Consider taking your conference closer to home.
For years, Dublin has been lauded as a centre for ICT, financial and pharmaceutical companies, with many choosing Dublin as their European headquarters. But did you know, with four universities and multiple hospitals, it’s also a hot bed for research and academia? Having been host to a wide range of association conferences from the medical, biopharma, medtech and technology sectors, Dublin is the ideal destination for any event. As a city that is always ready to welcome tourists, there couldn’t be a better option for an international conference or event.
Hosting an international conference in Dublin can help raise Ireland’s profile in a specific field or industry, generate revenue to fund future research and help further develop the hosting organisation. Many people believe this is an arduous task, planning and organising an event alongside a very busy working life, but with so much support from organisations like Dublin Convention Bureau, Science Foundation Ireland and Fáilte Ireland, organisers can rest assured they are not alone, help is at hand.
Talk to your venue
Many venues have in-house experience and knowledge of supporting conference ambassadors bringing an event to the city. Having hosted a wide range of association conferences from the medical, biopharma, medtech and technology sectors, The Convention Centre Dublin (The CCD) is well acquainted with the requirements and objectives of association clients. The CCD’s Account Managers have extensive knowledge of the association market and are well-acquainted with the competitive bidding process that can be required to attract events to the city. They work with the local organising committee on practical supports such as personalised bid documents or professional video presentations when presenting to the International Committee. With over 14 years of experience hosting international association conferences, they can also help with promoting the bid at the association’s international conference, assisting with the selection of a Professional Conference Organiser (PCO), and sharing professional advice and support every step of the way.
Seek out specialised support organisations
Last year, business tourism contributed €919 million to the Irish economy. So, it is no surprise that there are plenty of organisations whose very aim is to support those bringing international conferences to Ireland. These entities offer everything from strategic advice and bid support to financial incentives and logistical help, ensuring that organisers have the backing they need to execute a seamless event.
Dublin Convention Bureau (DCB) is the leading organisation for business tourism in Dublin. Their aim is to promote business tourism in Dublin while providing free and impartial information and other supports services to those event organisers and meeting planners. They offer an array of support to help individuals and associations bring international events to the city. Their Planners’ Toolkit hosts many fantastic resources that can help when considering or planning an event in Ireland.
Science Foundation Ireland’s (SFI) is the national foundation for investment in scientific and engineering research. They fund research in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) which promotes and assists the development and competitiveness of industry, enterprise and employment in Ireland.
The Foundation also promotes and supports STEM education and engagement and creates awareness and understanding of the value of STEM to society and to the growth of the economy.
SFI’s Conference and Workshop Programme facilitates international and national conferences and workshops taking place in Ireland that encourage dissemination and collaboration on research topics of timely importance covered by its legal remit.
Fáilte Ireland’s conference ambassador programme was developed to support individuals who want to host an international conference in Ireland and provides assistance and financial support at every stage of the event. From the initial bid to the event itself, the Meet in Ireland team work hard to support conference ambassadors to deliver successful conferences and provide unique experiences for delegates.
Financial supports
Financial supports are available from Fáilte Ireland for conferences and corporate meetings, including support for site inspection visits, as well as the overall programme enhancement of your event. Depending on the length of the event and the number of delegates attended, there could be financial aid to include welcome receptions, social excursions, transport and entertainment.
Under the Retail Export Scheme, tax relief may also be available to non-EU delegates on the purchase of goods while they are visiting.
Dublin is a top destination for international conferences. If you’re considering hosting your next conference or event closer to home, there’s no better time than now to start. With so many supports in place from event venues, specialist organisations, and government schemes, an organiser is never alone. The city offers a wealth of resources and support systems that make the process manageable and successful, and what may seem impossible can be easily brought to life. Embrace the opportunities that are on your doorstep and utilise Dublin’s resources to create a memorable and impactful event.