Latest news with #SkiftMeetingsForum
Skift
5 days ago
- Business
- Skift
What Past Attendees Say About Skift Meetings Forum
Event leaders keep coming back to Skift Meetings Forum for one reason: it delivers. Sharp strategy, real talk, and takeaways that actually work. Here's what past attendees have to say. 'It's the rare event where every conversation, on stage and off, shapes how I approach my job,' said one returning attendee. In just two years, Skift Meetings Forum has become the rare industry gathering where senior event leaders talk strategy, swap solutions, and leave with frameworks they can actually use. The 2025 edition promises to push those conversations even further, building on insights from the first two sold-out forums. Skift Meetings Forum Testimonials: What Attendees Say The feedback speaks volumes. A senior planner at a Fortune 500 brand called it 'the most efficient day I spend all year. Sharp content, zero filler, and real connections with peers who face the same high-stakes challenges.' Another attendee praised its networking depth: 'The intimacy makes it easy to connect with seniors you usually only see across a crowded convention hall.' Others emphasized its editorial edge. 'The speakers don't just inspire, they give frameworks you can apply Monday morning,' said a global events VP. 'It's the strategy you actually use.' From Launch to Industry Essential The inaugural 2023 forum set the tone: small by design, high on candor, and laser-focused on the future of business events. Topics ranged from AI-driven efficiencies to DEI strategies and the shifting workplace. In 2024, the forum scaled up without losing focus, taking over The Glasshouse in New York City, featuring high-profile names like Seth Godin and Monique Ruff-Bell. 'The single-stage format meant no FOMO,' shared one VP of global events. 'You knew you were in the room for the conversation that mattered most.' Sessions explored meetings as revenue drivers, destination risk planning, and future-proof sponsorships, while maintaining the forum's hallmark intimacy. The result? A program senior leaders trust as both a think tank and an action plan. Why Skift Meetings Forum 2025 Is Unmissable The 2025 edition (September 15 at City Winery, NYC) builds directly on that momentum. Expect 'Keynote Listeners,' a fresh format designed for real-time response, plus targeted AI deep dives and sessions that sharpen the business case for events amid global uncertainty. This year is built for executives overseeing complex portfolios and large-scale budgets who need data-driven strategy and peer-tested solutions. Seating remains limited by design to keep conversations senior-level and solution-focused. Secure Your Seat Among Industry Leaders For those shaping the future of business events, this is where strategies meet action. Join the executives who will define event leadership's next chapter. Reserve your seat now for September 15 in NYC and take your place among the industry's most influential leaders.
Skift
30-07-2025
- Business
- Skift
5 Trends Driving the Future of Business Events in 2025
Budgets are tighter, audiences are more diverse, and the old event playbook is cracking under pressure. The Skift Meetings Forum tackles the real-world shifts redefining how event pros plan, prove value, and make destination decisions. There's no shortage of 'trends' floating around in eventland – some recycled, some wishful thinking, and some straight from AI hallucinations. But if you work in business events, you don't need another listicle. You need to know what's actually reshaping your budgets, strategies, and attendee expectations. Politics, economic pressure, technology shifts, and changing audience behavior are all forcing senior planners, marketers, and destination strategists to rethink their roles and recalibrate their approach. That's exactly what we're digging into at the Skift Meetings Forum. But before you see it play out live, here's a look at the five trends truly reshaping the business events landscape right now. 1. Events Are Being Measured by Business Results, Not Attendance Leadership teams are asking tougher questions: Did this event move the needle for the pipeline? Did we shift buyer behavior? What outcomes can we prove? Events are no longer separate from the business engine. And it's definitely not enough to hit registration targets or get good post-event survey scores. They need to support sales goals, reinforce brand strategy, and deliver clear value. And that conversation starts early at the planning stage. The takeaway: if your event can't hold its own in a boardroom conversation, it may not hold its place on the calendar. 2. Geopolitics Is Forcing a Smarter Approach to Destination Strategy With elections, unrest, visa restrictions, and inflation, it's no longer safe to assume that a great venue and flight access are enough. Every international event now includes a layer of geopolitical risk assessment, and many organizations are reconsidering long-standing destination habits. But this isn't only about minimizing risk. There's an opportunity in the disruption. Secondary cities and lesser-known regions with political stability, strong infrastructure, and compelling value are getting fresh attention from planners under pressure. Planners need to think outside the box like never before. 