Join us at IBTM World 2026
Unlocking Excellence — Together
🗓️ Tuesday–Thursday, 17–19 November 2026
📍 Barcelona, Spain
IBTM World is approaching — and IAPCO is ready to unlock new opportunities with our Members and Partners.
Over three days, IAPCO will bring its global community together at this leading meetings and events industry show, with a programme spanning Education, Advocacy and Community. From practical insights into AI and new opportunities for professional development to conversations with Members and Partners, there is plenty to look forward to.
Join us to learn, reconnect and explore what we can achieve together.
A tailored IBTM experience, with our Members at its heart.
IAPCO will once again host an IAPCO Hosted Buyer Group, offering Members a tailored programme of education and networking, quality time with fellow Members and Strategic Partners, and travel and accommodation support in accordance with the Hosted Buyer Programme Terms and Conditions.
It is an opportunity to strengthen relationships, exchange ideas and make the most of your time in Barcelona.
IAPCO's programme — at a glance
Tuesday, 17 November
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10:30–11:00 — Pop-up Session
Getting Started with IAPCO Sustainability Handbook: Live Presentation and Q&A
📍 Stand P62
How can PCOs turn sustainability commitments into practical action? Join IAPCO for a live introduction to the new IAPCO Sustainability Handbook. The Handbook was developed by the IAPCO EDI & Sustainability Committee, with the support of Business Events Australia (BEA) and in collaboration with the Gulf Organisation for Research & Development (GORD).
Presented by IAPCO Council Member and Sustainability Committee Chair Ajay Bhojwani (MCI Group), the session will show how to use the Handbook’s practical guidance, frameworks and real-world examples to strengthen sustainability across PCO business operations and the events they deliver for clients. Join the Q&A to explore your next steps and discuss how to apply the Handbook within your organisation.
The Handbook is exclusive to IAPCO Members and available on the IAPCO Member Hub (member login required). -
IAPCO Drinks Reception
Reconnect with the IAPCO community and continue the day’s conversations.
Invitation only -
IAPCO Destination Partner Hosted Dinner
An evening to connect with colleagues and celebrate our destination partnerships.
Invitation only
Wednesday, 18 November
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IAPCO Destination Partner Stand Presentation
Invitation only -
11:00–11:45 — IAPCO Press Conference
IAPCO introduces the first individual accreditation for PCO professionals to the world
📍 IBTM Media CentreJoin IAPCO at IBTM World 2026 for the public release of ACE – Accredited Conference Expert, bringing IAPCO’s established accreditation expertise and commitment to excellence to individual professionals.
Developed by experts from IAPCO-accredited PCO companies, ACE gives professional knowledge and experience formal recognition through assessment. ACE I also carries EIC-approved CMP learning credits.
Hear from IAPCO’s leadership and the Events Industry Council about the programme’s vision, the value of IAPCO recognition for PCO professionals and the opportunities for employers to invest in the expertise within their teams.
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14:00–14:30 — IAPCO Pop-up Session
Getting Started with ACE I and webEDGE: Demo and Q&A
📍 Stand P62
Discover IAPCO ACE, the first individual accreditation for PCO professionals, connecting learning and professional experience with formal recognition. Developed with expertise from IAPCO-accredited PCO companies, ACE brings IAPCO’s commitment to professional excellence to the individual.
This session combines a demonstration of the IAPCO webEDGE learning platform with an introduction to the ACE I pathway, including eligibility, assessment requirements, CMP learning credits approved by the Events Industry Council (EIC), and how to enroll. Join the Q&A to explore your next steps, whether you are pursuing accreditation or investing in your team’s expertise. - 15:00–16:30 — EIC Pavilion Reception
FOR EIC PAVILION STAKEHOLDERS
📍 Stand P62
#UnlockingPartnerships — Collaboration in action
IAPCO returns to the EIC Pavilion, alongside our Strategic Partner, the Events Industry Council (EIC), and fellow industry leaders.
📍 EIC Pavilion — Stand P62
Partnerships sit at the heart of IAPCO’s mission. Our network of Commercial, Strategic and Media Partners powers programmes, deepens market intelligence and champions the value of engaging IAPCO Accredited PCOs. At IBTM World, IAPCO will celebrate established collaborations and shape new ones that deliver measurable outcomes for destinations, clients and delegates.
Meet the team
The IAPCO HQ team will be on site at IBTM World 2026. Whether you are exploring a partnership, looking to develop your team’s expertise or keen to make the most of your membership, come and connect with us.
IAPCO looks forward to welcoming you at the EIC Pavilion and to unlocking what comes next, together.