Tag: SportAccord

  • SportAccord Convention City Forum is back stronger than ever “assessing the impact of sport” on cities

    SportAccord Convention City Forum is back stronger than ever “assessing the impact of sport” on cities

    [Source: SportAccord Convention] City Forum, one of the ‘go-to’ events hosted by SportAccord Convention is back stronger than ever and will assess the impact of sport on cities. Set to take place on the afternoon of Tuesday 19 April at the SwissTech Convention Center in Lausanne, Switzerland, this year’s City Forum sees the return of the legendary Don Schumacher to lead the event. A cities champion and supporter, and known to many worldwide, Don has worked closely with SportAccord Convention to put together a thought-provoking programme for delegates. 
    “City Forum has always been popular and this year’s event has been given renewed focus following feedback from cities around the world,” said Don Schumacher, Executive Director and one of the Founders of the National Association of Sports Commissions (NASC). “Packed with practical advice, key insights and case studies, the sessions will be more interactive, enabling cities to come away with fresh ideas and know-how, as well as providing a valuable learning experience.”
    City Forum will begin with a session on The Current State of Affairs for cities presented by Sportcal. A Principal Media Partner of SportAccord Convention, they have developed an impact methodology to assist cities in valuing the various benefits of hosting sports events. Many of these benefits extend beyond economics, and each of the beneficial impacts will be examined and discussed. In addition, City Forum delegates will also receive an exclusive printed Summary. This will cover some of the highlights of the recently published Global Sports Impact (GSI) Report 2015, as well as gain some early insights from the next GSI Report due to be published on 1 June 2016. 
    Delegates will also be able to share their insights, thoughts and know-how in this year’s Group Project challenge and given an event-bidding issue to examine and debate. Groups will determine a course of action, reporting back to the City Forum on their decisions, and the reasoning behind them.
    As a precursor to the City Forum, the Convention will once again host the City-to-City gathering the morning of the City Forum. City-to-City is designed to give cities and regions a platform for free discussion on the needs and challenges faced in looking to host sport events.
    To find out more about the 4-day Conference Programme including City Forum, or to register for SportAccord Convention, visit: www.sportaccordconvention.com
    Source: SportAccord Convention
     

  • Host City welcomes City Day at SportAccord Convention

    Host City welcomes City Day at SportAccord Convention

    Once again, cities will be in the spotlight at this year’s SportAccord Convention with City-to-City and City Forum taking place on Tuesday 19 April at the SwissTech Convention Center, Lausanne. As ‘go-to’ events for delegates, this year’s City Day is no exception, with an excellent line-up of speakers, a content-packed programme assessing the impact of sport, with plenty of opportunity for the audience to be involved.
    Starting the day, City-to-City will enable delegates to hit the ground running by providing a platform for free discussion on the needs and challenges faced when looking to host sport events. Led by Iain Edmondson, Head of Major Events at London & Partners, he commented, “Cities like London have come to recognise the value of major events in developing our economy and society. We are always seeking to learn from colleagues around the world and we hope to see representatives from every continent taking part.” 
    Points for discussion could include: issues relating to the bid process, economic impact, legacy, governmental and private sector support, as well as other matters of concern. City-to-City is attended by representatives from regions, cities and countries, with delegates encouraged to share experiences and lessons learned.
    Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events commented, “Major events make a vital contribution to the Scottish economy and, in recent years, staging some of the world’s most prestigious events, such as the Commonwealth Games and Ryder Cup, has brought about substantial benefits for the nation.” He went on to say, “Our progress has been greatly aided by knowledge sharing and discussing best practice with other leading event-hosting nations and I look forward to the further opportunity of doing just that during City-to-City and City Forum at the SportAccord Convention.”
    The afternoon will begin with City Forum led by Don Schumacher, Executive Director of the National Association of Sports Commissions. The event will provide a series of seminars and panel sessions, addressing the needs and concerns of cities bidding for, as well as hosting, international sporting events. 
    Speaking of the importance of such an event, Ben Avison, Editorial and Conference Director of Host City for the Cavendish Group commented, “Host City is pleased to support City Forum at the SportAccord Convention. As a media provider, Host City always places cities at the centre of the major event hosting community and we welcome this excellent opportunity for cities to share experiences of hosting sports events.”
    The first City Forum session will focus on The Current State of Affairs for cities presented by one of the Principal Media Partners, Sportcal. Delegates will receive an exclusive printed Summary covering some of the highlights from the studies made for the Global Sports Impact (GSI) Reports.
    This year’s Event Watch focuses on the Tour de France Grand Départ providing a Netherlands case study on their decision to bid for the Tour start, as well as the results that followed.
    The City Forum will also focus on Government and Non-Government Hosting Models with representatives from different countries, discussing the benefits and limitations of various models used by cities, bidding for and hosting sporting events. In the final session, delegates will be able to take part in a Group Project challenge focused on an event-bidding issue.
    To find out more about SportAccord Convention, including the 4-day Conference Programme and Official Schedule, or to register for SportAccord Convention, visit: www.sportaccordconvention.com
    HOST CITY is the media brand of choice for cities, rights holders, organisers and suppliers in their quest for best practice on hosting major events. First published in 2003 for the organisers of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, HOST CITY now serves all sports, business and cultural events through a quarterly magazine, online news and live events. Contact ben.avison@hostcity.net or visit the website www.hostcity.com
     
