The Events Industry Council (EIC), global advocates for the business events industry on professional recognition and standards, has launched a global industry survey in partnership with Oxford Economics. The 2026 Global Economic Significance of Business Events Study (ESS) invites professionals from across the global business events ecosystem to contribute insights to inform a final report, which to be released 6 May 2026 in conjunction with Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID).
The study, conducted every three years aims to provide comprehensive analyses of the global business events sector. The seminal research measures the industry’s economic contribution, including jobs supported, spending generated and broader community impact.
“The Economic Significance Study is the one of the most credible and impactful tools we have for demonstrating the value of business events to policymakers, investors and communities around the world,” said Amy Calvert, president and CEO of the Events Industry Council. “By participating in this survey, professionals across our industry are joining a global effort to ensure that the story we tell about our impact is both credible and representative of the global ecosystem.”
“Strong advocacy begins with strong evidence,” said Stephanie Harris, 2026 chair of the EIC Board of Directors and president of the Incentive Research Foundation. “This study provides the data our industry needs to demonstrate its full economic and societal impact.”
EIC also announced the first Global Visionary Sponsors supporting the study: Meeting Professionals International (MPI) and the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA).
“MPI is proud to support this important initiative,” said Paul Van Deventer, president and CEO of MPI. “Accurate, credible economic data strengthens our industry’s ability to advocate for the policies, investments and infrastructure that enable meetings and events to thrive.”
“Business events create meaningful economic and social value in communities around the world,” said Sherrif Karamat, CAE, president and CEO of PCMA. “Supporting this study and encouraging industry participation ensures we have the insights and evidence needed to advance the sector and demonstrate its lasting impact.”
The survey takes approximately 20 minutes to complete and will close 31 March 2026. Participants will receive one Continuing Education (CE) credit toward CMP certification or recertification. Take the survey.
Learn more at www.eventscouncil.org.
