This was the ICCA Association Circle 2026!

Actionable Risk Insights for Events and Association Professionals

Hands-On Tools and Real-World Scenarios

Stronger, More Resilient Events and Partnerships

This was the inaugural ICCA Association Circle 2026, a new chapter in ICCA’s commitment to lifelong learning, collaboration, and innovation within the global meetings and events industry. Bringing together 29 association and 54 event professionals from 30+ countries, the event created a dynamic space for open discussion, peer-to-peer exchange, and practical learning.

In partnership with Copenhagen Convention Bureau and GainingEdge, attendees explored the timely and critical topic of risk management in the business events industry through interactive sessions, expert insights, and hands-on discussions inspired by the Copenhagen Risk Assessment White Paper 2023 and the Copenhagen Risk Navigator - International Strategies & Tools for Business Events 2026. Together with global risk experts FERMA and RIMS, the programme provided participants with valuable tools, strategies, and perspectives to help navigate an increasingly complex event landscape.

Building on the strong legacy of AES, ICCA Association Circle 2026 marked the beginning of a refreshed approach to education and engagement — one that reflects the evolving needs of the industry while strengthening global connections across the ICCA community.

Designed to Experience

Sunday, 17 May 2026 | 13:00–17:30
 Monday, 18 May 2026 | 08:30–10:30
Maritim Hotel Frankfurt

Why Should You Attend?

Expertise

Strengthen your understanding of global risk trends, core risk management principles, and practical strategies across the meetings and congress industry ecosystem.

Practical Skills

Elevate industry-wide risk management capabilities by introducing relevant tools that enable the planning and delivery of resilient, successful events and sustainable long-term business collaboration.


Networking

Connect with like-minded individuals and expand your professional network.

Tailored Content

Learn practical, tailor-made risk management tools designed specifically for the congress and meetings industry


Experience the Concept

Who Should Attend?

Meeting professionals and association representatives who have experience in risk management, or whose roles require a strong interest and engagement in risk-related topics.

Association Executives

Association executives involved in negotiating, planning and/or running international association meetings. 

ICCA Members

ICCA Members who work closely with international associations, such as in negotiation and sales and marketing roles or planning and delivering association meetings on behalf of associations as a PCO.

Observers

Any stakeholders who are not an association executive or ICCA Member, who work closely with international associations, such as in negotiation and sales and marketing roles or planning and delivering association meetings on behalf of associations as a PCO.

''Your pre-IMEX Seminar has consistently proven to be an ideal platform for deeper learning and meaningful

connections that often evolve into long-term partnerships. The relaxed atmosphere

allows participants to engage thoughtfully and build relationships before diving into the

fast-paced environment of IMEX. I strongly encourage anyone looking to advance their

career in the industry to participate, as it also provides valuable insights into ICCA's vital

role in the global meetings Industry''

Jeffers Miruka, Managing Director, African Society of Association Executives

''The pre-IMEX Seminar on AI and DEIBA was a truly enriching experience. I gained valuable insights

and had the opportunity to connect with other professionals who face similar challenges.

The sessions were both practical and concrete, offering real-world applications that I can

take back to my work. It was a great investment of my time and a fantastic learning

opportunity.''

Celine Canu, Managing Director, IFALPA - International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations

''As always ICCA seminars has been incredibly useful and a great opportunity to grow in

my professional journey. I'm looking forward to attending more workshops and learning

from the leading experts in the events industry.''


Vanessa Vorlop, Junior Event Manager, International Cartilage Regeneration & Joint Preservation Society

Venue

Maritim Hotel Frankfurt

The Maritim Hotel Frankfurt is ideally located next to the Frankfurt Trade Fair and close to the Skyline Plaza shopping center. The hotel offers free WiFi and a spa area featuring a swimming pool, fitness area, and gym.


For more information about the hotel, please click here.

Event Sponsors & Partners

Event Partner

AI Partner

AI-Driven Photo Platform Partner

Event Sponsors

Airline Partners

ICCA Association Partners

Industry Partners

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