    Source: SportAccord Convention
     

  • Host cities to form international association

    Host cities to form international association

    Over 50 representatives of cities, regions and countries attending this year’s SportAccord Convention, have reached an overwhelming consensus to move forward with the formation of an international association of event hosts.
    The representatives met at the City to City session facilitated by members of a working group who have been investigating the feasibility of forming an organisation for “not-for-profit” investors to share knowledge of hosting international events.
    During the session, representatives learned from the successes and challenges of a number of recent events hosted at destinations across the world.
    Representatives also provided feedback on different models of how destinations could share knowledge and generate greater benefits from hosting events. The working group will now take this feedback and develop a plan to formalise cooperation between destinations.
    Members of the working group to date include:
    •Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development
    •Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance
    •EventScotland
    •Fáilte Ireland, National Tourism Development Authority
    •London & Partners
    •Los Angeles Sports Council
    •New Zealand Major Events
    •Sport Event Denmark
    •USA National Association of Sports Commissions
    Iain Edmondson, Head of Major Events at London & Partners said “The very productive session at SportAccord Convention has again demonstrated the benefits of sharing experiences of hosting events. By working together I believe all investors in major events will generate greater long term value, whether they are public bodies, rights-owners or commercial sponsors.”
    “Sharing knowledge of hosting events is very important and cooperating with other hosts in a trusted environment will benefit all of us,” said Lars Lundov, CEO of Sport Event Denmark.
    Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events said: “Events and tourism have a hugely beneficial symbiotic relationship and this initiative can only do good for the industry.”
    Rick Traer, CEO, Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance added “We’ve seen the advantages of working together and sharing best practices at a national level. Taking those experiences to the international level and learning from our colleagues around the world will be a very productive partnership. Our cities will reap the benefit of knowledge from other countries, and sport tourism will continue to be a vital and vibrant part of our economy.” 
    Source: SportAccord Convention
     

  • New Sportaccord Council appointed In Lausanne

    New Sportaccord Council appointed In Lausanne

    The SportAccord Council met by tele-conference on Wednesday, 27 July 2016. The meeting was chaired by newly elected President, Mr. Patrick Baumann and confirmed the appointment of new Members to the SportAccord Council as proposed by its stakeholders:
    –    Mr. P. Baumann, FIBA Secretary General, (ASOIF)
    –    Ms. K. Caithness, WCF President, (AIOWF) 
    –    Ms. M. Casado, ITU President, (ASOIF) 
    –    Mr. R. Chiulli, UIM President (ARISF) 
    –    Mr. S. Fox, IFMA Secretary General (AIMS) 
    –    Mr. R. Fraccari, WBSC President (ARISF) 
    –    Mr. G.F. Kasper, FIS President, (AIOWF) 
    –    Mr. N. Lalovic, UWW President, (ASOIF) 
    –    Mr. J. Perurena, IWGA President, (Associate Members)
    The new SportAccord Council addressed the distribution of responsibilities within the Council and elected Mr. Raffaele Chiulli and Mr. Stephan Fox as Vice Presidents and Ms. Marisol Casado as Treasurer.
    Following an internal review carried out during the month of June by SportAccord President, Mr. Patrick Baumann and SportAccord Convention President, Mr. Francesco Ricci Bitti, the Council approved the combining of the Managing Director role for both organisations. As a consequence, the Council appointed the current Managing Director of SportAccord Convention, Mr. Nis Hatt, as Managing Director of SportAccord. 
    Further, Mr. Philippe Gueisbuhler has been appointed as Head of Administration, overseeing the administration of both SportAccord and SportAccord Convention, and Mr. Michel Filliau as Senior Advisor to the SportAccord President in charge of Membership Relations. Mr. Matteo Vallini continues to lead the Doping-Free Sport Unit (DFSU) within SportAccord.
    The SportAccord Council also took the decision to create Working Groups to analyse the feasibility of hosting specialised Multi-Sport Games in the future. 
    Source: SportAccord Convention

