Endorsing Associations

Established in 1968, International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) has over 90 members across 30 countries, and is the only international organisation devoted specifically to professional congress organisers (PCOs). Acknowledged as a world leader in congress training and education, IAPCO runs a series of national, regional and international seminars and workshops, including the acclaimed Annual “Wolfsberg” Seminar now in its 31st year. It publishes a series of industry guidelines including First Steps, How to Choose the Right PCO, Industry Prospectus, Bidding for a Congress, Safety and Security, etc, all of which, together with IAPCO’s newsletter “The PCO”, are available to non-members on request.

National Business Travel Association (NBTA) is the source for critical information on the business travel industry. For more than 35 years, NBTA has dedicated itself to the professional development of its members through advocacy, education and training, as well as networking opportunities. NBTA represents over 2,500 corporate travel managers and travel service providers, who collectively manage and direct more than $170 billion of expenditures within the business.

Founded in 1951, Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is the recognised authority on Asia Pacific travel and tourism. PATA provides leadership and advocacy to the collective efforts of nearly 100 government, state and city tourism bodies, more than 55 airlines and cruise lines, and hundreds of travel industry companies. In addition, thousands of travel professionals belong to dozens of PATA chapters worldwide. PATA is a not-for-profit organisation.

Supporting Associations

The Australian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) leads in creating an environment, in Australia, in which Association Management is duly recognised and respected as a profession. AuSAE also leads in the development of professional, competent association managers. AuSAE addresses the interests of Australia's top executives from business, professional, technical, trade, sporting and welfare associations. Members come from religious, educational and other interest associations and from various non profit financial institutions.

The Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE) promotes the value of not-for-profit organizations in Canada by reinforcing and advancing the excellence and professionalism of its members through relevant education, advocacy, information and research.

Hong Kong Association of Travel Agents (HATA) was founded in 1957 with the primary aim of having a representative body to negotiate at Government and management levels and to establish the travel and tourist industry on an ethical and professional basis. HATA assumes many responsibilities to assure its members and their clients of the best possible service. The Association has raised the standards of criteria for membership which cover capitalization, premises, staff qualifications and period of operations. HATA is an extremely active Association with over 250 inbound and outbound operator members who handle the majority of the travel business in Hong Kong.

With over 900 member organisations and companies in 85 countries, International Congress & Convention Association (ICCA) provides a worldwide network of meeting professionals, experts in all aspects of hosting and organising congresses and conventions. ICCA offers its members unique opportunities to access comprehensive meetings data, to exchange business leads and meet potential clients.

The Purchasing and Supply Association (Singapore) is a not-for-profit professional organisation that was initiated to enhance the development of the purchasing and supply profession by providing them educational opportunities and relevant information through a variety of programmes, services and activities.

The Society of Incentive & Travel Executives (SITE), Hong Kong Chapter comprises of Customer Service professionals interested in enhancing their professional development through attendence at seminars, chapter meetings and through networking. The chapter offers several formal and informal gatherings each year where members have an opportunity to explore and learn about new ideas, systems, and technology. Best of all, members get the opportunity to meet fellow professionals who may become friends, advisors, or that crucial business contact.

The Society of Incentive & Travel Executives (SITE), Thailand Chapter comprises experienced practitioners in the incentive industry who can assist in planning and delivering successful incentive travel programs in Thailand.