3. Business Festivals Are Changing the Value Equation Traditional conferences still have their place, but the energy is shifting. Events that blend serious content with high-quality production, cultural moments, and human connection are getting traction. Less 'meeting,' more 'movement.' Attendees expect inspiration, surprise, and the kind of networking that doesn't feel like work. While they come at a premium, they deliver on impact and memorability. For next-gen attendees, this format hits the mark: smart, unexpected, and time well spent. Sponsors are asking different questions, too. They want better targeting, more control over how they engage, and results they can report back to their leadership. Standard packages are fading. The new playbook includes integrated content, hands-on experiences, data-backed insights, and co-created moments that actually add to the event experience. If you're still selling square footage and banner ads, you're leaving long-term sponsor relationships (and money) on the table. 5. AI is Transforming the Back End of the Industry The AI conversation has moved past gimmicks and hype. The planners and marketers making real progress are using AI for operational efficiency, personalized content strategy, and smarter audience segmentation to enhance decision-making. This is less about innovation theater and more about optimization. As pressure builds to do more with less, AI is emerging as a powerful tool for planners in tackling everyday tasks to managing large-scale portfolios, and global teams. This Is What We're Talking About at the Skift Meetings Forum 2025 These aren't surface-level shifts. They're the real factors driving conversations in boardrooms, planning meetings, and strategy sessions across the industry, and they're built directly into the program at this year's Skift Meetings Forum. From Monique Ruff-Bell at TED and Anick Beaulieu at C2, to Tavar James at Forrester and Tahira Endean at IMEX, our speakers are the leaders building strategies and formats around these exact challenges. Every session is designed to give planners, marketers, and senior event leaders a better read on the future and the tools to respond to it with confidence. Skift Meetings Forum Isn't About Watching Trends. It's About Acting on Them. If you're shaping strategy, managing growth, or leading innovation across your event portfolio, this is where you want to be. Explore the full agenda and see how these conversations unfold with the people who are setting the pace for the rest of the industry. Because staying ahead means stepping into the room where the future is already being built.
Skift
15-07-2025
- Business
- Skift
Introducing Keynote Listeners: Elevating Voices and Ideas at Skift Meetings Forum
Keynote Listeners debut at Skift Meetings Forum 2025 to spark deeper dialogue, spotlight emerging ideas, and carry the industry's most important conversations far beyond the stage. At Skift Meetings Forum 2025, we are reimagining what it means to participate in a conference. With the debut of Keynote Listeners, we challenge traditional ideas of VIP involvement and creating space for deeper, more purposeful engagement. This new program invites influential voices in the events industry not just to attend, but to actively shape and extend the impact of the conversations happening on stage. Keynote Listeners will play a central role in listening with intent, identifying emerging themes, and presenting meaningful takeaways that resonate far beyond the forum itself. Now is your chance to see this concept in action and help set the tone for the future of our industry. Listening With Purpose Our Keynote Listeners are not just VIPs in the traditional sense, but leaders in the events industry who are hand-selected to play a transformative role at the forum. They'll enjoy exclusive front-row access to every keynote, panel, and discussion. But their role goes much further: to listen intentionally, critically, and with curiosity, then carry the most important insights forward. These leaders will reflect on what they've heard, distill the key themes and ideas, and in the closing session, they'll take the stage to share their takeaways with the entire audience. Beyond the forum, they bring these conversations into boardrooms, association meetings, and policy discussions, ensuring that the ideas born at Skift Meetings Forum don't end when the lights go down. Meet the Skift Meetings Forum 2025 Keynote Listeners Keynote Listeners embody a fresh vision of leadership: one rooted in responsiveness, diversity, and purpose. They remind us that listening — really listening — is as essential to progress as speaking. We're proud to welcome this inaugural group of Keynote Listeners, each representing a different corner of the industry: Liz Lathan, Club Ichi Amy Calvert, Events Industry Council (EIC) Nicola Kastner, Event Leaders Exchange (ELX) Steve Bova, Financial & Insurance Conference Professionals (FICP) Dr. Senthil Gopinath, International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) These leaders will help distill impactful insights from the forum and amplify them within the broader professional community. Why Attend Skift Meetings Forum 2025? If you care about the future of meetings and events, this isn't just about being in the room but being part of the conversation that shapes what comes next. Attending the Skift Meetings Forum gives you the opportunity to: Gain actionable insights from some of the most respected voices in the industry Be part of forward-looking conversations that influence real change Network with peers, innovators, and decision-makers from across the globe Experience the debut of the Keynote Listeners program and see its impact firsthand Read More: Who Attends Skift Meetings Forum? Reserve Your Spot Today Tickets for the Skift Meetings Forum are in high demand, and availability is limited. Secure your place now to ensure you are part of this important moment for the industry. Let's shape the future of meetings together.
