize sales The Forum’s goal was to show the power conferences and meetings have on communities, creating change and leaving legacies for and by the com- missions and client workshops, and share best practices munities involved – a goal that was certainly achieved this year. and knowledge on the international meetings industry. Together with ICCA, BestCities initiated the Incredible Impacts Programme, which celebrates the “beyond tour- ism” lasting impacts made by associations; gives inspiring More information legacy examples; and awards much-deserved grants to On BestCities: www.bestcities.net On Greater Bogotá Convention Bureau: bogotacb.com internationally-based organizations.
EDITOR’S PAGES 14 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE FEATURE impacts. implementing positive societal and guidance oncreating and point where they needtools Associations are now at a impacts. implementing positive societal and guidance oncreating and point where they needtools Associations are now at a FEATURE
15 \ FEBRUARY 2019 FEATURE Understanding Association Legacies 2019 FEBRUARY 16 \
THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION behind, the term impact is a morecomplex ceived as something an organizationleaves ties such as conferences. While legacy is per- foster in their communities through activi tive and lasting change that associations can ‘societal impact’ to describe the kind of posi using the term ‘impact’, and morespecifically these efforts. Some havespokeninfavourof is the prevailing termused when discussing Much has been written about legacy, andthis behind alegacythroughtheirevents. ing into the idea that they could better leave how they have beenprogressivelybuy selves apartfromcompetitive offers, and niche which would allowthem to set them been reportedonhow to develop their own improve their value proposition. Efforts have to question themselves on how they can which has prompted the majority of them partners, attendees and retain members, and have beenfacing growing pressure to attract In recent years, international associations and measuring thepositivesocietal impacts ofassociation conferences. impact framework that willoffer a comprehensive process for generating, managing Leclerc, alongwithacoalition ofpartners, the#Meet4impact Project willcreate an to collaborate exclusively. Initiated byCaravelle Strategies andits founder Geneviève This isanambitiousproject butapioneeringone,to whichBoardroom isreally proud Amplifying the Societal Impacts of Association Meetings #Meet4impact - - - - through their Sustainable Development Goals through theirSustainable Development Goals national bodies such as the UnitedNations notion ofsustainabilitythat iscarried byinter- societal impact, wearecloser totheredefined Additionally, when talking about social and ety andtheenvironmentatlarge. impacts oftheirdecisions andactivities onsoci- that organizationstakeresponsibility forthe day and age, there is a growing expectation into this narrativethebroaderideathatinour ing the term‘societal’ to“impact”, we weave achieve this objective. Furthermore, by add- change and implements a course of action to one definesaclear intentionofgenerating that there isadeliberateprocess throughwhich The key word here is CHANGE. This implies CREATING CHANGE on thecommunityorecosystem. erated by anorganization through its actions ‘impact’ as the sum of changes that are gen- and transformativeconcept. We coulddefine value generated by an activity and include: value generated by an activity and include: In thisarticle,‘societal impacts’ designatethe management strategy. a resultofwell-plannedandexecuted impact partners (or members), it is mostly possible as generated by one’s actions and justify ROI from urement is necessary to communicate the value need formeasurement. Butwhileimpact meas- vailing discourse that there is an immediate impact, one is immediately faced with the pre- Furthermore, when discussing legacy or to therealizationofnewagenda. the privatesector — All stakeholders— ple, Planet, Prosperity, Peace and Partnership. ing needs at all levels and focusing on 5Ps: Peo- the 17 global goals include 169 targets answer- term prosperityandsurvival. Morespecifically, supporting the planet and its people in long- ment, set a roadmap for global action towards the UN 2030 Agendafor Sustainable Develop- (SDGs). The SDGs, rolledoutin2015as part of governments, civil society, governments,civilsociety, are expected to contribute areexpected tocontribute FEATURE
17 \ FEBRUARY 2019 18 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE and implementing positive and societal impacts. they need tools and guidance on creating media. Associations arenowatapointwhere cate the success stories shared in the industry and destinations working together to repli- plans orframeworkssupporting associations versation: there is currently alackofaction appears to be animportant gap in the con- scale up this trend to a real tidal wave. There if they arenecessary, they are insufficient to part of the story of impact and legacy. Even However, both of these narratives tell only a advocacy effortsonallparts. economic performance indicators, fueling tive data that does exist into numerical and and converting the quantitative and qualita revolves aroundthe concept of measurement are leadingthe trend. The second narrative ing of best practices from associations who one is focused on storytelling and the shar have emerged in the sector around this issue: literature and research, two strong narratives generating societal impacts. Based on current some, evenidentifying factors of success in published, outlining best practices and, for try groups or destinations are nowbeing University research commissioned by indus- are reallyinspiring. Disabilities International, to name onlyafew, Parkinson Coalition, ESSKA,ISPCAN, and Confederation for Physical Therapy, World with their conference;the likes of World nicate clearly the impact they are creating of associations that have started to commu- oped close relationships with the small group vious issues of this magazine. We have devel these initiatives have been described in pre- Cities Incredible Impacts program; severalof JMIC the and joint ICCA/Best BESydney, on legacyandimpact pioneers by such as We’ve beenfollowingthe work beingdone WHERE AREWENOW? progress, etc. decision making,community well-being,social affect societal issuessuch as:innovationand tal, legal and political impacts; and they may economic, social, cultural, ethical, environmen- - - - - FEATURE
Meanwhile, host cities want to help them A NEW INITIATIVE their own impact management program. It achieve this but they don’t quite know how. will also propose a pathway to link the dif- The #Meet4impact Project is an initiative to ferent efforts that are being undertaken by In a context where an association wishes to create an impact framework that will offer industry groups and demonstrate how these leverage its conference to “do good” and cre- a comprehensive process for generating, initiatives can complement each other. ate a positive change in the community that managing and measuring the positive soci- is hosting it, the possible synergies between etal impacts of conferences. It will propose One of #Meet4impact’s key features is that it the association and their counterparts in the a process enabling organizations to go from will propose a collaborative platform between host destination are obvious but perhaps the initial intention (of impact) to implemen- the association, its local host member, the CVB difficult to operationalize. It requires a pro- tation, to the measurement, and to generate a and the local ecosystem which the association found mind shift from the stakeholders maximum of value out of their efforts. It will aims to engage through their impact pro- in the destination, such as the convention gram. Another unique component is that bureau or, in some cases, the congress it is positioned as a social innovation ini- centre, who need to anchor themselves tiative that responds to existing needs and in the business sectors and knowledge Want to join challenges with new and different methods, clusters even more solidly than they have #Meet4impact? calling on collective intelligence, and aim- ever done before in order to be taken ing to generate change at the systemic level seriously as drivers of economic and (the association sector). Finally, on top of social development. With different ways of proposing industry-specific indicators of being active in the project societal impacts, the platform will allow The professionals in the convention available, associations can bureaus, who have forged a close bond participate by joining the participating organisations to identify with the international associations, are community, sharing their which UN SDGs their mission most aligns growingly expected to take a leadership experiences and learning with and register their efforts towards the 2019 role in introducing the former to their from others’ progress as achievement of those goals. various local ecosystems and they are they are rolled out. Destinations interested Currently engaging organizations working perceived as the ones who can initiate the in developing this in their city can benefit from an early participation. Be on the on social impacts, university researchers, links needed in host communities. For FEBRUARY lookout for progress being shared under an association to successfully generate industry consultants, a technology com- the #Meet4impact project and share your
pany, IGOs and an international founda- 19 \ tangible positive impact in a local com- stories by joining our #Association4impact tion, the #Meet4impact project is a grow- munity, there should be a close alignment community online. between their intentions and the needs of ing coalition of partners deeply committed the community they hope to engage with. Get in touch with us if you are interested to supporting associations in their efforts to A sustained and flourishing collaboration in exploring becoming a Founding Partner, amplify the impact of their mission deliv- between these different groups will yield supporting our efforts or want to be kept ery. Over the coming months, the project informed of our progress: a wide stakeholder coalition that will will roll out a beta phase, where Founding [email protected] / amplify the potential of transformative www.Meet4impact.global Project Partners (consisting of an associa- impact. tion coupled with a convention bureau in different cities of the world) will be embark- But the association meetings sector has ing on a journey where they will test the struggled with coming up with a con- certed and impactful methodology for man- methodology, working together and draw- help to demonstrate the cause-to-effect rela- aging impact for several reasons: it lacks ing on collective intelligence in a co-creation tionship that allows an organization to claim knowledge in the science of social impact exercise akin to a “Living Lab”. Their constant accountability for the impact they are creat- assessment and so far, there have been no feedback and that of other participating entities ing and to communicate this clearly. clear indicators for the sector. There are vir- will allow the methodology to be iterated and tually no benchmarks serving as reference Practically, the framework will be comprised refined from the initial process, which will give points, and we are still lacking frameworks of a methodology, a toolset, an online plat- way to a truly powerful yet customizable model and predictive models for use by the industry form including a catalog of indicators and for associations to use in the future. It is an to help demonstrate the cause-to-effect rela- a progress dashboard, and the professional ambitious project that Boardroom will report tionships generating change. support to assist organizations in creating on in each of its upcoming editions. Legacies of Association Events Two Case Studies
For this first collaboration with Boardroom, part of an exclusive partnership ESAE signed at the end of last year, Jenny Ennis, Meetings Manager, European Society of Sports Traumatology, Knee Surgery and Arthroscopy (ESSKA), and Fanny Senez, Events Manager, International Association of Young Lawyers (AIJA) look at two examples of association conferences that have left positive legacies in their host cities.
Legacy is one of the many buzz words thrown around with increased fre- For the first time, Glasgow Convention Bureau worked with the Glasgow quency in today’s society, especially in the not-for-profit and associations Science Centre to host a special event for members of the public, featuring sectors. But what does leaving a legacy really mean for the events industry? Professor C. Niek van Dijk, a world-renowned surgeon who has treated international dancers and athletes, such as Cristiano Ronaldo. Professor According to the Cambridge English Dictionary, there are many defini- van Dijk shared stories and insight from his career in the hope of inspiring tions and meanings. Legacy is something that is a part of history or that Glasgow’s next generation of medical minds. remains from an earlier time; it is something that is a result of past events; it might relate to money or even property. Zhanna Kovalchuk, Executive Director of ESSKA, commented: “This was the first time that we have engaged with members of the general public during one 20 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 20 Speaking specifically about events, the first two definitions seem to be the of our congresses, which really helped to raise our profile within the city and open most relevant. However, the economic legacy left by an event, such as the up our congress to new audiences. Given that it was Scotland’s ‘Year of Young Peo- visitors it brings or the revenue accumulated for the host organization, ple,’ we also hope this will have motivated those considering a career in medicine to must not be underestimated. The best way to examine the legacy question, find out more about our specialty.” of course, is to look at real examples. As the gateway to Scotland, 35 ESSKA delegates took advantage of Glas- gow’s prime location by participating in a four-day cycling race to raise TRAUMATOLOGY IN GLASGOW money to support research led by the ESSKA Foundation. The 377-km An interesting case study is the ESSKA (European Society of Sports Trau- “Cycle for Science” challenge took delegates on a tour through the Scottish matology, Knee Surgery and Arthroscopy) biennial Congress held in Glas- countryside before returning to the city just in time for the opening of gow in 2018. The event attracted over 3,200 international delegates from the congress. It was an incredible experience for those involved — locals 101 countries, contributing £5m in direct benefits to the city. This in itself and visitors alike — and, at the same time, left a positive legacy for the can be considered a legacy to be proud of. However, for ESSKA, legacy was Foundation. also about creating links to the local community and showcasing the appeal Aileen Crawford, Head of Conventions at Glasgow Convention Bureau, of Scotland as a destination of choice to a new, multi-national audience. said: “ESSKA is a great example of how we, along with our partners across the From the start of the bidding process in 2012, ESSKA leadership was city, can work with conference organizers to take the subject matter of the con- impressed by Glasgow’s commitment to sustainability and legacy. Glas- ference outside the walls of the convention centre and into the local community.” gow’s ethos is that events should always leave a positive footprint behind. Following the success of this legacy left in Glasgow, ESSKA is now Like many associations, ESSKA organized numerous parallel activities committed to ensuring that its future events will always leave a posi- during the congress that involved local communities—some of which even tive legacy, working closely with convention bureaux from conception extended beyond Glasgow’s city limits. right through to delivery of the project. ESSKA strives to create deep, on local social and cultural entities is the MWC Donation Room, where all on local social andculturalentitiesis theMWCDonationRoom, where all Meanwhile, aninteresting initiativethatprovidestangiblelegacy impacts Barcelona. ties, such asBarcelona City Council, L’Hospitalet City Council and Fira were achieved through stronglocal partnerships with thecity authori- of businessontheenvironment,including attheoffice. Again,thesegoals On a larger scale, the carbon neutrality program aims to reduce the impact Show” bytheGuinnessWorldRecords in2015and2016. 2018 andwasrecognized as “The World’s Largest Carbon Neutral Trade participation. The Congress has been certified carbon neutral from 2014 to cling their badge, and minimizing the impact of their travel and on-site ticipants can directly contribute by offsetting their carbon footprint, recy- organizers have set upanambitious EnvironmentalProgramwherepar- attendees andover2,400companies each year. Foryears now,event cles asoneofthelargesteventsitskind,attracting more than107,000 Barcelona’s MobileWorldCongress(MWC)isknowninassociation cir- tainability programs. consideration byeventorganizers andassociations, usually aspartofsus- Environmental concern is one such issue that is increasingly taken into Avoiding anegativelegacy isjustasimportant creating apositiveone. MOBILE INBARCELONA turing such networks,notjustduringevents,butinthelongtermas well. nities. It appoints local ambassadors to support them in creating and nur- sustainable relationships withacademic, professionalandothercommu- their visionandmissionintoatangiblereality. Responsibility’ policies. They will undoubtedly help organizations turn play a strong role in the development of new kinds of ‘Association Social The millennialgenerationenteringtheassociation workforce mayalso taken. tion bureaux and local authorities to inquire what simple actions can be sultancies, smallerassociationscan actually knock atthedoorofconven- organizers havethebudgettoleadway,sometimessupported bycon- Legacy may be realistically seen as a future ‘must’ for associations. But if tourism, butalsoduetolargeevents. against theincreasing numberofvisitorsthatwerenotjustasaresult ity inthecity followingthenegativepresscoverage ofresidentsprotesting population perspective. Notsolongago,legacy programs became aprior- The Barcelona Mobile Congress is also an interesting case to look at from a tributed to20selected local organizations. ble organisations. In2018,31.5tonsofmaterials werecollected andredis- exhibitors can donate materials fromtheirstands to local socially responsi- associationexecutives.eu Society of Association Executives. Tolearn more about ESAEvisit: This article ispart of an exclusive partnership between Boardroom andthe European FEATURE
21 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Making Analytics Count at Data for Good Exchange
Years ago, when they decided to launch a conference focused on data, the team at global information and tech company Bloomberg wanted to do more than focus on how data can improve operating efficiencies and boost revenues. They wanted to explore how data science methods and modern machine learning can be applied to solve humanitarian issues and give back to society at large. Maybe something for associations to be inspired by?