     

  • SportAccord Convention bid city process for 2019 and 2020 gets underway

    SportAccord Convention bid city process for 2019 and 2020 gets underway

    [SOURCE: SPORTACCORD CONVENTION] SportAccord Convention on 18th February launched its bid city application process for the 2019 and 2020 Conventions. Potential bid cities are invited to submit their ideas and proposal by Wednesday, 1 March 2017.
    SportAccord Convention is the world’s premier and most exclusive annual event at the service of sport. Held in a different city each year, the Convention takes place over six days and is focused on driving positive change internationally and dedicated to engaging and connecting; international sports federations, rights holders, organising committees, cities, press and media, businesses and other organisations involved in the development of sport.
    The SportAccord Convention is a not-for-profit organisation which annually brings together representatives from more than 100 International Sports Federations affiliated with the following umbrella organisations that host their Annual General Assemblies at the SportAccord Convention. These include:

    SportAccord
    ASOIF (Association of Summer Olympic International Federations)
    AIOWF (Association of International Olympic Winter Sports Federations)
    ARISF (Association of IOC Recognised International Sports Federations)
    AIMS (Alliance of Independent Recognised Members of Sport) and Associate Members

    In addition, the SportAccord Convention receives the full support of the International Olympic Committee.
    The Convention provides organisations involved in the development and business of sport with a unique opportunity to meet and network on a global scale with over ninety percent (90%) of the delegation being key decision-makers. The majority of delegates, partners and exhibitors return each year, ensuring the Convention is part of their business strategy, thus helping towards achieving their goals and objectives. On top of this, SportAccord Convention works closely with the media worldwide, who delivered more than 1,500 unique news stories across all media platforms during the SportAccord Convention held in Lausanne last year.
    Mr. Nis Hatt, Managing Director, SportAccord Convention said, “We are looking for cities who will help to deliver an outstanding Convention and continue to build on the successes of previous Conventions. Cities are encouraged to look at creative ways to provide the facilities and services needed to host the Convention and welcome the sports community coming from all corners of the globe.” Hatt continued, “It goes without saying, hosting the SportAccord Convention also provides outstanding opportunities for cities in a unique setting.”
    This year, SportAccord Convention is taking place in Aarhus, Denmark, nominated the European Capital of Culture for 2017. A vibrant city and passionate about sport, this accolade, together with the Cultural Programme of events unfolding throughout the year, will certainly help to make the 15th edition of the SportAccord Convention, a special one.
    Previous host cities include Madrid, Lausanne, Berlin, Seoul, Beijing, Athens, Denver, Dubai, London, Quebec City, Saint Petersburg, Belek/Antalya and Sochi.
    Further information can be found on the website at the following link. This includes the Bid City Application Information Pack as well as details outlining the Host City Bid and Selection Process.
    Bid cities interested in hosting the Convention in 2019 or 2020 should contact Nis Hatt, Managing Director, SportAccord Convention, nis.hatt@sportaccordconvention.com to register their interest and submit their Bid City Application Form by Wednesday, 1 March 2017.
    For more information about the SportAccord Convention: www.sportaccordconvention.com
    [SOURCE: SPORTACCORD CONVENTION]

  • Sports Bureau of Macao SAR Government returns as Gold Partner for SportAccord Convention 2017

    Sports Bureau of Macao SAR Government returns as Gold Partner for SportAccord Convention 2017

