ICCA
Championing American associations on the global stage
ICCA CEO DR SENTHIL GOPINATH LOOKS AT THE HUGE DRIVING MOTORS FOR INTERNATIONAL MEETINGS THAT ARE US-BASED ASSOCIATIONS
A merican-based associations
continue to be one of the strongest driving forces in the global meetings landscape. Their impact doesn’ t just come from the size of their events, but from their ability to shape professions and set standards that reach far beyond US borders. While global conversations often focus on rotating international associations, US-based organisations operate on a model built on scale, stability, and strong convening power, which gives them a unique voice in international dialogue. Their annual meetings often serve as a powerful force in their communities, sustaining networks of research, education, and professional development after attendees head home.
Why US associations matter globally ICCA data shows that in 2023, the United States hosted more than 900 international association meetings, representing 12 % of the world’ s total. Yet this number doesn ' t fully show their wider global footprint. More than 1,500 US associations now run meetings with significant international participation, even if those events stay in the same location year after year. Many major medical, scientific, and technology societies regularly draw 15,000 – 30,000 attendees, with 20 % to 40 % coming from outside the US.
Organisations like ASCO, RSNA, and AHA influence global practice not just through in-person events but through the standards, guidelines, and content they generate year-round.
Their global influence is reinforced by three key factors:
• International membership: Many US associations have 25 % to 45 % international membership. This figure keeps growing as they expand education, certification, and research networks.
• Content that becomes global practice: Guidelines released at US meetings often evolve into global norms adopted across continents.
• Digital access: With advanced digital platforms, US associations engage worldwide audiences regardless of travel or geopolitical restrictions.
The evolving global landscape for US associations The present moment is driving exciting new opportunities. Associations across the US are reimagining how they connect, convene, and create global impact through practical, future‐ready approaches:
• Regional hubs and satellite meetings: Offering accessible entry points that sustain global communities year‐round.
• Strategic international hosting: Bringing key meetings abroad to strengthen partnerships and expand global presence.
• Always‐on digital engagement: Education, research networks, and virtual programmes that broaden reach and inclusion.
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Senthil Gopinath
• Active advocacy on mobility and research issues: Working with government and policy bodies to unlock smoother pathways for global collaboration.
These shifts aren’ t a step back. The represent a step forward. By embracing new formats and championing global connectivity, US associations are positioning themselves as steady, trusted conveners in a rapidly changing world.
Where ICCA makes the difference ICCA advocates for US associations by amplifying their global influence, providing market intelligence, and helping them navigate international growth. At the same time, ICCA helps destinations understand what American associations truly need – from mobility support to new event formats to international partnership models.
As Shawn Cheng, ICCA’ s regional director North America, notes:“ American associations are not retreating from global engagement; they ' re evolving how they deliver it.”
American associations that embrace global operating models, and destinations that can support them, are the ones that will set the stage for future growth and development. ICCA’ s role is to guide that evolution with data, insights, and advocacy that empower US associations to lead globally with confidence and clarity. n
ISSUE 141 / CONFERENCE & MEETINGS WORLD / 9