Words Molly Petrilla 22 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 22 had discussed. panel, which allowed everyone to hear what the workshop participants workshop, the conference offeredanend-of-day“workshop takeaways” This led toanotheridea: since relatively fewattendees could attend each our attendees are really is something this interested in and engaged that in.” Cerullo said. “Thattoldus were lines door,” there outthe demand forthem, “We couldonly was so much haveabout50people ineachworkshop, butthere fourth focused onusingdatatohelpcommunities inneed. aging collaboration across sectors in the increase census-response rates. A third workshop talked about encour- detect bias intheirdata-driveninitiatives; another,howmediacan help varied sectors. Onegroupdiscussed howgovernmentscan findand The conference wasdividedintofourworkshopsfocused ondatain help attendees developfreshideasfortackling majorchallenges. handful ofworkshops,which weredesignedtosparkdiscussions and concrete,” Cerullosaid.Asaresult, this year’sprogramincluded a thing really —said they sleeves datascientists anddosome wantedtorolluptheir the was greatcontent, greatinformation,“Attendees said there but—particularly — its programmingeach yeartobetterservetheirdiverseaudience. organizers continue totweak,refine—andsometimessignificantly expand The DataforGoodExchange isstillarelativelyyoungconference, so PUTTING FEEDBACK DATA INTO PRACTICE Introduced in 2014 aspartofthe 20 how itcanhelpthem.” data is important,” Cerullo “and just said, want tounderstand that “know Europe, andAsia. Some attendees work with data everyday.Others come mostly from the U.S., butalsoflewinfromSouth America, academics, nonprofit leaders, policymakers,anddatascientists who all through the lens ofdatascience. Its audienceincludedresearchers, equality climate and change to humangenetics the and U.S. census — This the year, event tackledissues single-day ranging fromgender beaddressedbymarketforces.” mightnototherwise that socialgood for the participants to buildcross-sectorrelationshipsenables while solving problems Good Exchange website page describes its mission this way: “Theforum it is at our conference.”be discussed extent that Bloomberg’sDatafor to the Good Exchange, she said, the Data for Good Exchange. Before Bloomberg created the Data for Victoria Cerullo, conference lead for the 2018 D4GX, shorthand for meeting] really [this From the beginning, “we felt that filled a void,” 1,000-attendee capjustthreedaysafteropening. people wanted to attend but couldn’t: registration filled to the event’s year’s meeting in Bloomberg’s New York City headquarters, even more Exchange has its doubled attendance in just five years. And forlast expanded to a standalone eventthe following year, the Data for Good on KnowledgeDiscovery and Data Mining in New York City and “there really“there to wasn’t a forum fordata for good th ACM SIGKDD Conference The movement.” The “data forgood said -
the impactofdata.” the everyone,” to use, interpret, and feel Cerullo said, “needs to be a data scientist including people who were not necessarily inthe room at D4GX. said, the topic of accessibility relevance was and discussed, in terms of cial impact of not having womenin theAnd finally,she boardroom? parity: asmorecompanies what disclose makeup, is board the finan- Another conversation aboutequity and datahadto do with gender and provideinsights forfuturemodels?” records,” formal but rather property is passed generationfrom down togeneration no with someregionsworking indisaster that recovery are unaware don’t use deeds, populations are reported in the 2020 U.S. census. from the government andother sectors, such as how to ensure that all equity of representation in datathat determines resource allocation came up in manydifferent conversations andcontexts.” Cerullo said the Looking backat the fullslate of programming fromthis year’s D4GX, groundisjustsovaluable.” on the something with connect that at lots of data on their day-to-dayspreadsheets,” at lotsofdataon their really typically because they’re value this sitting in front ofscreens, looking of Milanbetter manage its data. ter population around New Yorkand athird Harbor, helped the city worked with the Billion Oyster Project, which aims to restore the oys- with its post-Hurricane Maria population survey. Another student This year, one pair of students helped a nonprofit in the Virgin Islands and howtheyapproachedthem. atives from the nonprofits they assisted — to discuss those challenges students appear onapanelat the conference — alongside represent them off to help nonprofits solve real-life data challenges. Then the several doctoral students who study data science or statistics and sends economic development corporation — the program offers a stipend to Lab — a consortium of New York City-based universities and the city’s elements, the immersion program. Via a partnership with NYC Media their work takes center stage in one of her personal favorite conference Cerullo said that graduate students are a significant part of D4GX, and STUDENT POWER editor Molly Petrilla isaNew Jersey–based freelance writer forConvene. ing agreement Boardroom haswith Convene, the PCMAmagazine. Contributing This article, excerpted andmodified forBoardroom, ispart ofaspecial content-shar- “how can those affected be meaningfullythose can Cerullosaid,“how served “broad theme of equity — andits multiple definitions ofequity — “broad theme “Students have always told me that they “Students they have always told me that Cerullosaid. “Or, if data “Or, collectors Those included “To be “To able to “Not FEATURE -
23 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Relationships Underpin Success
Legacy is cemented in relationships. The way we learn from each other, relate to different experiences and viewpoints and interchange our philosophies, form the basis of humanity. Our position in the world becomes defined by our association to others. To our ancestors, our present circle and our imagined future selves. These connections, and their power to shape who we are, leave a significant indent in our life’s course – in our legacies.
Words Ruby Kraner-Tucci & Sarah Markey-Hamm
Relationships have always been an important INSPIRING TRANSFORMATION These decisions extend further than environ- mental impact as companies have long turned focus in the business world – it is critical when Former CEO and now Executive Chairman of to making their products, and processes, eth- it comes to success. Understanding what the Starbucks, Howard Shultz, powerfully spoke ical. Whilst the fashion industry is constantly client wants and how to best deliver, support- to this idea. He emphasized how authenticity gaining undesirable attention for its abuse of ing other workers to produce their best work inspires transformation: “In this ever-changing and collaborating as a team, even with divid- power when it comes to sustainability and ethi- society, the most powerful and enduring brands are cal sourcing, global retailer H&M has redirected ing opinions, is crucial. A final product often built from the heart. They are real and sustainable. this negativity. They have committed to supply extends back to several layers of input – it Their foundations are stronger because they are chain transparency by publishing an up-to-date is rare to accomplish something completely built with the strength of the human spirit.” list of suppliers’ names and addresses on their alone. website each quarter. Examples of harnessing aspects of success out- Shifting our perspective of legacy from one side financial liability are constant. McDon- Closer to home, Kathmandu became the first that is tangible to intangible has become ald’s, perhaps one of the biggest symbols for brand in the Southern Hemisphere to receive increasingly common. Measuring events by corporate greed in our Western world, has this accreditation by the Fair Labour Association in financial success no longer holds such weight year pledged to use renewable, recyclable or 2018, offering tools to help companies better within society. It instead has become centered certified materials in all packaging worldwide protect and aid their workers. Other retailers, on the immaterial actions of organizations by 2025. Last year, Google’s global operations like The Body Shop and Cotton On, offer sup- which impact the world and people around became fully powered by renewable energy – port through donations and regular collabora- them. Holding a lens to how we create mean- and they became the world’s largest corporate tions with international and domestic charities ing in business is particularly pertinent in our buyer of renewable power. Tesla is skyrocket- and community organizations. fast-paced technological era. Focusing on rela- ing in sales and support for their eco-friendly tionships – both positive and negative – pro- electric powered cars. Locally, the rise of com- CHANGING THE LEGACY duces greater transparency, accountability and panies like Keep Cup and Frank Green, which Whilst these actions have been at the forefront long-term success. It is a defining factor in the both sell reusable coffee cups, have risen based of our decision making for a while now, it is creation of a business. on our desire to help save the planet. still critical in highlighting the importance of sure to follow. sure tofollow. tainable legacy ofrespect andadmirationisonly starts withourengagementothers–asus- To create a legacy within an association, it all and ourenvironment,justly. accountable andstrivetowardstreatingpeople, become fairerifwecontinue toholdeach other and empowered. Business practices will only fort zones. They make us feel supported, loved within it. They force us to step out of our com- ers alters how we see the world and our place our track in life. Our connection with oth- and altogether on the personal front, cements of staffbytheirleader,consumers byacompany Relationships arefoundational.Thetreatment replaced easily humanones.” werethe didn’t only realize the that could not be assets that dryrot, whobelieve intakinginstead ofgiving… who organizations whose leadership became infested with bones of those the of industry are strewn with fields General Motors, sums this idea perfectly: Leroy H. Kurtz, made famous byhis workwith relationships havetowardstheirgrowth. their legacy because oftheintangiblenecessity on how we are responding. They are changing is changing. They are altering their course based reach – and they are listening to how the world their consumer, their partners and their global emphasizing the connection they hold with becomes highlysignificant. Organizations are ical practice forexample,despiteitscost, thus aiding theenvironmentandconducting eth- success and stability. Turning focus towards suggest that the purpose of business is financial relationships. Without hesitation it is easy to [email protected] /www.iapco.org conventions andspecialeventsfrom41countries managers ofinternationalandnationalcongresses, congress organizers,meetingplannersand companies comprisedofover7500professional (www.icms.com.au). IAPCOrepresentstoday130 Markey-Hamm fromICMSPtyLtd,Australia isers, authorsRubyKraner-TucciandSarah Association ofProfessionalCongressOrgan This articlewasprovidedbytheInternational - “The “The FEATURE
25 \ FEBRUARY 2019 THE VOICE OF AIPC Can a Convention Centre Contribute to Member Value of Associations? 26 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 26
At the heart of the associations value proposition is networking and professional development and the benefits of these two features are often the strength of the membership. Meetings have long been the delivery method for these interactions.
Words Julianne Jammers on the campus and in the area complement the on the campus and in the area complement the tions. Dozens of startups and multinationals innovative and productive scientific institu- Fédéral de Lausanne) is one of world's most on campus, the EPFL (Ecole Polytechnique With over 350 laboratories and research groups in relevantfields. access toknowledgeandtalentassociations elements. We play an active role in providing our USP beyond just these arguably critical Geneva in Switzerland, we have developed Tech ConventionCenter,onthebanksofLake hour’ activities. Atthe university-basedSwiss- their destinationistopofmindforthe ‘after and conference management and ensure that tion centre is to provide excellence in facility Many wouldarguethattheroleofaconven- VALUE FOR ASSOCIATIONS experience. tacts and deliver an overall unique member an educational environment,developnewcon- collaborate closely with associations toprovide see ourselves as a real partner to our clients: we that. AttheSwissTech ConventionCenter,we more creative than ever before in how they do value intheirmeetings—andtheyhavetobe new and innovative ways to deliver bottom-line association business,therealityis thatthey need So while conferences remain a pillar of the nology isorgets,physical meetings stillmatter. hassle of travel. But no matter how good tech- tion for the environment concerns, cost and platforms. Arguably,ithas alsoprovidedasolu- webinars, open online courses and networking method to accessing these features through the meeting business providing an alternative To some extent, the internet has disrupted offering on the EPFL campus. offering ontheEPFLcampus. solutions andsustainableenergy– astrong access to the expertise in both traditional energy campus, wecan, however, offerassociations partner thankstoourlocation ontheEPFL energy city perse,asaknowledgeandresearch While our destination is not considered an related association meetings. economies, with the intent to attract energy- group of destinations with significant energy member oftheEnergyCitiesAlliance –aselect tional value.TheSwissTech recently became a identify appropriate venues that can offer addi- a differenceforassociations intheirquest to Alliances thatsupportthesestrengths can make moments whererelationshipsareborn. – toencourage andcreate thoseserendipitous networking sessions –akindof‘speed-dating’ members. We have helped to create special provide associationsaccess totheirfuture a resource for delivery but also as participants, to doctoral programs into the meetings, both as Integrating studentsofalllevelsfrombachelor have uniqueandlastingvalue. matches withtheaimofcreating meetingsthat ous associations, allows us to help make likely our professors,whoaremembersofnumer- Complementing this, ouractive outreach to pus in the development of their programs. most respectedscientists, located onourcam- eration with the experts, some of the world’s associations that can benefit from a close coop- On the one hand, we actively identify relevant ideas. centre isagoodplace tomeetandexchange university environmentandtheconvention
their stakeholders. vention centres can create a win-win for all of to access theknowledgein the economy, con- economic strengths and creating opportunities that match up with local, regional or national associations. By targetingthose associations are located. The same case can be made for tend tolookforvenueswherethoseindustries Conventions closelyrelatetoindustriesand venue. hotel rooms and a well-equipped and flexible beyond majesticlocations, ahealthy supplyof ing at what they and their community can offer in bringingmorevaluetoassociations bylook- Convention centrescan playanimportantrole casing thiseffort. tion their meeting as a credible platform show- ciations have an excellent opportunity toposi- significant timeandmoneyrecruiting andasso- people underasingleroof?Theindustryspends for talentthanduringaneventoflike-minded industry. What better place, indeed, to hunt meeting partnersandsupportersfromthe can be a compelling incentive for association knowledge andstudenttalent,butthis access Not only associations have direct access to AND EXHIBITORS VALUE FOR ASSOCIATION SPONSORS [email protected] /www.aipc.org professionals worldwide. involvement ofmorethan900management-level 195 leadingcentresin64countrieswiththeactive zerland. AIPCrepresentsaglobalnetworkofover SwissTech ConventionCenterinLausanne,Swit Julianne JammersisManagingDirectoratthe In additiontoherroleasAIPCBoardMember, MEDIA - PA FEATURE RTNER
27 \ FEBRUARY 2019 28 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE DESTINATIONS associations all over the world. benefits of hosting innovation and knowledge for the numerous social, Creating astronger case
28 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Creating a stronger case for the numerous social, 2019
innovation and knowledge FEBRUARY benefits of hosting 29 \ associations all over the world.