    [Source: SportAccord Convention] SportAccord Convention today announced the Sports Bureau of Macao SAR Government will be a Gold Partner again for this year’s 15th edition taking place from 2 – 7 April 2017 in the waterside city of Aarhus Convention Center in Denmark.
    Commenting on its Gold Partnership, Mr Pun Weng Kun, President of Sports Bureau of Macao SAR Government said, “We are honored to return again as one of the Gold Partners, as we look forward to enhancing Macau’s profile as an active sport city, making contributions to the positive growth and development in the global sport industry and being a significant part of the success of the SportAccord Convention.”
    The Sports Bureau of Macao SAR Government seeks to promote sport at all levels with athletes and citizens alike. It focuses on creating the necessary conditions for the development of sport and plays an active role between sports associations as well as encouraging citizens to lead a healthy lifestyle, promoting the positive message, “Let’s exercise for our health” as a good habit.
    Nis Hatt, Managing Director of SportAccord Convention said, “We are pleased to welcome Macau for their tenth anniversary year as a Gold Partner. Their strategy and objectives for enabling people to participate in sport from grassroots to elite levels, as well as hosting international sport events, makes Macau a key contender as an international sports destination.” Hatt went on to say, “With interest high for this year’s Convention, as well as Aarhus being on the radar of many organisations around the world as European Capital of Culture for 2017, we’ve seen a sharp rise in registrations to take advantage of this halo.”
    Held in a different city every year, the annual SportAccord Convention is a unique opportunity for key decision-makers from sport and industry to meet, network and strategically shape global, regional and national agendas. An exclusive 6-day event with 1500 delegates expected to attend in just under 6 weeks, organisations who want to take advantage of the world’s premier and most exclusive annual event and get involved in the business of sport, are registering as exhibitors or delegates daily at www.sportaccordconvention.com.
    The SportAccord Convention is also host to annual general meetings of governing bodies, will welcome a delegation from the International Olympic Committee, and its 3-day conference programme focused on ‘Innovation In Action’ promises to share cutting edge business ideas and fire the imagination of delegates.

  • #SAC2017 reveals additional sessions and speakers for “Innovation in Action” plenary conference including Tom Glick from Manchester City FC

    #SAC2017 reveals additional sessions and speakers for “Innovation in Action” plenary conference including Tom Glick from Manchester City FC

    LAUSANNE, Switzerland – SportAccord Convention today provided an update on the Plenary Conference programme ‘Innovation in Action’ including speakers, additional sessions, and partners. SportAccord Convention will be held from 2 – 7 April 2017 at the Scandinavian Center in Aarhus, Denmark, this year’s European Capital of Culture.
     
    With sport being the fastest growing sector in the entertainment industry, it also holds a unique place in the hearts and minds of supporters. Thanks to our Top Media Partner Dow Jones, Tom Glick, CCO of City Football Group will share his insights into how the club has opened the door to innovation, to build loyalty and grow support as well as commercial success, in a scene setter focused on ‘Innovation in the Business of Sport’.
     
    Commenting on the Group’s strategy, Tom Glick said, “At Manchester City and all our City Football Group clubs, we have a passion for innovation and for connecting with our fans everywhere in the world; whether in stadium or wherever they follow our clubs. Our fans are increasingly global, increasingly digital and increasingly mobile and we are delighted to be working with world-class partners who are helping us to find new ways to engage them.”
     
    Continuing the theme ‘Innovation in the Business of Sport’, a panel will consider the risks of moving too fast for fans, balanced against the dangers of getting caught up in the wake of other, faster moving clubs, sports, and competitions. The session will address how sponsor engagement, digital, data and in-stadium technology, enables sport disciplines to deliver even more to meet fan expectations and draw so much more in return.
     
    The Panel lineup includes:

    Ishveen Anand, Founder & CEO, OpenSponsorship
    David de Behr, Head of Sales, Major Events Division, Aggreko
    Tom Glick, CCO, City Football Group
    Fiona Green, Director & Co-Founder, Winners

     
    The Panel for the session focused on ‘Innovation – A permanent change revolution, or an opportunity to reset your sport?’ is now confirmed and will look at how sports are using innovative approaches within their specific disciplines to advance both the sport itself as well as expand who is able to participate.
     
    Panel members includes:

    Mark Barfield, Technical Manager, UCI
    Johannes Holzmüller Head of Football Technology Innovation Department, FIFA 
    Angela Ruggeiro, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Sports Innovation Lab and Chair of IOC Athletes’ Commission
    Chris Wells, Communication Manager, World Archery

     
    David Eades, Journalist and Anchor for BBC World will moderate the sessions. Further details of the Plenary Conference as well as the LawAccord programme can be found at www.sportaccordconvention.com.
     
    SportAccord Convention is the world’s premier and most exclusive annual event at the service of sport. It is focused on driving positive change internationally and dedicated to engaging and connecting; international sports federations, rights holders, organising committees, cities, press and media, businesses and other organisations involved in the development of sport. The Convention is host to annual general meetings of governing bodies as well as bid cities, and once again, will welcome a delegation from the International Olympic Committee.

