Connect Meetings has partnered with World Meetings Forum (WMF) to bring their events to Latin American, Central America, and Spanish-speaking Caribbean destination management companies (DMC).

“The increased presence of such destinations will meet the increasing demand of Connect attendees looking to source international association conferences, global corporate meetings and incentive trips in Mexico, the Caribbean and beyond,” Connect Meetings said in a statement. “Through Connect’s innovative reverse-style trade show, planners meeting one-on-one with representatives from international destinations can initiate their RFP process and build important business connections.”

WMF chair Rafael Hernandez will act as the liaison between Connect Meetings and the World Meetings Forum.

“We are extremely excited to have highly regarded partners such as Rafael Hernandez and the World Meetings Forum,” said Derek Rodriguez, Connect’s vice president of sales. “I am confident that this would only add to the value Connect offers the events industry as we all are looking to rebound from such a challenging period.”

Connect Meeting’s 2022 events include the Connect Spring Marketplace in Puerto Rico, May 22-24, and Connect Marketplace in Detroit, Aug. 8-10. Connect 2021, which was held Aug. 30-Sept. 1 in Tampa, Fla, had around 2,500 event professionals.

“We see a great opportunity to help and open new business opportunities for exhibitors that want and need new opportunities with the U.S.-based qualified buyers at Connect events,” Hernandez said. “We expect the same excitement for U.S. companies that can take advantage of opportunities in this part of the world.”

Photo by Christie’s Photographic Solutions