DESTINATIONS 30 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE
WORDS RÉMIDÉVÉ strong drive for innovation and knowledge, that make it truly unique. destination, it may beasmall country, but it isthiscompact environment, coupled together with a at place with visionary architecture, cutting-edge design and vibrant nightlife. As aconference masterpieces, centuries-old windmills, tulipfields and romantic candlelit cafés seemperfectly In Holland, and tradition modernity like, intertwine maybe, no other place inthe world: artistic Netherlands Forward Thinkinginthe BOARDROOM INSIGHT SERIES THEIR ASSOCIATION APPEAL DESTINATIONS AS KNOWLEDGE HUBSAND TAKING ADEEP JOURNALISTIC DIVE INTO
30 \ FEBRUARY 2019 AMSTERDAM LIGHT FESTIVAL and congresses. Association meetings are less flexibleindates but acknowledges that “it may beless applicable for conventions events rotate throughout Europe andbeyond, Bakermans Asked ifthisconcept canbeapplied toassociations whose places.” as aleisure orbusiness destination rather thanjust theknown and meeting planners toconsider other parts of theNetherlands ism insome places, some of thetime,and toattract future visitors tional arrivals intimeandplace.This helps toovercome overtour- overarching strategy, whichis allabout thespread of interna- ventions (NBTC), explains: “‘Holland City’ is thenameof our Conventions at the Netherlands Board of Tourism &Con- industry. Eric Bakermans, Director Marketing Meetings & City,’ which recently launched infullforce inthe meetings All of these factors contributed tothe branding of ‘Holland driving global trade. the destination aninternational gateway epicentre andthus Amsterdam in just 20 minutes and Rotterdam in 30, making in the middle. High-speed trains from Schiphol connectto inside a 50-km circle, with Schiphol International Airport — Holland’s majorfinancial andindustrial centres —allsit makes thispossible. Amsterdam, Rotterdam andThe Hague country as onebig integrated city. Thecountry’s size is what land’s convention bureau wants associations tothinkof the Taking all of this into consideration, it makes sense that Hol- Holland City making it simple tohop from city tocity. Schiphol servingasahub andaconvenient train system ture: everything is easily accessible, with Amsterdam Airport mile thananyother destination. Thisisnot amarketing pos- offering more attractions, museumsand venues persquare and great convention infrastructure, isits compact size, ference destination, inaddition tothis open-minded outlook One of the mainreasons Holland issuch anappealing con- flourished. to the world, aplace where freedom andhigh trusthave pleasures is cycling around Dutch cities – Holland is open visitors alike explore by twowheels –oneof the greatest dyke, canal,river andcoastalshore, where the Dutch and ing the country is.With scenic landscape found onevery last as well asits green initiatives, show justhow forward-think studying Holland’s trailblazing contemporary architecture, Y Gogh and Piet Mondrian would dwell on its past, but ebrated Dutch Masters like Rembrandt, Vermeer, Van ou might think that the country that gave birth to cel- BOARDROOM INSIGHT SERIES\NETHERLANDS DESTINATIONS \QATAR -
31 \ FEBRUARY 2019
©NBTC 32 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM INSIGHT SERIES sites—tailor-made, if youwish.” offer thanks to numerous museums, performances andcultural dam Marketing. And weaddvaluewith anoutstanding cultural startups andpartners such as Amsterdam In Business/Amster- add value through knowledge with our universities, companies, Meetings &Conventions for the City of Amsterdam. “We the meeting orcongress,” explains Martijn de Boer, Director tutions tostrengthen theproposition of nesses, cultural andknowledge insti- region andtrytoconnectwith busi- that take place in Amsterdam and the dam approach, wefocus onmeetings in That’s exactly what they trytodo conference’s unique theme. other business partners related toa audience members,sponsorsand speakers, exhibitors, researchers, a targeted availability of potential planners and provide associations expertise toengage international leverages the country’s industry host. Thissector-specific strategy gresses that make sense for them to and attract thoseinternational con- water management –andidentify logistics, justice andsecurity, and (media/design), energy, high-tech, tors –agriculture, chemical, creative country’s nine major industry sec conferences. NBTC work onthe that canhelp drive thisgrowth is and entrepreneurship. Onefactor continue the growth of innovation challenges, the Dutch find ways to times of global, social and economic long-standing history of invention. In world andisaleading global knowledge centre with a Holland boastsoneof the 20largest economies inthe Growth throughconferences lands, Iliketothinkthat is always anoption toconsider.” other factors, of course. Given thecompactness of theNether- might be open for flexibility in place, depending on volume and Amsterdam. “With ourAmster- - Alliance Congress Holland network. tent creation, unlocking alarger Netherlands, thusassisting incon - key playerspertop sector inthe Alliance provides access to the The associations? for benefits The knowledge andtop sector policy. sustainable partnership, sharing national conferences through a to create added values for inter oftheNetherlands,”policy itaims ence that ties in with the top sector associations to organize aconfer “connecting platform thatinspires Centre andPostillion a Hotels. As Amsterdam Congress & Exhibition owned partners suchasRAI Amsterdam, aswellprivately terdam, TheHague& Utrecht, encompasses thecitiesofRot The HollandCongress Alliance University.” sity of Applied Sciences, Technical University of Delft &Leiden But weare also within close proximity of The Hague Univer- Sciences, and other affiliated universities of applied sciences. ing Erasmus University, theRotterdam University of Applied terdam is perfectly balancedbyacademic institutions, includ- Rotterdam Partners. “Theentrepreneurial character of Rot- are mobility challenges, andAmsterdam isonthe ready to the area isafrontrunnerinthe life sciences sector. Then,there Health —Personal, Predictive, Preventive andParticipatory – vative data-driven applications. Asabreeding ground forP4 with a great digital infrastructure andthe ability tobuild inno- has everything it needstobecome the data hub of Europe, becoming ahub forproducts andraw materials. The region The Amsterdam Metropolitan Area is,forinstance, gradually There are manysectorsin which Amsterdam stands out. - - - vention Bureau &Tourism Board, Pluijm-Degenhart, Manager Con- vation Center),” says Eveline van der European seat of theCambridge Inno- life science &health (among themthe cifically targeting food, maritime, and Dock) anddeveloped accelerators spe- (for example at the RDM Innovation lished asignificant startup ecosystem sectors, thecity has successfully estab- “Because of thebroad array of key vices, andlife science &health. logistics, insurance &business ser- energy, innovative technology, maritime &offshore,& cleantech economic sectorssuch asagrifood, operates at aglobal level inother Europe’s maritime cluster, but also Europe,’ meanwhile, isthe hub of Rotterdam, the ‘Gateway to adaptive inEurope. tion andlabour markets are the most to ensure that, by 2025,its educa - adapt. TheAmsterdam region wants tional system was not fast enough to industrial revolutions, the educa - History teaches usthat in previous the search forTalent forthe Future. tainable manner. Lastbut not least is approach them inasmart andsus- data applications andother technological solutions, and tions in the use of limited space, experimenting with open and smart city. This includes applying innovative solu- idents, andregion of Utrecht tocreate agreen, healthy These parties work together with the municipality, res- ness services, andICT. health, sustainable economics, gaming, financial and busi- institutions involved insectorssuch aslife sciences and with cancer; andmore than100companies andresearch strands of highly complex care andresearch forchildren Center forpaediatric oncology, bringingtogether allthe care facilities inthe Netherlands; the Princess Máxima Medical Centre Utrecht, oneof the largest public health- research universities inthe Netherlands; the University Key institutions include Utrecht University, oneof the best tive, significant boosttothe regional economy. demics andentrepreneurs join forces toprovide acollec academic conferences. Utrecht Science Park is where aca- link, makingthe city exceptionally suited toorganizing knowledge centre inthe Netherlands, serves asthe vital nesses andinstitutions. Utrecht Science Park, the largest offers an extensive network of knowledge-intensive busi- junction of the country’s key motorways andrailway lines, Utrecht, just30minutes from Schiphol Airport and at the energy andrenewables, legal andfinance, and oil and gas. including cyber security, IT and telecommunications, in The Hague alsoencompasses a variety of industries, presence inthosesectors.Theknowledge infrastructure ting forassociations tomeetandestablish aninternational fields (more on this onp34-35), it provides a unique set- 1899. With strongindustry andacademic clusters inthe hosted the first-ever international peace congress back in justice andsecurity around the world. Case inpoint: it – ing the International CriminalCourt, Interpol andEurojust Home tonumerous international organizations –includ- gresses that align with ourclusters andsupport ournetworks.” challenges, wework hard at identifying andbidding oncon- benefits. As ourvision is set firmly ontoday andtomorrow’s we are abletooffer a subvention fund as well as other in-kind genhart adds: “For those congresses matching ourtopsectors, tion for a successful congress. Eveline van der Pluijm-De- demia andindustry inanefforttocreate astrongfounda- to stakeholders within the triple helix of government, aca - tem inRotterdam, asthe Bureau acts asthe connector International associations willfindastrongsupport sys - The The Hague , Holland’s capital city, aimstoprotect peace, - on Maastricht p36-37). imaging technique (more genetics, andrelevant hi-res lems, vascular diseasesand diseases, structural prob- expertise inmyocardial recognized forits clinical (MUMC+) isinternationally University Medical Centre+ Meanwhile, the Maastricht regenerative medicine. innovative diagnostics and on precision medicine, innovation andfocuses ome of acertain senseof Health Campus isthe epit- the Brightlands Maastricht economy in life sciences, Spearheading the regional field of health andmaterials. strengths lie primarily inthe forcing how the city’s radius of the centre, rein- located within a 20-km university hospitals are medical schools, andfour competence centres, three and private research and tional ambience. Four majoruniversities, numerous public ized by a rich history and culture, with a strong interna- Union was signed back in1992,Maastricht ischaracter- Famous forbeingthe place where the Treaty onEuropean associations. make the city really standout when it comes tohosting tural scene and wide array of historic and modern venues cht’s thrivingeconomy, well-educated residents, rich cul- encouraging clean energy alternatives tofossilfuels. Utre- www.holland.com/global/meetings [email protected] More information BOARDROOM INSIGHT SERIES\NETHERLANDS Holland Fast Facts ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ delegates at MECC Maastricht. +/- 5,100hotel rooms /upto 5,000 Maastricht anddirect surrounding: hall Amsterdam, 12,000intheexhibition / 1,750seats intheauditorium ofRai Amsterdam: +/-48,000hotel rooms World Forum 2,161 seats intheauditorium ofthe The Hague:+/-4,000hotel rooms / Convention Centre (RACC) up to 12,000pax at Rotterdam Ahoy Rotterdam: +/-9,000hotel rooms / bition hall 25,000intheexhi- Jaarbeurs Utrecht, / 1,500seats intheauditorium of 3,185hotelUtrecht: rooms by2024 DESTINATIONS \QATAR
33 \ FEBRUARY 2019 The Hague A Safe Haven for Peace, Justice & Security
The Hague is an international leader in the promotion of Peace, Justice and Security around the world. On the occasion of the One Young World Conference, a summit for young leaders on-the-rise and professionals striving to build a better world, which the city hosted in October, Boardroom learned how The Hague lives through its diplomatic values for the world of associations. The Dutch capital indeed offers ample opportunities for international organizations with the aim of advancing an agenda across the peace, justice and security sectors.
Words John McCarrick
As the host to numerous international organ- at the conference is fierce, where potential The event attracts high-profile speakers from
34 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 34 izations – the International Criminal Court, delegates must present a detailed submission the world of international relations, man- Interpol and Eurojust – the Netherland’s cap- to be considered. A geographic and cultural agement, show business and academia. Bob ital city’s objective is to protect peace, justice diversity is also applied, with attendees from Geldof, the renowned musician turned activ- and security around the world. The aims of more than 190 countries around the world ist, addressed the conference as Keynote. In the One Young World Conference, hosted are chosen. addition, numerous CEOs such as Ronan at The Hague from 17-20 October 2018, Dunne, President of Verizon and Nobel Peace The prospect of driving forward their polit- aligned seamlessly to the metropolis’ values. Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi took to the ical, business or charitable objectives, never- As a gathering of over 1,800 of the world’s stage to share their expertise. The vision for theless, is worth the competitive admissions up-and-coming leaders in the political, busi- the conference comes from its co-founder and process. Feben Tamrat, a fellow from the ness and charitable sectors, one was very well organizer, Kate Robertson, and is inherently African Union in Addis Ababa, looks for- placed to understand how organizations at clear: “Give young leaders a chance to meet their ward to the networking opportunities at the The Hague and the wider world would col- counterparts from every country in the world and summit each year: “Many people here are work- laborate to build a fairer, more sustainable resolve to make the world a better place”. ing towards the same goals as I am: these valuable and efficient world. contacts will allow me to find quicker and better DARK HORSE solutions to my country’s and my organisation’s FORWARD DRIVEN challenges. It is a fantastic forum for sharing The serene city took delegates in its stride. The summit brings together young leaders expertise”. To comfortably host the summit’s Decorated to stylishly welcome the con- from associations, governmental organiza- 1,800 attendees, the conference made use ference, One Young World flags fluttered tions and global companies to drive positive of two key landmarks in the city, the Peace peacefully around The Hague, much like the change around the world. Gaining a place Palace and World Forum The Hague. avenue of the 193 United Nation member to solve international disputes. Constructed to solve internationaldisputes. Constructed of anInternationalCourtthatwould beused Netherlands advocated for the construction ago, when the then Queen Wilhemina of the center of excellence began over a century national organizations. Its endeavorsasalegal with over 30,000 officials working for inter- as the UN’ssecond city, behindNewYork Geneva. The Hague, however, is a dark horse Brussels, Washington DC, Singapore and most would primarily consider cities such as When considering global political centers, just like institutions the ”. wehost dotoo global values ofpeace andsecurity veryseriously, us. We we take the to understand that want them visit is extremely their itors see that importantto vis international committed tomakingsure that about makingdelegatesfeelathome:“We are Bureau, underlinesthatthecity ispassionate Sabine Erkelens, from the Hague Convention states’ flags in the city’s international zone. - you wantto make a difference in on a global stage security, peace, law andjustice. If international solutions and canofferworld-leading expertise on have some ofEurope’s most innovativeconvention ambitions. international their We achieve them welcoming associations of all kinds and helping izations We and companies. are well-versed in organ- world’s largest international some of the occupying skyscrapers city,wehost across the DutchGovernmentministries the the city: “With a bright future for associations working in Schot, of the Hague ConventionBureau sees meeting and conference spaces Bas available. tions go without saying, aswellthe ample justice. and Links tothe international institu ence in the sectors of peace-building, security establish to meetand an internationalpres- The Hagueis a unique setting for associations Permanent CourtofArbitration. Palace (Vredespaleis), and is known as the 1913, this court is today housed in the Peace - Committee. Institute and the UN WomenNetherlands for Foreign Affairs, the World Resources edge. Members include the Dutch Ministry the exchange of technologyas well as knowl alliances, inspirational collaborations and aim is to facilitate chance encounters, new physical infrastructure to grow. The hub’s tions, providing them with the expertise and ple: a forum that brings together organiza- The HagueHumanityHubis one such exam- emerging associations and NGOs to thrive. The city’s academic culture encourages placeforyourassociation.” the right partners, The Hague is the and connect with conventionbureau.thehague.com thehague.com \ More information DESTINATIONS \THE HAGUE -
35 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Maastricht Gets Toxic
Maastricht might be known internationally for being the place which laid the foundations for the euro, thanks to the Treaty on European Union signed in 1992, it has also gradually become a trailblazer in the field of life sciences in general, and more specifically in toxicology. No wonder IUTOX-EuroTOX 2022, the International Congress of Toxicology, will take place at MECC Maastricht, contributing to the positioning of Maastricht and its surrounding region as knowledge hubs.
Words Rémi Dévé
A city characterized by a rich history and Sciences of the Maastricht University, leading International Union of Toxicology organizes culture, but also by a strong international the way. an international conference,” explains de Kok. ambience, Maastricht has long understood “When it is organized in Europe it coincides with that only innovation and knowledge, as well TOXICOLOGIC PERSPECTIVE the annual meeting of the European Federation of as great universities, research institutes and Toxicologists meeting, which is a yearly meeting. competitive clusters, are key to a sustainable Chaired by Professor dr. Theo de Kok, Those are two large conferences: if they both took future. In this context, Maastricht has Department of Toxicogenomics, University place in Europe, that would be considered too 36 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 36 notably become a frontrunner in the field of of Maastricht, IUTOX-EuroTOX 2022, much competition, hence the decision to have a life sciences, with facilities like Brightlands known as the International Congress of combined meeting. The benefit for IUTOX is that Maastricht Health Campus, the Maastricht Toxicology, will take place in Maastricht, it is attended by a higher number of participants University Medical Centre+ (MUMC+), with an expected attendance of 2,000 from Europe, who otherwise wouldn’t go to the and the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life scientists. “Every three years, IUTOX, the international conference.”
THE NEW MECC MAASTRICHT provided good support from the verystart. I was the support from provided good city’s conventionMaastricht, as well as the bureau, to dojust so. We decided to team up, and MECC IUTOX-EuroTOX as an opportunity identified – and beyond actually – and MECCMaastricht region andMaastricht in the of toxicology field Kok. bid was very local,” initiative to lead the from relevantpartners in the industry. to compose a strong bid with commitment scientists, couple of renowned they managed Society of Toxicology. Together with a Kok instrongcollaborationwith the Dutch Locally, the bid was led byProfessor de relating totheprofession. perspective issue on every development and members –it offers a diverse and challenging as from industry,academiaandgovernment continents and over25,000 toxicologists 63 affiliated societies representing all six nations. in 1980, Founded IUTOX nowhas this knowledge to developing societies and issues to extend and facing humankind increase the knowledge base of toxicological on the globalstage; the organization seeks to IUTOX represents the voice of toxicology MECC Maastricht to host conferences ofupto 5,000delegates. adapted to include multi-functional rooms. The redesigned layout will make itpossiblefor rooms and spaces willbeadded,theExpo Foyer new willbeenlarged, andthe Forum Passage willbe Many facelift. complete a getting be also will auditorium the of interior The more openstructure, sothat visitors can easily findtheir way around. thanks to theadditionofopen spaces andspyholes.Theconference centre willhavea change willbetheglassshellaround theexisting auditorium, makingitmore transparent, the venue An upgrading of MECC Maastricht will take place in the next years. few Set to open late 2020, MECC Maastricht: the upgrade “As anassociation,we want toestablish the (pictured left) (pictured w ill bemore attractive andfunctional, andthemost noticeable saysde “The achieve. business and social advancements it helps the related scientific, professional, academic, at the very centre of the global economyand grasp sometimes, that also places what you do create. If those are a bit more difficult to and communitybenefits that such events economic, business, professional, academic to think terms in broad and lookat the like IUTOX-EuroTOX, youindeedhave values that are associated with conferences to demonstrate the kind of broader “output” spend in hotels and restaurants. If you want they leave morebehindthanwhat delegates sharing of best practices. In terms of legacy, opportunities knowledge andprovide for the Conferences are greatplatformstoshowcase KNOWLEDGE SHARING it!’ attitude.” instrumental building in the of my‘yes, I can do magnitude. I have to say MECC Maastricht was up anddid jobmyself,stood especially the ofthis amount of work involved,but I had never the of conferences. world tothe I recognized a rookie human-scale city.” Liège, it makes a powerful combination for a in Aachenand includeuniversities clusters that regional Institute orthe the of Data Science, Campus, like Brightlands Maastricht Health the facilitieswas a winning combination – add tothis you caneasily It walk from one place to another. innovative venues like MECC Maastricht, where mix of medieval features, high-tech industries, maybe. world Wein the presented an optimal new are combined likeold and the nowhere else compact city, which is very livable, where the we presented Maastricht as a typical European, opposite direction: sowehadtogothe there, is on acompletelyEverything different scale Netherlands. inhabitants are like half of the the in Asia, which interms of size and two huge cities to present,” bid Ihad context ofthe interesting in the quite a conference destination as such. Professor de Kokalso praises Maastricht as sector.” inthe region toworkwith are here, and howMaastricht is a very interesting to showcase what kind of facilities field, there the way to be recognized as a very key good player in toxicologicalattention youcanget. That’s a all the wholeduration centreof the event,atthe ofthe pedestal in a way. As a destination, youare, for like IUTOX-EuroTOX, you put yourself on a context conference of aninternational in the If world. you make your domainhighly visible candidates,PhD the staff postall over doc from “We collaborate a lot,wehavelotofemployees, is highly“This field deKoksays. international,” [email protected] \www.mecc.nl Contact: DESTINATIONS \MAASTRICHT he says. “We were competing against “That was
37 \ FEBRUARY 2019 The Digital Transformation of Antwerp
The city of Antwerp, the global diamond capital also known for its port activities and its petrochemical industries, might not exactly be viewed as a world leader in digital innovation, and yet it is just that. The city administration extends a hand to start-ups, research partners and its industrial hinterland in several projects that have elevated Antwerp to the status of one of Europe’s most promising smart cities. In that regard, the city is slowly but surely carving out a position for itself on the international stage.
