BestCities
Creative collaborations for thriving communities
WE REPORT ON THE RECENT BESTCITIES GLOBAL FORUM 2025 IN DUBLIN
T he historic city of Dublin recently played host to the BestCities Global Forum , where industry leaders converged to explore ‘ Creative collaborations : Innovating for greater communities ’. In Ireland ’ s capital – named the 2024 European Capital of Smart Tourism – delegates examined how collaborative approaches can drive innovation , foster inclusivity , and transform global challenges into community-driven solutions .
The forum leveraged Dublin ’ s thriving technology ecosystem to demonstrate cutting-edge developments in the events industry . Barry Rogers , head of Dublin City Tourism Unit , opened proceedings by highlighting the city ’ s Smart Tourism Programme , which encompasses over 20 pioneering projects .
Technology took centre stage with Mark Kelly ’ s exploration of artificial intelligence ’ s evolution from simple tools to sophisticated agents now partnering with businesses across the events sector . His presentation illuminated how AI is reshaping destination marketing , attendee engagement , and operational logistics for convention bureaus worldwide . Delegates were particularly engaged by case studies demonstrating measurable improvements in sustainability metrics and attendee satisfaction through AI implementation .
Maryrose Lyons followed with a handson workshop that equipped attendees with practical AI applications to enhance event planning and operational efficiency . Participants left with actionable strategies to implement AI tools that could reduce planning time by up to 30 % while improving personalisation capabilities .
Local culture meets global vision A standout feature of this year ’ s forum was the strategic partnership with iconic Irish organisations including the Gaelic Athletics Association and Gaelic Players Association . These collaborations illuminated how deeply embedded cultural institutions can contribute to community building – aligning with the forum ’ s central theme of creative collaboration .
Representatives shared how their community-centred approach has sustained Irish sporting traditions for generations while simultaneously addressing contemporary social challenges . Their community outreach programmes provided a blueprint for how convention bureaus might similarly engage with local stakeholders to create more authentic , impactful events .
Left : A Patrick Delaney welcome in Dublin
Impact through collaboration The BestCities Global Alliance is a network of 13 leading convention bureaus and structures its mission around three core initiatives :
The Incredible Impacts Programme celebrates the societal value of international association meetings beyond traditional tourism metrics . Each year , independent judges award grants of $ 20,000 and $ 5,000 to organisations demonstrating exceptional impact . Past recipients showcased their initiatives during a dedicated session , highlighting successful knowledge transfer programmes and community engagement strategies .
The Madrid Challenge unites destinations and associations in promoting sustainable event industry models . Participants pledge to deliver value beyond tourism , raising industry standards by prioritising impact and sustainability in organisational strategies . During the forum , five new organisations signed the challenge , committing to measurable sustainability targets for their upcoming events .
The alliance ’ s Commitment to a Sustainable Future guides associations and destinations toward creating sustainable meetings with meaningful legacies for host communities . A panel discussion featuring sustainability experts provided concrete examples of how event legacies can support local economic development , environmental conservation , and social inclusion .
Looking forward : Guadalajara 2026 The forum previewed next year ’ s gathering in Guadalajara , Mexico , scheduled to run 5-8 February , 2026 . There delegates will explore ‘ Innovating with tradition , for a sustainable future ’. Ligia González from the Guadalajara Convention & Visitors Bureau shared her vision for an event that will celebrate the region ’ s rich cultural heritage while demonstrating how traditional practices can inspire contemporary solutions for sustainable event design and execution . n
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