Skift
19-06-2025
- Business
- Skift
Who Attends Skift Meetings Forum (And Why You Should Too)
Skift Meetings Forum has firmly established itself as a premier event for senior planners and event industry leaders who are driving change and shaping the future of global meetings. If you're wondering whether this forum is the right fit for you or your organization, this post provides an in-depth look at the attendees, their professional profiles, and what makes Skift Meetings Forum 2025 a must-attend event. What Is Skift Meetings Forum? Skift Meetings Forum is an annual gathering designed to challenge conventional thinking in the meetings and events industry. Held in New York City, the forum is known for its focus on actionable insights, peer-driven content, and impactful strategies. The unique format facilitates conversations and creates an intimate and engaging environment for its attendees. Who Attends Skift Meetings Forum? The audience at Skift Meetings Forum is highly curated to ensure meaningful networking and strategic discussions, attracting some of the most forward-thinking professionals in the industry. Download our Audience Snapshot for insights into this year's confirmed attendees. Attendee Categories The forum attracts: Corporate Planners responsible for crafting experiences for internal teams or external stakeholders. responsible for crafting experiences for internal teams or external stakeholders. Event Agencies leading the design and execution of globally recognized meetings. leading the design and execution of globally recognized meetings. Association and Nonprofit Planners coordinating large-scale gatherings for their communities. coordinating large-scale gatherings for their communities. Government and Academic Planners managing events focused on public sector or educational outcomes. This diverse mix of professionals ensures a dynamic exchange of ideas and perspectives in every session. The Experience Levels and Budgets of Attendees Participants at Skift Meetings Forum are experienced decision-makers with significant influence and resources at their disposal. Experience Levels: More than half (59%) of 2024 attendees were seasoned strategists and leaders who had over 15 years of experience. Budgets: Nearly half (44.4%) of audience members managed annual event budgets of$5 million or more, a testament to their role in overseeing high-level, resource-intensive projects. Event Scale: 47% of 2024 attendees planned events that catered to over 5,000 participants annually, underscoring the global impact they deliver through their work. Notable Organizations Represented Skift Meetings Forum has consistently drawn participation from a range of prominent organizations such as: Corporate Giants: Mastercard, PepsiCo, Amazon. Mastercard, PepsiCo, Amazon. Event Innovators: Event Leaders Exchange, Freeman, Bizzabo. Event Leaders Exchange, Freeman, Bizzabo. Associations: American Montessori Society, PCMA, MPI. American Montessori Society, PCMA, MPI. Destination and Tourism Boards: Discover Puerto Rico, Visit KC (Kansas City), NYC Tourism. Discover Puerto Rico, Visit KC (Kansas City), NYC Tourism. Nonprofits and Research Institutions: Earthjustice, The MITRE Corporation, Guttmacher Institute. What Happens at the Forum? Skift Meetings Forum consistently addresses pressing challenges and innovative opportunities in the industry. 2025 session topics include: Actionable Insights for Planners Dealing With Geopolitical Uncertainty The Unfair Advantage: How Leading Event Companies Are Really Leveraging AI Turning Events from Cost Centers to Valuable Investments The Sponsorship Evolution: From Logos to Memorable Branded Experiences View more discussion points here. Attendees come away not with vague ideas but with actionable frameworks, peer-tested strategies, and insights tailored to current industry challenges. Venue and Atmosphere Skift Meetings Forum 2025 takes place at City Winery NYC, an intimate venue that balances modern aesthetics with practical functionality. The space offers just the right buzz for facilitating conversations without overwhelming attendees. Designed for dialogue rather than distraction, the forum's atmosphere elevates peer connections and fosters a sense of shared purpose. Why Attend? Value for Event Professionals Skift Meetings Forum stands out for its tangible value to senior event planners. Here's why it's worth attending: Actionable ROI Strategies: Learn from industry leaders how to measure and communicate the value of your events. Learn from industry leaders how to measure and communicate the value of your events. Continuing Education Credits (CMPs): Earn essential professional development points while gaining practical knowledge. Earn essential professional development points while gaining practical knowledge. Peer Insights: Connect with other senior planners to exchange ideas, identify what approaches work across industries, and leverage structured networking opportunities. Connect with other senior planners to exchange ideas, identify what approaches work across industries, and leverage structured networking opportunities. Focused, Sales-Free Environment: With no loud vendor pitches or overwhelming expos, you can focus on meaningful conversations and strategies. Secure Your Spot at Skift Meetings Forum If you're serious about elevating your strategies and driving innovation in your organization's meetings, Skift Meetings Forum is the event for you. Limited space is available by design, prioritizing conversation and deep engagement. Download Our Audience Snapshot to discover more about who will be attending this year. Then, visit Skift Meetings Forum for ticket and session details.