Words Rémi Dévé, with Visit Antwerpen 2019 FEBRUARY 38 \
THE NEW PORT HOUSE OF ANTWERP THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION with the city’s hospital but alsosomeofits network, private partners rienced business mentors and networkingopportunities. Together bring in start-ups of their own, offering coaching, expertise of expe- business Several incubators have set up shop at the same location. They comfortable breathing room to look for international opportunities. start-ups. It accommodates them for upto three years, giving them StartupVillage, apicture-perfect growth space for promising local A centrepiece of the city’s policy on innovativeentrepreneurship is have followedintheirwake. combining workandleisure on topofthe common office amenities, A significant share of new co-working spaces that offer an ‘experience’, house, accommodating andcoaching those new digital entrepreneurs. accelerators, such as Start it @kbc, The CoFoundry andThe Bird- The city isofbusiness array host incubators to anever-expanding and to innovativecompaniescanbeeasilyexplained. modern arts, design and architecture, and Antwerp’s magnetic appeal a hub of creativity, with international acclaim in the areas of fashion, practices and the support ofSME’s. Add to that Antwerp’s legacy as partner in several Europe-fundedprojects on the exchange of best prepares themforthe global stage. As such, it has become arelevant agement, design,advertising,fashion etc.) with feedback that valuable data-man panies fromallareas(InternetofThings,eHealth,energy, As a testing ground for innovative ideas, Antwerp provides young com- TESTING GROUND and minglefreeofcharge. become entrepreneurs, by offering them a co-working hotspot to mix general, it encourages students with big ideas to take the plunge and support in the form of affordable office spaces and expert advice. In preneurial pursuitsprograms provide several localgovernment and incubators connect venture capital investors with promising entre- creative population young, of earlyadopters. and IT-savvy Multiple port system and an ambitious smart city vision, thanks to a remarkably the course of the astart-up-friendlysup last several years,developed Europe’s largest integrated oil and chemical cluster, Antwerp has, over If it’s hometosomeofthe largest seagoing vessels in the and world, alike. quality of lifeforits enjoyable inhabitants internationalvisitors and leisure, global ambitions and agenuine concern for nurturing a highly reach, Antwerp embraces both heritage and innovation,business and An atypical,compact metropolis where everything seems to be within - - or applicationinreallife. for Internet of Things companies that want to test a particular sensor of these initiatives combined, makeAntwerp a very attractive prospect management andvisualisation platform centralising all dataflows. All other companies. The city’s IT departmentis building anopendata up its logistics and shipping data onanopenplatform,accessible by experiments with drone technology and smart trucks, and is opening that gather data on–forinstance – traffic flows or airquality. The port As such, Imec is outfitting the city with data transmitters sensors and largest real-lifeInternetofThingslivinglab. transforming Antwerp and its port into what’s soon to be Europe’s institute for nanotechnologyanddigital technologies. Together they’re Antwerp, the University of Antwerp and imec, a world-renowned It created a partnership – namedCapital of Things - with the Port of than becoming just another smartcity, Antwerp chooses another path. open datastrategy digital interaction and with it citizens. But rather The city invests significant resources in connectivity, a future proof it comes to Antwerp’s unique smart positioning on the European stage. The city’s tag trademark ‘open forbusiness’, perhaps rings truest when applications inelderlycareandpatientmanagementplatforms. StartupVillage, coaching investing and in start-ups building wearable, Flanders’ onlye-health incubator – BlueHealth Innovation Centre – in such as Agfa Healthcare, UCB, Cronos and Microsoft , the city hosts into ahighlysustainablebusinesspark. ing smart homes – andBlue Gate Antwerp, a brownfield redeveloped stage, with infrastructure projects such as‘Nieuw Zuid’–self-sustain trucks. It has also put durable technologies and renewables centre management, investing, for instance, in smart bins and smart garbage as solutions to any moderncity’s challenges, like mobility and waste In amoretraditionalfashion, Antwerp invests in smart digital services safe wayduringaheatwaveortofindshadyspot. insightful map that givesyoutips to cross the in apleasantand zone on climate adaptation. The fourth last concept and is an appwith an specific needs in real time. A third one is a game via augmented reality sors are placedonlamp-posts,allowingthe lighting to betailored Antwerp’s residents. Two concepts focus on smart lighting where sen- – four very concrete projects that, in the end, will improve the life of specially designed SmartZone.In2019, four concepts were selected Antwerp actually invites companies to test their technologies into a SMART &TRADITIONAL DESTINATIONS \ANTWERP -
39 \ FEBRUARY 2019 How the City of Antwerp can help
Offering independent, free of charge advice, Visit Antwerpen can provide different forms of support to associations looking to organize their event in the diamond capital. From providing information to delegates about the destination, to the organization, for instance, of a reception at the town hall or an alternative location with the special attendance of city officials, or the support with bid dossiers, anything is possible. All conferences are eligible, based on a number of criteria, such as the number of delegates above 500 people, the international nature of the conference, and the link with economic clusters of the city.
The city, its Capital of Things partners and Agoria unveiled The Beacon Technology Forum. Antwerp is present at international exhibitions as in September 2018, just ahead of the international technology festival well, like Smart City Expo World in Barcelona or the World Cities SuperNova – an innovation hub for companies developing products Summit in Singapore. and services through the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence. Antwerp also seemed to have been where associations met lately. In Offering offices and flex seats to start-ups, it is designed to be a venue March 2018, a few hundreds of association executives converged to where all players in the IoT sphere – from small firms to major cor- city from across Europe to attend the Associations World Congress, porations, plus pioneering researchers – can come together, find the one of the largest conferences of this kind – the event was co-located 40 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 40 right partners, open up new opportunities and create new solutions alongside the Association Leaders’ Forum for Executive Directors, that will benefit the participating companies and, most importantly, the focusing on critical issues of importance for association leaders. Mean- end-users. while, AIPC, the international association of congress centres, will Managed by Co.Station, a Belgian company very well-versed in nur- hold its annual conference at FMCCA in June, bringing together its turing enterprise ecosystems,The Beacon will accelerate its residents’ members to consider key industry issues and hear from top profession- development in the domains of smart city, smart logistics and smart als in a variety of business events related fields. industry by enhancing their business models, stimulating their R&D Being host to so many associations who experience the city and its many and providing them with a dense network of potential partners and offers lie at the core of Antwerp’ ambitions As an international meet- clients. Combined with the city’s living lab premise, The Beacon gar- ing destination, it now competes on the global scene and its strengths ners significant international attention to Antwerp as a hub for smart to do so are numerous: a good location only half an hour from Brus- industrial solutions. sels, a compact, human size, an easy transport system, accommodation options for all kinds of budgets, and an excellent mix of traditional and FOR ASSOCIATIONS ONLY modern facilities overall. Being able to show what’s on offer, is obviously part of the game. Ant- werp’s next economy is a perfect companion to its more traditional economic engines in attracting major international conventions. The brand-new conference Flanders Meeting & Convention Centre Ant- Contact werp (FMCCA) – the only conference venue in the world with a zoo! – can host all mid-size conferences up to 2,000 delegates. Examples of www.visitantwerpen.be/en/business \ [email protected] upcoming conventions in the field of technology include imec’s Imec 2019 FEBRUARY 41 \
YOUR ASSOCIATION WILL REAP THE BENEFITS
If you organise international meetings and events for an association then you need to be at Association Day, 20 May 2019. It’s fun, friendly and a treasure trove of valuable information.
Learn how to solve challenges faced by associations across all industry sectors. Hear from top speakers, get inspired and connect with your tribe! Register your interest at: Then, stay on for IMEX where you’ll meet with destinations, imex-frankfurt.com/whats- venues and suppliers to gather ideas for your future events. on/association-day
THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION
IMEX_Boardroom_210x250.indd 1 09/01/2019 19:36 A New Generation for Jerusalem
By day, Jerusalem’s Machane Yehuda market (nicknamed the shuk) is buzzing with hundreds of vendors selling spices, freshly baked sweets, and fresh produce piled in colorful stacks on tables lining the streets. At night, the scene transforms entirely as the 19th-century market takes on a more modern feel with craft beer bars and gastropubs. This contrast between trendy and traditional is what’s helping Jerusalem revamp its reputation and attract a new generation of conference attendees to the Holy City.
Words Lane Nieset
Jerusalem was deemed one of the hottest conference delegates and organizers. Now late is due largely to the FIT (free independent
42 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 42 travel destinations of 2018 by Bloomberg that Boardroom readers are familiar with travelers) who are usually younger, curious and thanks to the growth of inbound arrivals, the key industries and clusters Jerusalem has drawn to the mosaic character of the city and its which increased by 38 percent reaching 4.8 to offer from our “Knowledge in the City” unique energy.” million arrivals—up 32 percent from the year series, it’s time to focus on another important One way to give delegates a sense of the before. “Jerusalem’s tourism industry has had side of the city—tourism. Here’s what attend- its ups and downs because of regional instabil- ees can do outside the conference and where country’s history is through a tour of one of ity,” explains Anat Landa, Convention Man- to go after a successful day of meetings at the the largest and most significant cultural insti- ager at Jerusalem Conventions and Visitors International Convention Center. tutions in the country—the Israel Museum— Bureau (JCVB). “However, in the last decade, the followed by a gala dinner. After touring the archaeology wing, which displays findings image of Jerusalem as a tourist destination has BEYOND BALLROOMS completely transformed, largely due to massive like the Shrine of the Book (where the Dead Jerusalem is one of the oldest cities in the efforts by the government and municipality to put Sea Scrolls are housed), delegates will realize world, with structures and artefacts dating Jerusalem on the tourist map—and keep it there. the scale of Jerusalem’s history. One major back over 3,000 years. Gala dinners in quar- Recent indications of success include TripAdvisor bonus: they can network in a space filled with ries built during King Herod’s time aren’t ranking Jerusalem fourth in a list of the most ancient masks and rare Judaica objects instead just a dream—here, they’re a reality. “For promising places for vacation across the world.” of just another ballroom. centuries, people have been singing and praying In their daily work promoting Jerusalem about Jerusalem. Artists paint their visions of it, COSMOPOLITAN CITY as a conference venue, the JCVB is work- poets write sonnets about it. Jerusalem is in the ing closely with the scientific community in hearts and souls of millions so it is only natural “We are marketing and promoting Jerusalem as Israel to promote bids to Jerusalem, which that it would be a desirable destination,” Landa an international city. People already know about is seen as an intriguing destination for both says. “The increase in tourism to Jerusalem of Jerusalem being the center of three major religions, the increasingly cosmopolitan city. This a signthat times are definitelychanging for in the first stage of the Giro d’Italia road race, salem to watch cyclists race through the city Last year, 10,000 spectators gathered in Jeru- days. three hours,” more overnight stays. “Instead of staying three but for the last decade, the city is hosting City and then continuing on with their trip, while visiting Israel; quicklytouring the old their checklist of places to see for afewhours In the past, visitors would add Jerusalem to delegates toenjoy.” ductions andso muchmorewaitingforconference pro- festivals, concerts,are international theater cityactuallynumber givenhowsmall the is. There “ creative andcharismatic city,”Landaexplains. which is a vibrant, innovative, entrepreneurial, but our job is to show the 21 but our job is to show the Jerusalem boasts more than 70 museums—a large 70 museums—a large Jerusalem boasts more than notes Landa, “tourists stay for at least ” st century Jerusalem, century Jerusalem, participants. try’s largest marathons, with over 30,000 tional Marathon in March—one of the coun- the city year, will host the Jerusalem Interna- ISRAEL’S INNOVATION HUB for culturalattractions. within the city as well as discounted tickets Gurion Airport,free bus and light rail service provides free public transport from Ben ference delegates is the JLM City Pass which newest benefits the city is providing tocon- city’s tourism start-up culture. One ofthe ment advice tohelpdrivethe growth of the offering business develop networking and one of the more recent additions to the scene, is salem EntrepreneurTourismHub(JETH) and venture capital investments. The Jeru- an innovationleaderthat caters to start-ups salem continues to build on its reputation as As well as hosting international events, Jeru- - sightseeing.” combine conference travel, with vacation and wishing to make a great destination for those Jerusalem and IsraelI think [as awhole]would The ICC would be an excellent venue for us, and visit.ference. This has been a very illuminating salem as a possible location for our medical con - professional eyes norseriously considered Jeru- salem, Ihadnotpreviously through them viewed “ FAM trip participant sums it up perfectly: One of the more recent reactions from a ference destination is the annual FAM trip. decision makers with Jerusalem as a con- One of the JCVB’s strategies to acquaint key Despite many previous visits to Israel and Jeru- www.jerusalemcvb.com. as aconvention destination on More information on Jerusalem DESTINATIONS \JERUSALEM
© TOMER FOLTYN
43 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Sibos in Sydney Global Growth Through Impactful Meetings
For Sydney – and its convention bureau and convention centre – global meetings that create lasting impacts for an association’s membership worldwide, as well as the host city’s local community, has been the core goal for years. And by hosting Sibos last year – organized by SWIFT, the global provider of secure financial messaging services – this goal was well achieved, with impacts both Sydney and Australia as a whole will feel for a while.
Words Rémi Dévé
BESydney, the city’s convention bureau, has been studying the banking sector, garnering an attendance of over 7,600 delegates from long-lasting impacts of conferences for, well, a long time now. When 158 countries, including the largest representation of Asian financial they first partnered with the University Technology Sydney (UTS) institutions in the event’s history. in 2011 to scientifically validate what they knew anecdotally, they As it celebrated its 40th anniversary travelling all over the world, the con- embarked on a journey to systematically study the benefits of business
44 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 44 ference was a major win for Sydney. “Technology has been described as the events, which go beyond tourism. At the time, the research project was largest industry on the planet, and in financial services, Australia has proven its considered a world-first in its approach and methodology. capability to produce unique solutions with global application,” says Lyn Lew- In its wake, BESydney and UTS released two publications – Beyond is-Smith, CEO of BESydney. “We see global meetings like Sibos as the ideal Tourism Benefits: Measuring the Social Legacy of Business Events in 2011 and platform to showcase that talent to the world and to spark new collaborations. Conferences: Catalysts for Thriving Economies in 2015 – that show how con- Sibos was a great win for us, and a great win for Australia.” ferences extend way beyond economic impact thanks to the thousands of During the four-day conference, delegates experienced a dynamic pro- delegates who visit Australia. gram, which included a trade show with 180 exhibitors, custom-built These two reports help the industry explain how interactions and collabo- stands, interactive zones and live activations. Both the convention and rations that begin during a global meeting are instrumental in developing exhibition centres were exclusively activated for the duration of the strong communities open to finding innovative solutions that, ultimately, event, while an additional 75 private meetings ran concurrently to the build a better world. Over the years, Sydney has woven this approach into official program in a range of ICC Sydney’s flexible spaces. its bidding philosophy, creating a stronger case for the numerous social, ICC Sydney, together with the event organizers, also had to get creative innovation and knowledge benefits of hosting conferences and conven- to make use of everything the facility could offer. Pop-up and multi-pur- tions — with the objectives of its global clients at the centre. pose locations were created for delegates to enjoy in between sessions, taking full advantage of the venue’s waterside location and natural light. STRENGTH IN NUMBERS One highlight included the transformation of the 5,000-sqm, open-air When Sibos took over ICC Sydney in 2018, the main objective through- Event Deck into a connected garden sanctuary – the ultimate place to out the event’s organization was to help SWIFT achieve its goals. Sibos rest and reflect on sessions from the industry’s top experts, complete 2018 attracted a global audience of senior decision makers from the with early morning Tai Chi classes. ICC SYDNEY DESTINATIONS \AUSTRALIA ASSOCIATION LEGACIES
45 \ FEBRUARY 2019 © GUY WILKINSON CREATING IMPACT to deliver the maximum community impact by ensuring the flow of ben- efits from events reaches a broad cross section of the community. This With Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) deeply embedded in ICC includes connections with universities, the Sydney start up community, Sydney’s culture and business model, the aim was to make sure the venue local artists and performers, and First Nations businesses. created the maximum economic – as well as community – impact.