  • SportAccord Convention unveils plenary conference programme ‘innovation in action’

    SportAccord Convention unveils plenary conference programme ‘innovation in action’

    LAUSANNE, Switzerland – SportAccord Convention has announced first details of the Plenary Conference programme ‘Innovation in Action’ taking place in this year’s European Capital of Culture, Aarhus, Denmark from 2–7 April 2017.
     
    SportAccord Convention is the world’s premier and most exclusive annual event at the service of sport. Held in a different city each year, the Convention takes place over six days and is focused on driving positive change internationally and dedicated to engaging and connecting; international sports federations, rights holders, organising committees, cities, press and media, and organisations involved in the business of sport.
     
    “We have a great event lined up for delegates at this special 15th anniversary edition of the SportAccord Convention and we’ll see a number of speakers make their debut at the Plenary Conference,” said Nis Hatt, Managing Director, SportAccord Convention. “Innovation is at the hub of any successful organisation and this year’s conference programme will enable delegates to explore and experience the innovative ways business leaders are making decisive decisions to keep their organisations ahead of the game and in the hearts and minds of fans.”
     
    Day 1 will kick-off with a keynote to address why organisations must innovate to remain relevant. This will follow with a conference session examining whether innovation is a permanent change revolution or an opportunity for organisations to reset their sport. Other sessions will focus on the business of sport and includes how one English Premier League football club opened the door to innovation, to build loyalty and grow support, as well as commercial success. A panel will consider the risks of moving too fast for fans, balanced against the dangers of getting caught in the wake of other, faster moving clubs, sports and competitions. Delegates will also hear how some International Sports Federations have used innovation to great effect in their sport discipline.
     
    Day 2 will begin with a presentation from Tokyo 2020 on their plans for hosting the next Games and why it will be the most futuristic sporting event to date. Panel sessions will examine whether technology is a friend or foe when it comes to dictating the direction of sport and how organisations can embrace beneficial technological change and meet generational expectations without losing the very essence of sport. A technology health-check for the sports movement will also provide updates on key developments in the areas of digital and social media, wearable devices, 3-D and VR content, drones, and more, with experts who can share the latest technology, best practice and answer questions.
     
    The Convention provides organisations involved in the development and business of sport with a unique opportunity to meet and network on a global scale with over ninety percent (90%) of the delegation being key decision-makers and in a position to take action. The majority of delegates, partners and exhibitors return each year, ensuring the Convention is part of their business strategy. With over seventy percent (70%) of exhibitor space sold, and just under two weeks to go until the delegate pass is due to rise to CHF 2,500 on 6 February, organisations can become involved at SportAccord Convention as a delegate, exhibitor or sponsor and register at www.sportaccordconvention.com
    Source: SportAccord Convention

  • Cities shine in Silver Partner line-up for #SAC2017 in Aarhus

    Cities shine in Silver Partner line-up for #SAC2017 in Aarhus

    LAUSANNE, Switzerland – SportAccord Convention has announced its Silver Partners for the 15th edition of the Convention taking place from 2 – 7 April 2017 in the Scandinavian Center Aarhus, Denmark. This year’s Silver Partners include:
     

    Canadian Sports Tourism Alliance – created through a partnership with the Canadian Tourism Commission, CSTA has over 400 members including 142 municipalities and 200+ national and regional sport organisations, as well as product and service suppliers. One of its key objectives is to market Canada internationally as a preferred sport tourism destination.
    Edmonton Events – established as a strategic partnership between the City of Edmonton and Edmonton Tourism, is focused on attracting major events to the region. Edmonton Events provides a single point of contact, offering services and expertise from event inception, bidding and marketing, to operations and legacy.
    EventScotland – part of VisitScotland, and building on Scotland’s reputation as a major events destination, its refreshed vision is aimed at making Scotland ‘The Perfect Stage’ for events.
    Malaysia Major Events – a division of Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau under the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, MME was established to promote, facilitate and stage international events as the venue of choice for the region.

     
    Welcoming on-board this year’s Silver Partners, Nis Hatt, Managing Director of SportAccord Convention said, “We’re delighted to welcome our Silver Partners to this year’s special edition. As regional event and hospitality experts and hosts, they are well aware of the benefits and exposure SportAccord Convention provides them as a host city.” Hatt went on to say, “With Aarhus being the European Capital of Culture for 2017, this setting enables all our partners and exhibitors to really shine and take advantage of the opportunities and interest surrounding our event and the Host City.”
     