Skift
04-06-2025
- Business
- Skift
Skift Meetings Forum Returns to NYC With a Sharper Lens on Event Strategy
This is where real event strategy happens. Skift Meetings Forum returns this September, built for senior planners navigating higher expectations, tighter budgets, and an industry that refuses to stand still. Skift Meetings Forum is back — live at City Winery in NYC on Monday, September 15 - with a content-led, connection-fueled agenda designed for senior planners who want to lead, not follow. Whether you're responsible for a global meetings portfolio, running an internal events team, or crafting brand-defining experiences with lean resources, this forum will give you more than just talking points. You'll walk away with frameworks to prove ROI, fresh ways to activate strategy, and the kind of peer feedback you can't get from a webinar. This isn't another conference with glossy vendor booths and predictable panels. It's a gathering of top planners getting real and inspiring each other to innovate and thrive. What's Different This Year No fluff. No filler. No sales pitches. The 2025 Skift Meetings Forum agenda reflects the real-world pressures facing today's event leaders: Destinations Finding Opportunities Amid Geopolitical Uncertainty Turning Events from Cost Centers to Valuable Investments Cutting Costs Without Cutting Corners: The Planner's Impossible Balancing Act The Unfair Advantage: How Leading Event Companies Are Really Leveraging AI The Sponsorship Evolution: From Logos to Memorable Branded Experiences We're also exploring bold, high-stakes questions: → Is it time to launch your own event? → How are business festivals redefining attendee expectations? → Where does AI offer strategic lift - and where does it just add noise? Why Planners Are Joining Us You're not just managing meetings, you're delivering value. That means you need more than inspiration - you need outcomes. ✅ Proving the ROI Learn how top professionals build internal cases for investment, measure success across formats, and shift from logistics to leadership ✅ Peer-Validated Solutions Hear directly from top corporate planners aboutwhat's working, what's not, and how they're adapting in real time. ✅ Inspiration and Insights Explore trends, get close to the sources and discover new and exciting vendor solutions and game-changing concepts that are sure to push your meetings forward, all curated by the Skift Meetings team. ✅ Real Conversation, Not Expo Noise You won't be scanning badges or dodging sales reps. You'll be in curated conversations with your peers - not your inbox. Who You'll Be in the Room With We're curating attendance to prioritize senior-level planners across corporate, nonprofit, association and agencies — the kind of people who've been where you are and can share what they've learned. Expect to connect with: Directors & VPs of Events managing multi-million dollar global portfolios managing multi-million dollar global portfolios Heads of Experiential & Audience Engagement shaping hybrid-first programs shaping hybrid-first programs CXOs & Strategists looking to align events with brand and business growth looking to align events with brand and business growth Top event agency leaders behind some of the industry's most talked-about formats Apply to Attend 📍 City Winery, NYC 📅 Monday, September 15, 2025 🎟️ Apply to attend Space is limited by design. We're optimizing for conversation, not crowds. If you're serious about driving change in how your organization thinks about events, we can't wait to see you there.