Chantal Van Es, Head of Sibos, says: “ICC Sydney helped us every step of the BIGGER PICTURE way, from the very moment it was announced Sibos 2018 would take place in the city. We worked closely with ICC Sydney’s CSR team to develop multi-fac- Sibos created opportunities for collaboration and networking between eted initiatives that helped us meet our ambitious local and international businesses, academics and disruptors. “While social, environmental and economic goals, focus- our 2014 estimates of the event’s impact were for ing on everything from recycling to community a $38 million direct expenditure into the state engagement.” Sibos 2018 economy, all these intangible business and knowl- edge economy benefits take this impact beyond Echoing Chantal’s comment, ICC Sydney CEO Fast Facts tourism dollars to well in excess of $100 million,” Geoff Donaghy explains: “The program focused Lewis-Smith explains. “This is a great example on reducing the ecological footprint of Sibos at all ¬ Held 22-25 October 2018 at ICC of the role we play in bringing the world to New stages of event delivery, as well as supporting com- Sydney South Wales to generate opportunities for trade and munity engagement. This included organic waste ¬ 4-day conference, with an additional investment, attracting global talent and delivering and recycling processing initiatives, minimization 75 private meetings a vital soft power platform for New South Wales of plastic water bottle consumption, excess food and Australia.” ¬ 7,600 delegates from 158 countries donations and the establishment of the first ICC Sydney Charity Market Day. Here, event exhibitors ¬ 180 exhibitors In this context, Sibos helped raise the interna- 46 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 46 tional profile of Sydney and the State of New collectively donated 150 items to seven local charity ¬ 5,000 sqm open-air Event Deck South Wales as a financial centre, home to organizations to be repurposed for their commu- transformed into a connected garden local innovation and a sophisticated fintech nities, from artificial turf to umbrellas and potted sanctuary plants.” ecosystem. As a result, they foresee a strong ¬ Over A$40 million in economic impact pipeline of business, investments, exports and In a record result for an event of its size and ¬ Waste diversion rate of 62.5% other opportunities that could have very pos- scale, a waste diversion rate of 62.5% was ¬ 150 item donations from event itive outcomes on the economy of not only achieved, including 88% of materials being exhibitors to seven local charity the city but also the state. BESydney also con- diverted from landfills during the event bump organisations ducted onsite, face-to-face surveys with del- out and the reduction of 15,200 plastic water egates and exhibitors revolving around busi- ¬ 2,564 meals donated to community bottles. ICC Sydney’s partnership with OzHar- ness outcomes that may have formed due to members in need vest and Matthew Talbot Hostel also helped their attendance - the results will be available save 855 kilograms of food, equivalent to 2,564 ¬ 1,120 tons of fertilizer produced from later this year. meals that were donated to community mem- organic waste matter bers and 1,120 tons of fertilizer produced from organic waste matter. “We’re committed to reducing the event’s environmental footprint and con- tributing positively to the local communities who welcome us so warmly each For more information on business events in Australia: Simon Gidman \ Business Events Manager, UK & Europe \ T: +44 207 438 4633 \ year,” Van Es adds. In that regard, the opportunity for ICC Sydney was [email protected] \ www.australia.com/businessevents to create a new paradigm in the way that venues like them operate and WORLD CLASS WORLD CLASS EXPERIENCE local entrepreneurs andstartups intoyourevent program. connect withregional farmersandlocalproduce, embed Enrich yourevent withFirst Nations cultural experiences, collaborating withyoutoensure eventexcellence. you withSydney innovators, creatives andcultural champions, to deliverauthentic, localexperiences. Ourteam can connect entertainment venue, places community at events the heart of ICC Sydney, Australia’s premier convention, exhibition and
MANAGED BY AEG OGDEN ICCSYDNEY.COM +61 call or 29215 7100 sa Email out howyoureventcanleave alastinglegacy. Contact theteam at ICC Sydney todaytofind International opening Bar Association ceremony the at perform Dance Bangarra company, Nations First [email protected]
47 \ FEBRUARY 2019 AWC19 -Advert BoardRoom.indd 1 choose from sessions to parallel 7+ HOST SPONSORS www.associationsworldcongress.com Sweden Gothenburg 2019 7-9 April delegates 250+ association Connect with & EXPO WORLD CONGRESS ASSOCIATIONS Courses Courses Crash interactive 5 executives inspiring world-renowned keynotes from 4 Use thecode BR10whenregistering Save 10%onyour Congress Pass Special Discount consultants experienced Briefings from Expert 16 case studies Success Story 15 ASSOCIATION LEGACIES discussions talks &group educational 56 associations providers to solution 100 ORGANISED BY Series in the 28 1/15/2019 11:03:12AM th
48 \ FEBRUARY 2019 just convention bureaus explaininghowgreat itwouldbefor you–andthemifchose It’s always better to haveorganizers talk abouttheirexperience inagivendestination than them for Inorder theirnext for youto event. get familiar, once again, withSwitzerland and where its expertiselies,wenowlet plannersdothetalking. afew Let the People Talk count onstableguidance inthebudgetphase. overall planningfortheorganizerwho can price if you like. This approach facilitates the indicative price range, a standardconvention as high, they are in fact part of a logic of an VAT. Iftheratesofhotels areoftenperceived tant toraisethecompetitive rateofSwiss for the pricey image of Switzerland it is impor- plane youcan walktothecongress centre? As Who can boast saying: when you get off your AND COMPETITIVENESS COMPACTNESSABOUT SWITZERLAND’S Dr. Martin Wernli of Aarau Cantonal Hospital. ment ofblooddiseasesandcancer. research results and challenges in the treat- in Switzerland that it’s easy to discuss current in haematology and medical oncology based on a regular basis. There are so many experts and Medical Oncology is held in the country German and Swiss Societies of Haematology important thattheAnnualConference ofthe For Switzerlandasaresearch location, itis SWITZERLAND ABOUT THEKNOWLEDGE IN Traumatology of National Associations of Orthopaedics and Adrian Ott, CEO of the European Federation Switzerland [email protected] \www.MySwitzerland.com/meetings More information: Verbatim RémiDévé Dermatology) Dermatology &European College of Veterinary Conference (European of Society Veterinary Dr. Luc Beco, Coordinator of the ESVD-ECVD Lausanne, which provedtobeverysuccessful. – we ended up organizingour conference in needs and then we shorlisted four destinations I told them all my constraints, they analyzed my be said, exceptionally dynamic andkindpeople. the stand of Switzerland and I met with, it must EIBTM fair in Barcelona, I still showed up on of opposition internally. During a visit to the but financially unaffordable. There was a lot song byJacques Brel.It is a charming country, Unreachable Star’toparaphraseTheQuest,a At firstglance, Switzerlandis alittle‘The FRIENDLINESSABOUT SWITZERLAND’S Rieke Zantinge, Director, Inspirators Factory well foreventsofallformatsandsizes. There is definitelyaSwissconcept that works and theAlpineresort townofSanktMoritz. ered, among which Basel, Zürich, Pontresina are a lot of pearls in Switzerland to be discov- possible areas proactively and effectively. There professionalism andexpertise inhandling all I ammostimpressedbySwitzerlandteam's KNOW-HOWABOUT SWITZERLAND’S DESTINATIONS \SWITZERLAND
49 \ FEBRUARY 2019 A DETAIL OF THE MARS, TORONTO
Canada’s Calling ICT Hubs Extend from Coast to Coast
Silicon Valley is looking north for its latest recruits. According to The Wall Street Journal,
50 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 50 the University of Waterloo in Ontario, Canada is “Silicon Valley’s latest hunting ground.” No surprise since the University of Waterloo is ranked one of the world’s top computer science and math educational institutions — and for the past quarter of a century has been rated Canada’s most innovative university. Canada’s thriving Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) sector is a key driver of the country’s economy, with 39,000 companies generating $181 billion in annual revenue.
Words Lane Nieset for an event. When the leader organizer came for an event. When the leader organizer came was looking for a destination in North America About sixmonthsago,theWorldSummit AI purpose inCanada.” and meetwith industry membership, exchange best practices their to subject matter experts to recruit new talent, grow tions, coordinate B2Bexchanges, andgainaccess organizers canconduct content-related site inspec- leaders and academia, conference industry, thought ference agendas andprograms. Byconnecting with can augment contors and - a knowledge base that modations: infrastructure likemeetingspace andaccom- nations, as opposed to looking solely at tourism in aligningICTeventswithICT-strongdesti- As De Visscher points out, there’s more power Business EventsCanada. Business Development, Economic Sectors, explains Virginie De Visscher, Director of events,” fortheir “WhyCanada?” question ing the important context, answermeeting planners with - while providingstrengths, decision-makers and economic showcases Canada’s ness Events Canada excels, such as ICT, Busi- sectors in which Canada incentive travel programs. By aligning the with conventions,international corporate meetings and has always “Canada been an alluring choice for POWER INCOLLABORATION impact generationstocome. ties with tourism” “beyond benefits that will long-lasting legacies also leave on communi- the moment they’re happening,they can have the chance to witness breakthroughs Conferences convening in Canada not only “We offeraccess toCanadian innova- A DEEP DIVE INTO CANADA AS AKNOWLEDGE HUB
the major multinational ICT companies the majormultinationalICTcompanies Microsoft, IBM andAmazon arejustthreeof in AI and digital technology across the globe. that have contributed to major advancements leading towirelessandsatellitebreakthroughs has helped“fueladriveforcloser connection,” tic and the Arctic. It’s this vast landscape that rounded bythreeoceans: thePacific, theAtlan- of the United Kingdom, and so large, it’s sur- on scale, thecountry is about40timesthesize invention of the telephone. For a perspective goes as far back as Alexander Graham Bell’s Canada’s nickname “ANationofInnovators” NATION OF INNOVATORS global trade andinvestment.” as economic and innovation accelerators, fostering ference infrastructure, weposition ourdestinations aligning keyeconomic drivers, academia andcon- ness events driveeconomies andinnovation. By business events,” De Visscher says. through provide aplatformfordiscussion andinnovation IoT,we in AI,robotics, autonomous vehicles orthe such as ICTstrengths “By showcasing Canada’s mits, from2019to2021. result: Montrealwillhostthenextthreesum- the NorthAmerica WorldSummitAI. The why the country would be a great location for Hinton in Toronto came together to showcase Montréal anddeeplearningspecialist Geoffrey Professor Yoshua Bengioatthe Universityof Teams of the leaders in machine learning like with accelerators andincubators ofstartups. toured research institutions, and linked up ing spaces, theymetwiththe AI community, to Canada, instead of visiting hotels and meet- DESTINATIONS \CANADA “Busi -
51 \ FEBRUARY 2019 KING STREET IN UPTOWN WATERLOO
operating in Canada, a country that exports 80 provide new opportunities for these locally North America and features the second-high- percent of its ICT-manufactured products. grown companies. est density of startups on the continent. According to De Visscher, regions across Québec City, meanwhile, has emerged as a
52 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 52 The Toronto-Waterloo Corridor is North Canada are getting increasingly “networked,” global leader in optics-photonics, thanks to America’s second-largest technology clus- spreading the innovation of startups and scale- Canada’s largest national defence research cen- ter, home to 15,000 tech companies and over ups thanks to the Canadian Accelerator and tre: DRDC’s Valcartier Research Centre. The 200,000 tech workers. Waterloo also claims Incubator Program and Canada’s Centre’s of National Optics Institute has also inspired over Canada’s first Google for Entrepreneurs tech- “At Excellence and Strategic Innovation Fund. 30 spinoffs alone thanks to its cutting-edge nology hub, Canada’s leading Internet of a macro level, the framework is to use small inno- work, which includes designing 3D cameras Things cluster, and is home to software leaders vative startups to fill demonstrated needs of Cana- for the International Space Station. like BlackBerry and D2L. Another one of the dian business and government, and then link these city’s successful products: Clearpath Robotics, a firms into broader, shared networks to help scale,” ICT POWERHOUSE fleet of mobile robotic platforms designed by a she says. In a survey of 25 cities across Canada, Water- group of four friends who are graduates of the One great example is the Laziridis ScaleUp loo was recently ranked best place in the coun- University of Waterloo. Program, based out of Wilfrid Laurier Uni- try to start a tech company. Waterloo —which versity in Waterloo. Focused on solving a spe- has acted as the country’s hub of innovation Last year, the region held the inaugural True cific national challenge — the need for more for 150 years — is a city of superlatives, with North conference, attracting over 2,000 dele- globally competitive companies in Canada — the University of Waterloo boasting the larg- gates and 56 speakers to the two-day event cen- the program works with 10 up-and-coming est concentration of math and computer sci- tering around the future of tech. This year, that tech companies each year. The cohort, called ence talent in the world, as well as the no. 1 number is estimated to jump, bringing 2,500 the Lazarisis10, is partnered with mentors engineering program in Canada. It’s also the of the “brightest, boldest, carbon-based badasses to and experts from around the world who can second-fastest growing tech talent market in Canada’s hottest tech community.” home to the IBM Innovation Space and the home to the IBM Innovation Space and the America’s third-largest ICT hub. The city is Toronto isCanada’slargest city andNorth HUB OF COMMERCE October. tion (the largest of its kind in the country) in Canadian Wind Energy Conference & Exhibi- Index and secured events like the annual fourth on the Global Cleantech Innovation This industry leadership has placed Canada backbone forourfuture as acleantech hub.” forms a strong innovation in and around energy nologies Inc. try,” saysDr. TerryRock, CEO,CalgaryTech- indus energy gary's position as a global hub for the cleantech sector is a natural evolution from Cal- Mountain Parks. saur Provincial Park and the Canadian Rocky of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dino- and creative industries—allwithinadaytrip natural resources, clean energy,agriculture Canada’s energycapital, Calgary,isahubfor of its kindinCanada. in Kanata North Technology Park, the largest that comprise Ottawa’sAVcluster arelocated BlackBerry QNX, more than 45 of the firms da’s AV capital: Anchored by global AV leader a new research centre. The city is also Cana- which committed upto$337.9 milliontoward Ottawa isalsoattracting companies likeFord, (North America’s onlypurefabrication centre), the Canadian Photonics Fabrication Centre addition toincubatorsandresearch centreslike areas likedefence andsmartcity initiatives. In with cutting-edge, next-gen development in the most tech-intensive region in Canada, Ottawa is not only the nation’s capital, it’s also largest machine learning companies in Canada. concepts likeSightlineInnovation,oneofthe in computer science developingrevolutionary industry andthe161-plusacademic researchers delegates awealthofknowledgefromthelocal neurs andglobalcompanies. The city offers strength andpositive responsefromentrepre- In Canada’sheartland,Winnipegisshowing “Our decades of experience driving driving “Our decades ofexperience “Calgary's rapidly growing
- powerhouse.” Toronto region have made the a tech that companies tech industry, people and booming elevating the and innovation, like showcasing and technology erful catalyst for economic development for sectors nitude demonstrates howmeetings canbe apow- mag- destination can host. Hosting an event of this “Collision most coveted isconferences one of the a CEO ofTourismToronto,wasquoted saying: 20-23, 2019.JohanneBélanger,Presidentand Enercare Centre Exhibition Place, from May Collision will move its three-day event to and 2021. Forthefirsttimeoutside oftheU.S., Toronto wouldbethehostcity for2019,2020 Last May,the conference announced that the continent. lision, the fastest growing tech conference on has attracted theattentionofeventslikeCol- top-five convention city inNorthAmerica — capital. Thanks tothesefactors, Toronto—a of-the-line research facilities andearly-stage ing 6,000 people with access to advisors, top- connects networks and capital, while provid- sumer technology companies. The community of Canada’s most successful financial and con- — sits in the heart of the city and supports 150 of the world’s largest urban innovation hubs square-foot MaRS Discovery District — one cities inthe UnitedStates. The 1.5 million- boasts lowerbusiness costs thanthe31largest One ofthedriversthis growth:Toronto nity ofdata-drivenentrepreneurs. including OneEleven,anaccelerator commu- boasts 65 business incubators and accelerators, Bay Areacombined. Atthe moment,Toronto than NewYork CityandtheSanFrancisco ters. In 2017, the region added more tech jobs of 20finalistsforAmazon’ssecond headquar- was the onlyspotinCanadathatmadethe list isn’t impressive enough ofarésumé, Toronto that encrypts largevolumesofdata.Asifthis IBM Blockchain GlobalDataCentre,asystem said Jean-François Gagné, Co-founder tréal,” said Jean-François Gagné, Co-founder of strategic importance to keep your eye on Mon- “For anyone who wants to do serious AI, it will be TOP TALENT have repercussions country.” alloverthe traditionalwhat the tourism metrics are and will economic impact ofsuch aneventgoes far beyond willhaveseen. Thepotential social and what they consider local AIcommunityafter investing intothe way,” De Visscher says. impact ofassociation andcorporate meetings in that truly is — it is a huge feat to start measuring the impact and legacy starting to measure what that Andweareactually& investment opportunities. lyst leads toinnovation, talent attraction, that trade “We cata- see meetings andbusiness eventsas the and findactionable outcomes. conferencing platforms toidentifykeypoints language AI assistant that interacts with inline imaging. Onesuccess story:Hendrix,anatural ics, human-machine interaction andmedical North America andexcels inAI, bioinformat- one of thetopfivewireless research groups in In Edmonton, the University of Alberta boasts game developedinCanada. launching Fated in 2017, the first fully VR like Mattel)isoneofthe country’s risingstars, studio Frima(knownforworkwithtech giants the city’s tech landscape, while independent and Gearbox Software have staked a claim in the realm of gaming. Companies like Ubisoft Québec City, meanwhile, is gaining ground in used Hexoskin SmartShirt tech wearables). events (athletes in the Rio 2016 Olympics have already garnered attention from major biometric clothing andwearabletechnology, Startups like Hexoskin,which specializes in Montréal. McGill University and the Université de Canada, with 250researchers dividedbetween largest number of university researchers in and CEO, Element AI. Montréal features the www.businesseventscanada.ca [email protected] \ More information DESTINATIONS \CANADA “Global companies might might “Global companies
53 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Calgary A City Powering Into the Future
Nestled in the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains, in the heart of Alberta, the cosmopolitan city of Calgary was once known as the cowboy capital of Canada. Nowadays, it enjoys global recognition for its innovations within the energy sector as well as boasting established clusters in agribusiness and transportation and logistics, along with emerging clusters in the creative, life sciences, financial services and tourism industries.
Words Chantelle Dietz 54 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 54 growth. The largest, accounting for 4,420 growth. The largest,accounting for4,420 it believeswillprovideafoundation forfuture Calgary hasidentifiedfouremerging clusters agribusiness, transport and logistics sectors, In additiontoitsstronghold within theenergy, EMERGING CLUSTERS the 19 tion, logistics andagribusiness datesback to The city's heritage as a centre for transporta- driving change withintheindustry. version Research Group are leading the way in Calgary Advanced EnergyStorageandCon- Centre forAdvanced SolarMaterialsandthe tutes including The UniversityofCalgary’s tributors. Several world-class research insti- and clean technology arefast-growing con- uted to conventional energy, but renewables Almost one-third of Calgary’s GDP is attrib- conferences. both natural resources and renewable energy power, making it a sought-after host city for duction are covered, from petroleum to wind technology industry. Allaspects ofenergypro- ever-expanding renewable energy and clean well as multiple organisations servicing the major oil and gas headquarters in Canada, as Calgary's bustling downtown is home to every city in2022. its International WinterRoad Congressinthe The WorldRoad Association PIARC willhost drive futuregrowthinwithinthesesectors. omous mobile systems that are expected to for development of technologies for auton- As aresult, Calgaryisbecoming aglobalhub work with theindustrytodriveinnovation. tute of Technology and nearby Olds College Institutions likethe SouthernAlbertaInsti- and leading multinational agricultural firms. 5,000 transportation and logistics businesses th century. The region is home to around century. The regionishome toaround Police Conference (2018). and the International Association ofWomen Play Association Triennial Conference (2017), The 19 University ofCalgaryand Foothills Hospital. strong research infrastructure both at The has alsobeensingledout,thanks tothecity's and TV, digital media, and music. Life sciences ering a broad range of businesses from film businesses, isthecreative industrysector, cov- LOCAL CHAMPIONS include ISPCAN(2016),the 20 Calgary’s variouskeyindustries. Recent wins are morethan80ambassadorsrepresenting itors, sponsors andresearch groups. There sations andanetworkoflocal speakers, exhib- provide a link between international organi- ambassadors, knownasCalgaryChampions, build onthelegacyimpact ofitsevents. These ambassadors toattract moreconferences and collaborating withlocal industryandacademic ings +Conventions Calgary(MCC)has been Since 2013 the city’s convention bureau Meet- billion intourism spendingin2017. cluster. Seven million visitors generated $1.6 the quality of place, as well as being an industry arts and culture meaning it contributes both to industries, including retail, transportation, cluster ontheotherhand cuts across several banks haveapresence inthecity. The tourism the world’s majorinvestmentandcommercial the Global Financial Centres Index. Most of financial centres in 2012 when it made it into tum since joiningtheranks oftheworld’s top cial hubhasbeensteadilygatheringmomen- of attention. Calgary's reputationasafinan- Finance and tourism are the two other areas the city in2022. ric Nephrology Association willtakeplace in th Congress of the International Pediat- th International International ” heproudlyproclaims. friends, visitors come to Calgary as strangers, but leave as and it infuses events we host here. I often say that visitors toourcommunity.This spirit is infectious, are eager to help, and love to welcome new things, we havein Calgary.Peoplehere arewilling totry communityspirit Just as important, however, is the we have a world class locationRockies, to offer. “ tality that make it such a stand-out destination. gary's naturalbeautyand warm western hospi- But above all else, Sieppert believes it is Cal- visitors.” content perspective andamemorable for experience in making conferences outstanding both from a assistgary has event to offer planners in ways that respective disciplines. We can translate what Cal- “ eventplanningprocess efits tothe coup. “CalgaryChampions bringanumberofben- Social WorkConference beinghis mostrecent several events forthe city, the2020World 2015. In four years he has successfully secured of Calgary, became a Calgary Champion in the Faculty of Social Work at the University Jackie Sieppert,ProfessorandDeanwithin a truly successful adventure.” CityofCalgaryandIPACanada ship betweenthe partner- made this around play that ple together abilityplanning. It was this to bring excellent peo- conference step upandchairvarious aspects ofthe individuals city identified who would first day the (IPA), pays testament to the scheme: “From the branch ofthe International PlayAssociation Pierre Harrison, president of the Canadian With Calgary as the doorway to the Canadian tothe doorway Calgaryas the With Foremost is ourpassion andknowledgeaboutour www.meetingscalgary.com [email protected] \ Contact DESTINATIONS \CALGARY ,” he explains. ,” he explains.
55 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Ottawa Canada's Test Track for AV Innovation
Ottawa isn’t afraid to take trials out of the lab and on to a real-life test ground. Canada’s capital became the country’s first city to test on-street autonomous vehicles (AV) back in 2017, advancing testing on active public streets on a spin through Kanata North Technology Park. Imagine the look on the faces of people passing by when the driverless car came to a halt at a traffic light, allowing pedestrians to cross the street. The smart city is receiving the same reaction from industry leaders across the world as it showcases home-grown connected car and AV technologies, applications and services on the global market. 2019 Words Lane Nieset FEBRUARY 56 \
PARLIAMENT HILL OTTAWA RIVER THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION ©GRÉGOIRE-DENICOURT test andcommercialize AVtechnologies.” these capability toourecosystem, enabling innovators to world. This new testbed adds critical around the can beintegrated intoglobal supply chains and sold (V2X)solutions.to everything These technologies to develop, commercialize, and adopt new vehicle expertise and capabilitiesregion required has the CEO, Invest Ottawa and Bayview Yards: According toMichael Tremblay,Presidentand and otherorganizationsworkinginthefield. da’s AVcapital—home toover70companies of the development taking place in Cana- Innovation Centre (AVIC), is one example mous vehicles) and its AutonomousVehicle as thefoundationforconnected andautono- oper ofmission-critical softwarethat serves expertise of BlackBerry QNX (a leading devel- The AVtestingonOntario’sroads, ledbythe INNOVATION CENTRE development, testing andvalidation.” investment and global opportunity in CAV ities, early city’s capabil- on, andcommitted tobuildthe government andnon-profits, established avision of leading post-secondary companies, institutions, Invest Ottawa. President of Marketing and Communications, explainsSonyaShorey,Vice CAV technology,” coreof make upthe that in fields nized strengths decades of internationally-recoga tech hub with - LIDARS, key components of CAVs. (CAV) cluster become a leader in sensors and the city’s connected andautonomous vehicles cations research, resources that havehelped hardware vendors and 90% of telecommuni- and Ericsson), the top 10 optical network haul equipment market vendors (think Nokia Ottawa ishometothetopfivemobileback- autonomous vehicles. initiatives, communications technology, and next generationnetworksand5G,smart city where elseinCanadaandexcels intheareasof The city boasts morePhDspercapita thanany- most technology-intensive region in Canada. American and European cities, Ottawa is the direct connections toover30majorNorth with an international airport offering daily hyperbole. Located in theprovinceofOntario, Calling OttawaCanada’ssmartest city isn’t “Ottawa’s CAV cluster, comprised “Ottawa’s CAVcluster, comprised “Ottawa is “Ottawa is “Our “Our interests from international firms in leveraginginterests from international Shorey explains. Invest Ottawahas seen“keen way in which we live world,” and work around the andinshifting the in driving economic growth during that period. a compound annual growth rate of 39.47% and increase to$556.67billionby2026,with vehicles will be worth $54.23 billion in 2019 predicts the global market for autonomous park. Portland-based Allied Market Research GDP in what is Canada’s largest technology nies thatcontribute$13billiontoCanada’s example, representsover500ICT compa - The Kanata North Business Association, for Carleton UniversityandAlgonquin College. tion toresearchers attheUniversityofOttawa, Kanata North Business Association, in addi- city’s economic developmentagency) andthe up withorganizationslikeInvest Ottawa(the ital, OttawaandBlackBerry QNXhave teamed To buildonitsreputationas Canada’sAVcap- ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ ¬ Fast Facts prise SaaSaccelerator, L-SPARK Location ofCanada’s first enter other QNX, Cisco, Ericsson,Nokiaand Home to Amazon, BlackBerry 77,000 employedinICT people more than68,000highskilled 1,750 companies that employ Math) Technology, Engineeringand 27,000 students inSTEM (Science, 1,200 faculty andmore than degree ary labour force holdsapost-second- Canada: 61percent ofOttawa’s Most educated workforce in Valley cities, surpassed onlybySilicon ment outof316NorthAmerican science andengineeringemploy- Second largest concentration of “CAV is playing a key role “CAV is playing akey role -
decision makers in CAV.” rations government and industry leaders and with ourexisting collabo- [partnerships] andstrengthen says. idation andimplementation ofCAVs,” Shorey make Ottawaatrueleader insafe testing, val- centre. up to$337.9 milliontowardanewresearch in Ottawa, with Ford Canada committing companies tojointhedevelopmentunderway This cutting-edge research isbeckoning other test environmentofitskindinNorthAmerica. Wi-Fi, 4G/LTEand5G—the firstfour-season public andprivatetesttracks equipped with everything (V2X)andothertechnologies on implementation of city into an AV playground, safely testing the works and Nokia—have also helped turn the BlackBerry QNX,Ericcson, JuniperNet- Ottawa L5’sindustrypartners—Aurrigo, ing autonomouscar hubonaroll.” announced inastorytitled“Ottawa’s burgeon- ican headquarters, which CBC/Radio-Canada Ottawa will be the locale for its North Amer- of driverlesspods, Aurrigo,announced that space. Lastyear,forexample,the U.K. maker secure Ottawa’sstatusasa leader intheAV North on Sept 9-10, 2019 have also helped and companies issettobehosted inKanata and internationalAVinnovators,researchers a highly anticipated event drawing national and therecently announced CAVCanada2019, events such asthe2017OttawaAVSummit try events like London Tech Week. Flagship in AVinternationallybyattendingindus- promotes Ottawa as a centre of excellence national attendance. Business Events Canada the hopethattheygarnernationalandinter- cluster tosupportorsponsor local eventsin Ottawa Tourism works with the local industry INDUSTRY CLUSTERS true four-season climate,” according toShorey. Ottawa’s CAVcapabilities inV2Xtesting andour www.ottawatourism.ca [email protected] \ More information “Through associations, we hope to form new “Our unique climate anddeepcapabilities “Our unique DESTINATIONS \OTTAWA CAVs withvehicle-to-
57 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Sarawak Wisdom of the TriBE
Redefine the impact of your business event; become part of the global tribe spirit formed in the region and reflected in the world. Sarawak’s most prominent campaign to date, ‘Redefining Global Tribes’, is moving from strength to strength in its third year of life as a united cultural identity forged by all business events communities in Malaysia shoots for a stronger and more diverse economy for the country.
Words Vicky Koffa
58 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 58 An emerging destination on the island of Borneo, Sarawak is as diverse of business events in achieving the state’s economic transformation as it gets; distinctive languages, culture and lifestyles from almost thirty towards the digital era. In fact, the government has already put in place quite different ethnic groups blend harmoniously together to create this several projects in order to approach its goal. Boosting internet connec- diverse yet closely united hospitable community. This is the region’s tivity throughout the state or launching Sarawak Pay, a one-stop mobile uniqueness and why the meetings industry globally became so inter- app payment channel for the public are a couple of practical examples in ested in the last decade, making the state a top destination choice for the name of this initiative. associations worldwide. The Sarawak Digital Roadmap, a government project launched early last This success did not come effortlessly. Harnessing the power of diver- year, which focuses on four key economic sectors – agriculture, tour- sity and unity, Sarawak Convention Bureau (SCB) set out on a mission ism, health and education – makes a first connection between business to bring together associations, private organizations and government events and digital transformation. Through the services of SCB, meet- bodies to ensure Malaysia’s economic growth and bolster Sarawak’s ings become the accelerator for change within these sectors, as a base vision to become a developed and high-income state by the year 2030. is set for personal contacts where business relationships yield progress. In the course of the Redefining Global Tribes campaign, SCB has Association conferences bring innovative research and new knowledge attracted over a hundred events to Sarawak; 822 since the bureau’s is exchanged raising experience for the local workforce. conception back in 2006. Striking examples, like the 13th World Islamic On a more specific note, the State Government and SCB is actively Economic Forum in 2017, echo the efforts for disruptive change. tapping into specific economic indicators set within the guidelines of Urban Development and Re-development, Environmental and Social ON THE ROAD TO A DIGITAL ECONOMY Development, Industrial Development, Agriculture, Service Industry Beyond the bureau’s efforts lies also the close cooperation and sup- and, of course, Digital Economy ensuring growth boost and impactful port from the State Government, which recognises the important role action. TRIBES CAMPAIGN REDEFINING GLOBAL THE FACE OF SCB’S
59 \ FEBRUARY 2019 DARUL HANA BRIDGE ON THE SARAWAK RIVER 60 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 60 FORGING POWERFUL ALLIANCES Amelia Roziman, COO of SCB highlights the importance of inter- “BESA collaborations are centred on a cohesive rela- This past year SCB hosted the inaugural Business Events Tribal Meet, sectoral connections: better known as TriBE 2018, in Kuching. It was attended by 300 hand- tionship with stakeholders in the industry, especially government agencies. But picked industry experts from national associations, sector partners, make no mistake - the local community is fundamental in growing Sarawak’s global and national media, and government officials. The conference economy through Business Events. What SCB is aiming for is a seamless inte- consisted of three elements: TriBE Xchange educational session which gration between the Bureau and Government agencies so that our local commu- featured six global speakers and renowned thought leaders, the launch of nity can gain from the presence of associations and delegates both socially and the dedicated Business Events Sarawak Alliance (BESA) platform as well economically.” as the commemorative flagship award for Business Events – the 9th Anak Sarawak Awards under TriBE Honour. TRIBE ASSEMBLY 2020
TriBE 2018 gave prominence to the launch of the dedicated government However, SCB’s ambitions keep pushing the limits of what business associate platform, BESA, which aims to bring government ministries events can offer. TriBE 2018 was but a preview for the upcoming TriBE and agencies in a collaborative relationship through business events. The Assembly 2020, a fully developed international conference pinpointing ambition is to advance the targeted sectors via new business connections, on the disruption of the business events industry and its lasting impact ground-breaking findings and best practices that business events are able on many sectors of the economy. Sanctioned by the Ministry of Tour- to provide. The goal is to create a more sustainable state and at the same ism, Arts, Culture, Youth and Sports Sarawak, the event year is a climax time develop in-depth knowledge and gain experience. The outcome is on the previous year’s drive on innovation and celebrates the uprising of that Sarawak reinforces its exemplar role for second- and third-tier des- leadership and identity among industry partners with expected extensive tinations in the region. opportunities for promotion and marketing. as specially-designed familiarization tripsareontherise. similar eventsareonthehorizonfor SCBtoequally elevateother sectors State’s urban,environmental,social andindustrialdevelopment. More moves aheadtobringaboutimpact beyondtourism andfurtherpush the ernment’s focus onagriculture asoneofthe 7keysectors asthe industry ers. Thetailor-madeAgri-Fam triptiesinclosely withtheStateGov- and BenefitSharing)–anexceptional stingless beefarmamong oth- the ConventiononBiological DiversityandtheNagoyaProtocol (Access – a first of its kind in Malaysia to enact a biodiversity law in line with The tourcontinued itswaytotheSarawakBiodiversityCentre(SBC) which could promptthe creation ofnewassociations. partnership and meetings between local ‘agropreneurs’ and experts or precision farming techniques and technology, public-private sector culture Sector Through Smart Farming’, ICAAS 2018 showcased smart opment Sarawak (MANRED). With the theme ‘Transforming the Agri- istry ofModernisationAgriculture, NativeLandandRegionalDevel- exporter of food by 2030 and underlined SCB’s commitment to the Min- The visit was well in tandem with Sarawak’s goal of becoming a net meetings inSarawak. media delvedintopotentialfuturepartnershipsforagricultural business made up of researchers, academics and invited national and international experts from Thailand, Indonesia and other Malaysian counterparts, cal toursaswellparticipation atthe ICAAS conference, 40like-minded During thefivedaysofexpedition,which included aseriesoftechni- an agriculture-based familiarizationtrip(Agri-Fam). promote the state’s agriculture and agro-based industry – SCB lined up Penview ConventionCentreDemak–aleadingagriculture festivalto Agriculture andAgro-basedIndustry Sarawak(ICAAS) 2018 heldatthe the frameworkofsecond editionoftheInternational Conference on SCB, have been put in action always targeting growth. Last autumn, in Under theBESAanumberofotherdynamic initiatives, setoffbythe SOWING THESEEDS OF UNITY years tocome!” readyforthe together as acomplexpuzzle beingpieced such as education,nities jobs andtrading ofproducts andservices. Imagine this will be abletobask inopportu- ple realize importanceofbusiness events, they the wouldhopefully2020 that leave atrail oflegacy behindforSarawak. When peo- cation institutions. We TriBE are gunning for a thought-provoking Assembly inclusion of our initiative to the liaisewith and exchange information edu- with community, business events can bring to the that to embrace opportunities the of choice – education. We will guide current industry players and future leaders TriBEprepare for the Assembly year’s weapon Bureau has chosen this 2020, the Assembly 2020 which will leave an imprint on Sarawak. She says: Amelia Roziman andher teamaregettingreadyforastimulatingTriBE “To “To magnified impact ofsuch eventstothe conservation ofprimates. findings through worldwide publications and conferences thus creating Malaysia andIndonesia. The conference willalsofacilitate spreadingits will examinethebiological andecological studies onprimatesaround tional delegates to Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) who held forthefirsttimeinMalaysia is expected toattract 1,000interna- The International Primatological Society (IPS) 2022 Congress, set to be and itsenvironment,the powerofbusiness events isevident once again. betterment of thepeople while preserving their indigenous way of life Enhancing initiatives which focus on studying the local lifestyle for the tions forthe lifeinBariothroughbiotechnology andtourism. health andcultural services forthepeopleandoverallsustainablesolu- to deep-rootedimpact fortheenvironmentofregion,appropriate shakes’ Bario. Knowledge sharing and anthropological research will lead awak’s Convention Ambassadors to ‘The Land of a Thousand Hand- UM tojoinitsprogram–Redefining GlobalTribes:Honouring Sar- on the Kelabit Highlands inSarawak, it invited four researchers from years ofacquired expertiseonthe peopleofBario,acommunity located SCB and the University of Malaya (UM). Building on the university’s Another testimony of BESA’s sway is the collaboration formed between SOCIAL &ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS with evengreaterplans in.” with as 2020looms such unity to ensure Sarawak successful year, that 2019, requiring sees another for has plenty of promising events and activities people. SCB change for the sector considering every business event brings inaslice that ofimpactand public in the and private community, but also agencies support of not just the trust and fruitfulpartnerships togarner the aim instaying relevant through Roziman remains engagedwhenitcomes tothefuture:“TheBureautakes awak’s ticket tothefuture. business opportunities,reflecting thefact thatbusiness eventsareSar- over to visit the shores of Malaysia, share information and explore new (ACE) Conference 2016,buildaplatformforinvestors from the world Again, internationalmeetings,liketheASEAN-ChinaEntrepreneurs’ ridors, set upin2006totriggerinvestment-drivengrowth. ble Energy (SCORE) is one of the country’s economic development cor- livestock, oil and gas and solarglass. The Sarawak Corridor of Renewa- ber-based, aluminium, steel and ferroalloy, marineengineering,tourism, trial development, mainly in areas like palm oil-based, aquaculture, tim- Planted atthetopof list ofprioritiesforthegovernmentliesindus- INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION [email protected] /www.businesseventssarawak.com Contact DESTINATIONS \ SARAWAK
61 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Renewing Urban Life in Seoul
A metropolis with a population of more than 10 million people, South Korea’s capital definitely has character, offering contrasting landscapes that combine traditional and contemporary styles, including its more than 600-year-old historic districts and 25 self-governing boroughs. From the 1950 to the early 2000s, Seoul enjoyed industrialization and rapid growth, which led to a rapid population increase and large-scale expansion of the city. Now it seems Seoul is experiencing its next phase of development, with major urban regeneration projects to be found all over the city… and which association planners will be eager to discover.
Words Rémi Dévé 2019 FEBRUARY 62 \
THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATIONOIL TANK CULTURE PARK offered by artists from various fields, architects, and designers. offered byartists fromvariousfields, architects, anddesigners. performances, takecooking classes, andparticipate increative workshops Village islikeaglance atthecity’s gloriouspast,wherevisitorscan see Maybe one of Seoul’s most fascinating urban regeneration projects, the improved hanoks–the well-knownKoreanhouses–inthe1950s. Dynasty era, wooden houses built during the Japanese occupation, and architecture overtheyears,showcasing traditionalalleysoftheJoseon the Donuimun Museum Village is all about the transformation of Korean Featured during the Seoul Biennale of Architecture and Urbanism 2017, recreation indowntownSeoul. cessfully transformed the whole district into a place of relaxation and a populartourist destination in the Republic of Korea,but it also suc It not just revived the downtown area into a vibrant fashion hub and most successful project ever attempted urban development in the city. value with a distinctively neo-futuristic design, it is also seen as the standing out as of a Seoul. major landmark Aside from its aesthetic The Design Dongdaemun Plaza might well be the epitome of this, SUCCESSFUL PROJECTS totally rejuvenatedpast. accumulated overtime,whilevisitorscan discover anot-so-distantbut local communities areabletopreservethecherished memories they have ying scales are being carried out at dozens of locations across the city, and focus of Seoul’s urban policy. Today, urban regeneration projects of var- inclusive andlivable,“regeneration”has indeedbeguntofeatureasamain As authorities and urban planners look towards making the city more a recent interview. renewal,” SeoulMayor Park Won-soonrecently told The Korea Heraldin regional development plans physical regeneration through (of decayed areas) and Now, we need to switchin preparing to new for housing and population growth. development andexpansion past, Seoul focused on quantitative lenges. “In the rapid developments of 21st-century life. But this has come with chal- capital isaplace wherethecountry’s heritages blendseamlessly withthe and many fascinating palaces. Now a global megacity, South Korea’s tors for some time now, with its well-preserved national monuments A thrivingcultural centre, Seoulhasbeenattracting international visi- - flexible space forsmallconferences. Baesan, aformerwarehouse, has beenrepurposedintoanindustrial-style, an exclusive venue for your event, look no further. Situated downtown, ous events initssix tanks:it’sreallyone-of-a-kind,andshould youneed property iscomposed of22soccer field-sizedspaces that canhostvari- formances, exhibitions and village markets since September 2017. The environmentally friendly cultural event complex featuring festivals, per- former emergency oilreservebuiltinthelate1970stransformedintoan Other regeneration projects include Seoul's Oil Tank Culture Park, a scene.” international cutting-edge on the Seoulentertainment venues,has amongbecome quite others, urbanrenewalvenues, hotels, and has close to300members including unique Seoul MICEAlliance (SMA), apublic-private coalition industry which forthe the competitiveness ofSeoul's MICEindustry.” He adds: “ And with ening the diversity city's MICEofferings it also“represents the ofthe for meetings. This is not only testament to Seoul’s urban dynamism but urban regenerationeffortshavemadeahost ofuniquevenuesavailable division of the Seoul Tourism Organization, explains that the city’s Jin-Hyeok Park, director of the Seoul Convention Bureau, the MICE office towers, aquarium… and even a city airport terminal. office towers,aquarium… and evenacity airportterminal. site, one of Asia’s largest underground shopping malls, four international one roof’concept makesthe mostsense: there are three 5-starhotelson bition hallsand55dividablemeeting rooms. Herethe‘everythingunder years of experience. The facility is huge and comprises of 4 main exhi- heart of Gangnam, Seoul’s business district, Coex boasts more than 30 vention and exhibition centre. Established in 1979 and located in the And ofcourse thereisCoex,yourstraight-forward, purpose-built con- conferences. the other side of the town, now serves as a public venue for high-profile venue forreceiving VIPs andvisitingheadsofstate,YeongBin Gwan,on sitting still betweentradition and modernity. Established in 1967 as a the North-South Red Cross Conference in 1972 and all built as hanoks, tive ofKoreanculture. Itsstylishbuildingswereinitiallycreated tohost standing proud at the top of a hill and a unique event space representa- More traditionalvenuesinclude Samcheonggak, amountainretreat MORE TRADITIONAL DESTINATIONS \SEOUL - ” while“strength
63 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Right across Coex sits Bongeunsa Temple, where 3,479 Buddhist scrip- tures of 13 types, including the works of Kim Jeong-hee, are stored. Dating back to 794, the highlight of the temple is a 28-metre statue of Case Study Maitreya, the Future Buddha, one of the tallest stone statues in the coun- th try. Today, the temple can provide a pleasant, interesting, and peace- 7 UNWTO Global ful retreat after a hard day at a conference. If it was, before the 1960s, surrounded only by farms and orchards, the area has become the centre Summit on Urban of one of the wealthiest and busiest places in Seoul making Bongeunsa Temple a rather interesting mix of traditional and modern Seoul. Tourism
The trip I took last September provided a peak to some More information: th [email protected] / www.miceseoul.com sessions of the 7 UNWTO Global Summit on Urban Tourism, themed ‘A 2030 Vision for Urban Tourism’. The event was hosted by the Seoul Metropolitan Government and supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of the Republic of Korea, the Korea Tourism Organization and the Seoul Tourism Organization.
It provided a unique platform to discuss the key issues shaping the future of urban tourism in the context of the 2030 Urban Agenda, and brought together high-level
64 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 64 representatives from National Tourism Administrations, city authorities and related stakeholders, serving as a platform to exchange experiences and expertise and set a shared vision on urban tourism.
Discussions of the Summit unfolded on a high-profile panel and four themed debate sessions to touch on key topics concerning this rapidly-growing tourism segment and set a vision to fulfill United Nation’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Among the subjects touched upon were the impact of digital technologies in shaping the future of urban destinations, the role of urban tourism in transforming cities landscape through the rejuvenation of public space, along with how to ensure residents are an integral part of urban tourism development – a theme that was particularly relevant to the participants of our press trip. A UNWTO report named ‘Overtourism? Understanding and managing urban tourism growth beyond perceptions’ was also presented at the event.
DONGDAEMUN DESIGN PLAZA Lisbon & Porto The Art of Urban Regeneration
The bar is set quite high when visiting the south of Europe; long periods of sunshine throughout the year, genuine hospitality and endless history jumping out of monuments, buildings and traditional dishes. And Portugal does not disappoint. Association delegates get the best the country has to offer - not only in terms of leisure but also in terms of facilities and organisation - when visiting two of Portugal’s biggest cities, Lisbon and Porto.
Words Vicky Koffa
A WAKE-UP CALL FOR THE CAPITAL a few minutes from the centre – has received PAVILHÃO CARLOS LOPES, touch-ups to match the city’s upsurge. 2019 The long years of recession in the Eurozone LISBON had quite an impact on the country, but Lis- Alexandra Baltazar, Coordinator and Manager bon’s tourism sector has seen a solid growth. of the Lisbon Convention Bureau, shares her In recent years, the city has strengthened its passion about the project: “Lisbon is seeing the position as a business destination for major consolidation of the urban regeneration in conse- FEBRUARY international events mostly thanks to the quence of the investment being done especially in heavy investment for urban regeneration it the last ten years. Historic buildings are being ren- 65 \ underwent. Beautiful samples of architecture ovated, traditional 18th-century façades being kept, that were once unused are now fully reno- tiles salvaged, traditional materials used for ven- vated with state-of-the-art technology while ues, giving them a new light/design/use for events keeping their traditional character. purposes. Our ‘new’ riverfront is now creating a Pátio da Galé, with its impressive pillars, inau- path keeping in mind the 1,000 years of history, gurated in 2011, the place where the Royal culture and tolerance.” Palace and the India House were located, However, the vision of changing the way serves now as a meetings venue in the centre people live in the city did not only include of the city; Pavilhão Carlos Lopes, functioning since last year in the heart of green Parque renovations. The city decided to undertake a Eduardo VII, used to be an Expo Palace back counter-cyclical investment programme in the in the day brought to Lisbon from Brazil by coming years (2016-2020) which includes the boat, now offering vast conference spaces sur- rehabilitation of urban roads and innovative rounded by decorated walls in white and blue urban mobility solutions such as urban lift and tiles, typical of Portuguese art. Meanwhile, the escalators in pedestrian city circuits, a funicular old army factory has been turned into the new railway, bike sharing, eCar and an ICT smart Hub Criativo Beato on the east side of the city mobility platform. Smart City innovations to house national and international entities in such as license plate recognition systems and the areas of technology, innovation and crea- car access control systems in historical neigh- tive industries. Even more modern buildings, bourhoods are set to make the city as dynamic such as Lisbon’s Congress Centre (CCL) - just and competitive as other major capitals.
DESTINATIONS \ PORTUGAL PORTO
START-UP FRIENDLY PORTO attributes, as they are essential to the urban qual- WHERE HISTORY AND TECHNOLOGY MEET Heading up north towards the city that gave ity of life. They are also one way of making the the name to the famous wine and the coun- city known to the world. Porto is in fact an open The boom in the northern region of the coun- try, Porto paints the same picture of revival. city with a vibrant cultural life, a resurgent entre- try has definitely expanded past the city limits Porto is a 2,000-year-old city, one of the eldest preneurial scene, a world-class university, and a of Porto. With 2,000 years of history, Braga in Europe, recognized as world heritage site by unique city centre which carries diversity in its is the third-largest city in Portugal, boast- the UNESCO since 1996. Over the two centu- genes. This unusual combination initiated a set ing high-quality universities and start-ups. 66 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 66 ries its citizens have developed a unique capac- of unique projects for the city, aiming to make The Minho University promotes research ity of resilience which allowed them to always Porto a port of talent and skills for the 21st-century groups of excellence in information technol- answer the most demanding challenges with economy.” ogies, advanced materials and manufacturing, innovative solutions. health sciences and regenerative medicine and The economy’s evolution inevitably attracted physics, whereas the International Iberian Over the past few years the city’s economic the business world to Porto and investments in Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL) is an Inter- profile has been evolving with a focus towards renovating historic facilities to meet the busi- governmental Organization created to foster a knowledge-based economy. In fact, Porto ness events needs started pouring in. The old interdisciplinary research in Nanotechnology has been considered Best Start-up Friendly Customs House, located by the river Douro, and Nanoscience. Investment and knowledge City of Europe by World Excellence Award was transformed to Alfândega Porto Congress led to the creation of the multi-functional 2018. The remodelling of a former slaughter- Centre, covering the need for a venue where Altice Forum Braga, a brand-new convention house as a blend of cultural and business centre large scale conferences can be held. There is and exhibition centre living up to the high known as the Matadouro project, or the Porto also the unique Palácio da Bolsa, with a mix of quality standards of the city. Innovation District whose aim is to create an architectural styles, a palace in its own right, ecosystem of work, study, live and research are now used as a cultural and conference centre. both indications of Porto’s successful attempts. To complete the picture, the city’s accessibility Ricardo Valente, President of Associação de by plane (from Porto’s award-winning air- Contact Turismo do Porto, Convention and Visitors port 15 minutes away from the city centre), Lisbon: [email protected] \ Bureau, explains: “Currently Porto’s reputation boat, car or even train is constantly improv- www.visitlisboa.com as an innovative city is primarily due to its cul- ing, so that Porto becomes an easy choice for Porto: [email protected] \ portocvb.com tural features which are as much differentiating associations. CMY CY MY CM K Y M C AF_Anuncio_WTA_210x250mm.pdf 104/01/201912:12:12
67 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Kigali Building on Solid Ground
Imagine a place where strong African culture meets modern urban life, where years of troubled history gave way to cosmopolitan regeneration and where millions of inhabitants strive to upkeep one of the cleanest and safest cities in the world; add a pioneering convention centre like the Kigali Convention Centre (KCC); and all that surrounded and protected by green hillsides. That is Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, the ‘land of a thousand hills’, located in the central-east part of Africa.
Words Vicky Koffa
Years of government and private investing, aided by the people’s ‘Umu- such as the Africa Green Revolution Forum (AGRF) and the Transform ganda’ community-oriented spirit, have produced a secure, spotless envi- Africa Summit just this past year portraying the city’s ability to receive ronment with an upcoming economy in sectors like tourism, services, such heavyweight events.
68 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 68 mining and agriculture. The city’s spike-like road network provides good Conferences of this calibre could only be held at pioneering facilities connections to the rest of the country whereas local public transportation such as the Kigali Convention Centre (KCC), the country’s biggest and is modernising and runs smoothly. newest events venue, located in the heart of Kigali, five kilometres in Infrastructure development is evident throughout the city with facilities proximity to the bustling city centre but as well Kigali International covering all types of events. New hotels pop out at constant pace with Airport. Officially launched in July 2016, KCC has definitely made an plans of big chains investing in the city, summing up actually to more than impact on the city, both aesthetically and financially. Its dome-shape 2,600 hotel rooms. The Central Business District, in particular, is home to exterior, resembling a traditional Rwandan King’s palace, attracts numerous hotels ranging all prices and categories. As accommodation is attention as much on the outside with its light show as on the inside expanding, so is international connectivity; due for completion in 2020, a with its functional spaces. Eighteen different venues and an auditorium new airport will network the country further with the world. of 2,600 attendee’s capacity are what makes this centre adept for any kind of conference. Nagen Naidu, KCC Director of Convention, com- A COMMITTED BUREAU, A MODERN CENTRE ments on the Centre’s work: “With the highest standards in East Africa, advanced technology and offers, KCC’s occupancy grows substantially every Established in 2014, the Rwanda Convention Bureau and its innovative year and 2019 follows this trend. leadership has been of fundamental importance in the promotion of Kigali as a meetings destination. Its services go beyond mere publicity for The Director mentions their efforts to find the right fit when it comes the city; it provides guidance and personalised solutions for the unique to associations: “We are very active in terms of research and development needs of associations, such as engaging with government and private sec- and we work hand in hand with ICCA, the Rwanda Convention Bureau tor specialists in supporting events. As a result, Kigali reached third place and local ministries in order to attract the most suitable association confer- in the ICCA 2017 Africa rankings and has proven to be a major player in ences for Kigali. Results have shown that medical, scientific and technology the business events industry over the past few years, with conferences conferences will advance both experience and development in these fields.” this year the 20 US and China, will be two important international events. In December many African, Asian and Europeancountries with plans to expand to the Flying tothecity’s nearbyairport,which offersdirect correspondence to UPCOMING MAJOR CONFERENCES MICEbusiness. constant” the of demand with growth gapbetweensupply planned hotels’ openings areexpectedtobridgethe the and supplyinternational demandgenerated has recognized the inpast years, and recentaddition challengewas accommodation; the coaches andtaxis. Another of tion, has also been given priority, making it more modern and comfortable with delegates. Tackling countryforinternational publicto andfromthe transporta- new airport more connectionsthe and bigger aircrafts are expected to ease access constructionnectivity is importantforacountrylike the Rwanda;andwith of which are actively beinghandledbythegovernment.Naidu says:“Aircon- As anemergingmarketinthis industry,Rwandafaces some challenges, setting carbon emission foralleventsatKCC. “We have implemented ‘responsible in allourmeetings, off- business’ strategy And he continues stressing out the importance of sustainable meetings: Organized by the Society for AIDS in Africa (SAA) and the Government Organized by the Society for AIDS in Africa (SAA) and the Government attendance reaching over 10,000delegatesfromnearly150countries. (ICASA) will be held at Kigali Convention Centre with expectations of CONVENTION CENTRE,KIGALI RADISSON BLU HOTEL & th International Conference on AIDS and STI’s in Africa International Conference on AIDS and STI’s in Africa
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of GovernmentMeeting(CHOGM).The26 Half ayearlater,inJune2020,KigaliwillhosttheCommonwealthHeads and patientsaliketomakefurthercollective effortstoendAIDS by2030. of Rwanda,theeventoffersaglobalopportunityforscientists, leaders change andthe commitment toupholdtheCommonwealth Charter. discussed at the summit include security, development challenges, climate in hotelsandthe newairportwonthe bidforthecountry. Issues tobe tion Centre, the expanded road network along with the city’s explosion and isexpected toattract approximately5,000delegates. KigaliConven- country that is not a former British colony or protectorate or the UK itself which currently comprises of54countries, willbethe first oneheldina [email protected] \www.kigalicc.com Contact: challenges, which are actively being As anemerging market inthis industry, Rwanda faces some handled by the government. DESTINATIONS \KIGALI th version of the meeting, versionofthemeeting,
69 \ FEBRUARY 2019 La Cité Nantes Congress Centre A Partner in Innovation
The eclecticism of its landscapes and architecture, its dynamic industries and the diversity of its cultural events – who hasn’t heard of the famous Machines de l’Ile and their giant elephant for instance? – along with its outstanding efforts in the area of sustainability, which made it the European Green Capital back in 2013, have regularly placed Nantes at the top of the best cities to live in. It’s also an excellent choice for association events looking for something different. Case in point: the European Conference of Oncology Pharmacy which took place at La Cité Nantes Congress Centre in October 2018.
Words Rémi Dévé 70 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 70
LA CITÉ NANTES CONGRESS CENTRE
Over just a few years, the fast-growing city on the French Atlantic coast The program aimed to equip oncology pharmacy practitioners with has transformed itself. What used to be another French second-tier city is knowledge about recent developments, advance the effectiveness of now a vibrant, booming destination full of energy, like a lively, open-air healthcare delivery and increase the quality of patient care. State-of-the- museum, a cultural hotspot full of history and driven by innovation and art advances in research, patient management and practice were show- knowledge. cased in keynote lectures, scientific symposia and poster sessions in two well-defined tracks: clinical and practical. FRESH APPROACH According to Wessel Nieuwenweg, Congress Consultant of the Euro- Testament to this is the hosting by La Cité of the 4th edition of the pean CanCer Organisation (ECCO), Nantes ticked all the logistic boxes European Conference of Oncology Pharmacy (ECOP4) in October to host ECOP4: a historical, innovative and attractive European city, it’s 2018. The event attracted multiple stakeholders, including oncology well connected to the world, and less than two hours from most Euro- pharmacists, hospital pharmacists, community pharmacists, medical pean capitals, either by train or plan, while plenty of affordable and quality oncologists, oncology physicians, pharmacy nurses and pharma indus- accommodation can be found in close proximity to La Cité. “All in all, it’s try by providing a multidisciplinary approach to promote the highest the full-service conference venue with suitable layout for our conference and their standards of pharmaceutical care in the management and support of excellent relationship with the French Society and all the local key players that patients with tumors. made the difference,” he says. project calls for a fully connected, high-tech hospital located at the heart project calls for a fully connected, high-tech hospital located at the heart de Nantesin2023-2026,creating newopportunitiesforthesector.The Already aleaderinthe field,Nantes HospitalwillbemovingtotheIle innovative SMEsandresearch institutions. presence ofkeyinfrastructure facilities, such asthe Arronaxcyclotron, cluster’ accreditation obtained by Atlanpole Biotherapies in 2005, and the its health and biotechnology research, supported by the ‘competitiveness and the life sciences fields. The Nantes Saint-Nazaire region is famous for eagerness for excellence to be found in Nantes, especially inthehealthcare The success of ECOP4 comes hardly as a surprise. There is definitely an DRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE city.” coming ofECOPtothe make Nantes’ stakeholders awareofthe promote Nantes as adestination toourdelegates and value andhelpedtoboth clearly visible city-widecoordinated efforttohost us. That was agreat added ference. We collaboration, the wereverypleased especially with interms ofthe Cité’s onsite con- the staff andhostesses was exceptional priorandthroughout “ wenweg comments. operationallywell, both and from a building’s functionality” Nieu- point of view, extremelyfusion. this caseThis and isI found not La alwaysCité managed the which was operated in parallel any interference, problem or con - to ours without congress taking wasplace, another extremely flexible. “During ECOP4 there La Citéseemedtohave beenaperfect fitforECOPandprovedtobe organizers anddelegates alike.and fresh approachtointernational ” tion. “That actually makes it moreinteresting,” he adds. “ It canprovide anew According toNieuwenweg,Nantesisalesserknownconference destina- ECOP4 was attendedbyover500delegates,” he adds. in Nantes, especially inthe healthcare The success of ECOP4 comes hardly eagerness forexcellence tobefound as asurprise.There is definitely an and the life sciences fields. ‘The support from the La La ‘The support fromthe laboratory andthepatient’sbed. and clinical practice in oncology, soastoensureacontinuum betweenthe a centre of excellence that connects basic research, translational research and ImmunologyNantes-Angers (CRCINA),whoseobjective is tocreate Papin) have partnered to create the Center for Research in Cancerology (Cancer CenterRenéGauducheau) andAngers(CancerCenter Paul of Nantes and Angers and the Institut du Cancer Ouest of St Herblain plantation research. Infact, theclinical teamsoftheUniversityHospitals Nantes UniversityHospitalis afrontrunnerincancerology andtrans set toopenin2020,isalreadyhomebiotechnology companies. Biotech building,adjoiningthenewHealth Research Institute, which is Nantes well on track to building the Hospital of the Future. The Nantes of auniversityhospitalcampus, with6,000studentsandfaculty, putting [email protected] \lacite-nantes.com More information DESTINATIONS \ NANTES -
71 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Expo Tel Aviv Meet in Israel’s Most Advanced Venue
Nested in the heart of sunny Israel, Tel Aviv is fast attracting the attention of associations worldwide as a distinctive business events destination, thanks to the efforts of Expo Tel Aviv International Convention Center, the Tel Aviv municipality and the Tel Aviv hotel association. Expo Tel Aviv is the largest and most advanced convention venue in Israel and gradually emerging as a venue of choice for conferences in a ‘non-stop city.’
Words Rémi Dévé
From being one of the largest economies of Meeting venues in Tel Aviv reflect this drive the Middle East to being the largest metro- for knowledge – an emerging conference politan area in Israel with a booming techno- Expo Tel Aviv destination that is fast gaining the spotlight logical knowledge center, Tel Aviv has flour- among associations, offering access to indoor ished over the last decades. Israel’s engine of Fast Facts and outdoor public spaces which can be used commerce and a hub for contemporary art and all year round due to the pleasant Mediterra- culture, the city enjoys about 365 days of sun a ¬ located in the city centre nean weather. And by targeting those asso- year, and boasts nearly nine miles of turquoise ¬ strong sustainable practices ciations that match up with local economic strengths, they create opportunities to access Mediterranean coastline. ¬ +/- 25,000 sqm of space spread key knowledge in the economy. over 8 pavilions 72 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 72 STARTUP NATION ¬ full fiber-optic infrastructure and MOST ADVANCED With the highest concentration per capita of an internet traffic capacity of 10G tech startups in the world, Tel Aviv has gained With a wealth of experience hosting con- ¬ Ben Gurion International Airport certs, exhibitions and stage performances of recognition in recent years as one of the (TLV) only 20 minutes away international magnitude, the 8 pavilions and world’s leading tech hubs. It is fed by numer- ¬ 5,700 monthly incoming flights to 20 meeting halls of Expo Tel Aviv are suitable ous venture capital firms, seed funds, and Tel Aviv for any type of event. The facility has 25,000 accelerators, co-working spaces, major inter- square meters of roofed exhibition grounds national hi-tech firms, and leading research ¬ large variety of accommodation in total, with the biggest pavilion hosting up and academic institutions. options at reasonable prices to 7,000 people. An additional 20,000 square ¬ about 10,500 available rooms Tel Aviv is the startup hub by excellence, meters of grass lawns is allocated for open spread over the city and companies like Waze, Mobileye, check display. Expo Tel Aviv boasts one of the most point, and ICQ are all Israeli In this context, advanced communication and broadcast lay- outs in Israel at the moment: all equipment the city regularly hosts various annual con- But Tel Aviv’s knowledge is not limited to its is backed up with full redundancy and can ferences, meet ups, and events dedicated to startup ecosystem. The city boasts 7 hospitals, connect to any communication and broad- technological innovations, including the DLD 4 universities and numerous international cast companies with full multi-line back-up Tel Aviv Conference, Forbes 30 Under 30, or research institutions, as well as good inter- Cybertech, the cyber industry’s foremost B2B national connectivity. Tel Aviv University is capabilities. networking platform conducting industry-re- Israel’s largest and most comprehensive uni- An upgrade of the venue plan is currently lated events all around the globe. versity, with a strong interdisciplinary focus. underway: as part of the renovation, Pavilion or the5 technologies, innovations and food processing, “It is ourplantobecomealeading attracts, venuethat Tamir Dayan, CEO of Expo Tel Aviv, explains: A HUBFOR CONFERENCES 20 include Agritech, which, last year, celebrated its Successful eventshosted atExpoTelAviv be inauguratedin2025withinthepremises. new conference halls. A business hotel will also construction ofanewbusiness loungeandthree No. 2,which wasopenedin2015,willseethe song contest inMay. Aviv was chosen to host the 2019 Eurovision 13,000 participants. Meanwhile, Expo Tel the alt-J concert which was attended by over most influentialannual art event in Israel, or tigious events, likeFresh Paint,thelargestand art and culture, it hosts its fair share of pres Judo Championship in April 2018. In terms of Expo TelAvivalso welcomed the European from thebusinesssector aroundtheworld. decision-makers both from the authorities and field, it brought together, in November 2018, case the most advanced Israeli solutions in the security. As a high-quality platform to show- reputation inthefieldofhomelandandcyber ference, an international event with a global th conference and exhibition on agricultural conference andexhibitiononagricultural th InternationalHLS&CyberCon- - eager tofollowthetrend. only conclude the business events industry is of 40%intourismnumbers2017,youcan know that the‘non-stop city’ witnessedarise a newplayeronthe world’sstage.Whenyou The ultimate goal is to introduce Tel Aviv as thanks toawhole-of-a-cityapproach. shows – these efforts are starting to yield fruit participates to international trade fairs and tives both in North America and Europe, works together with national representa- Tel Avivis instrumental in bringing in leads, Congress & Convention Association: Expo been recognized by ICCA, the International on the international meetings map have a partnerof. Efforts to position themselves Convention Bureau,which Expo Tel Avivis This the vision is up by Tel Aviv backed industries.” these seek toincrease our, Tel Aviv’s andIsrael's share of boast turnovers oftens ofbillions ofdollars andwe global convention and convention tourism industries conventions.hosts andproduces international The [email protected] \www.expotelaviv.co.il Contact: DESTINATIONS \TELAVIV
ENTRANCE TO EXPO TEL AVIV
73 \ FEBRUARY 2019 BOARDROOM ADVISORY BOARD
Silke Jennifer Giuseppe Mohamed David Schlinnertz Fontanella Marletta Mezghani Macadam Head of Director of Operations Managing Director Europe, Secretary General, CEO, Middle East Council Operations & Events, and Finance, International Association of Corporate UITP: Advancing Public of Shopping Centres Euroheat & Power Studies Association (ISA) Counsel (ACC) Transport (MECSC)
Appointed in July 2014, Jennifer has been with Prior to joining ACC, Mohamed worked at UITP A Canadian, resident in the Silke is in charge of the ISA since July 2014 when Giuseppe Marletta was as Senior Manager (1999- UAE for fourteen years, oversight and management the association moved its the General Manager of 2001), Director Knowledge David has held leading roles of the Euroheat & Power headquarters to the Uni- the International Associ- and Membership Services in the region with major office, events organisation versity of Connecticut. ation of Young Lawyers. (2001-2006) and Senior shopping centre develop- and relations with Euro- She is responsible for In his career, he has man- Adviser to the Secretary ment companies and advi- heat & Power members and the management of ISA aged several European and General (2006-2013). He sory firms before taking partners. She joined Euro- headquarter staff and has international groups and also out several technical over in 2013 as the CEO heat & Power in March responsibility for manag- associations, in the field of assistance and training pro- of the MECSC. David is a 2011 from Colloquium ing the ISA's budget and intercultural dialogue, pol- jects in Africa and the Mid- regular contributor to local Brussels, an international finances as well as coordi- icy making, project man- dle-East. He established the and international maga-
74 \ BOARDROOM MAGAZINE BOARDROOM \ 74 events agency. nating future convention agement as well as in the UITP office for the Mid- zines and often appears on planning. health sector. Giuseppe is dle-East and North Africa television. Vice-President of ESAE, in Dubai. the European Society of Association Executives.
Digital Editor Boardroom \ The Best Resource for Associations Vicky Koffa \ [email protected] Address Boardroom is published 5 times a year: February, May, July, Administration & Accounting September, November \ P922075 Circulation: 8,000 copies. Avenue des Volontaires 19 - 1160 Brussels – Belgium Anny Van Sinay \ Petra Sel \ [email protected] The articles published in Boardroom are exclusively owned by [email protected] \ www.boardroom.global \ the Publisher, unless mentioned otherwise. The right to use, af- T. +32 2 743 47 20 Design ter publication, part or all of any article in subsequent works has Paf ! \ pafdesign.be \ [email protected] \ +32 2 743 47 28 to be granted by the Publisher. Any other use or reproduction Founder & Managing Partner of the work requires permission from the Publisher. Cécile Koch \ [email protected] \ +32 487 17 70 25 Photographer ©Anders Jilden (Cover) Partner of Founder & Chief Editor Responsible Publisher Rémi Dévé \ [email protected] \ +32 487 17 70 73 KODE Publishing & Services Contributors Subscription MEDIA PARTNER Lane Nieset \ Chantelle Dietz \ John McCarrick \ Geneviève 98,50€ for 5 issues Leclerc \ Jenny Ennis \ Fanny Senez \ Molly Petrilla \ Ruby Kraner-Tucci \ Sarah Markey-Hamm \ Julianne Jammers To subscribe: [email protected] 75 \ FEBRUARY 2019 Big landscapes Inspire big thinking 2019 FEBRUARY 76 \
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