    Aarhus, the city that never sleeps, has a monumental year ahead with a cultural programme to keep everybody entertained. Filled with museums, and iconic buildings like ARoS offering panoramic ‘rainbow’ views, or the stunning new waterside library ‘Dokk1’, an ambitious project which successfully manages to marry two Danish cultural traditions – being accessible to all generations and social classes, as well as being functional within a beautiful design. The bustling streets are packed with independent shops, cafes and restaurants, where Aarhus (and the surrounding area) also hold the prestigious title of European Region of Gastronomy 2017.
     
    Over one thousand organisations attend the SportAccord Convention to network and discuss the business of sport. With just under one week to go before the delegate pass rises to CHF 2,500, and the exhibition proving as popular as ever with 85% of booths now sold, organisations still considering whether to become involved should take action and register as a delegate or secure a booth at www.sportaccordconvention.com. For those who would like to go the extra mile and benefit from this unique opportunity, a couple of Bronze partnership opportunities remain.
     
    SportAccord Convention is host to annual general meetings of governing bodies as well as bid cities, and once again, will welcome a delegation from the International Olympic Committee.
     
    The SportAccord Convention official schedule will also include a plenary conference, City Forum, LawAccord and MediaAccord and this year’s overarching theme is ‘Innovation in Action’. These sessions are intended for International Federations and organisations who want to get up to speed with the latest thinking, as well as hear the news and views of sporting leaders from around the globe.
     
    To become a delegate or exhibitor at SportAccord Convention register at: www.sportaccordconvention.com
     
    Source: SportAccord Convention

  • More than twenty cities gather in European Capital of Culture Aarhus, Denmark for #SAC2017 ‘City Day’

    More than twenty cities gather in European Capital of Culture Aarhus, Denmark for #SAC2017 ‘City Day’

    [SOURCE: SportAccord Convention] SportAccord Convention is delighted to share details of the City Forum which forms part of City Day on Tuesday 4 April, taking place at the Convention Center in Aarhus, Denmark, this year’s European Capital of Culture. This year’s SportAccord Convention will have well over twenty cities present, and the 2024 bid cities presenting their short introductions at the afternoon session of the ASOIF General Assembly.  
    The ever popular City Forum will focus on Legacy Planning and Successful Hosting Strategies. City Forum is intended for cities, International Federations, stakeholders, sponsors and service providers, who work together to host the best international sports events. Organisations who would like to take part in the City Forum and take advantage of City Day should register at www.sportaccordconvention.com before the delegate fee increases to CHF 3000 (plus VAT) on 15 March 2017.
    Jacob Larssen, Director of the Danish Athletic Federation will hit the ground running and share his insights on ‘Mass participation events and how to prioritise a city’s legacy’. The session will determine the event outcomes for cities that are most important to their community, sporting partners and stakeholders, and look out the best ways to communicate what they want to accomplish to these audiences.
    With cities under increasing pressure to deliver on their legacy agendas, the session, ‘Promises to Keep: The truth about Legacy Planning’, will examine what structures and safeguards can be put in place to keep the promises made during the bid city process.
    Commenting on this year’s City Forum programme, Don Schumacher, Executive Director of the National Association of Sports Commissions said, “Since its inception City Forum has offered content prepared specially for host city organizations. With the balance of SportAccord Convention focused on broader industry issues, the chance for cities and other governmental units to focus on mutual problems and opportunities makes it a highlight for me.”
    When it comes to hosting strategies, there are many dynamics for International Federations to consider when determining what to look for from a host city. The first Hosting Strategy session will discuss some of the key considerations for sports federations when they evaluate their requirements for a host city including technology, viewer and participant expectations, economics, the environment, and the sport themselves – which change regularly and sometimes dramatically.
    The concluding session at this year’s City Forum: ‘Think creatively as an event host,’ will explore how a city can best play to its strengths when bidding for and hosting events that are becoming larger and more complex with every passing year.
    Nis Hatt, Managing Director, SportAccord Convention said, “City Forum provides a unique opportunity to hear from industry leaders on a variety of cutting-edge topics, while interacting with city representatives from around the world. I consider it a must-attend event for any city engaged in bidding for or hosting a major sporting event.”
    City Forum will be preceded by City-to-City. This event is for cities and regions only and will focus on two subjects which have gathered momentum in recent months: (1) How cities can engage with their populations regarding hosting events (2) Whether sport events really are a proper tool to help increase participation in a specific sport.
    SportAccord Convention is a high profile gathering of key decision-makers focused on the business of sport and building on the opportunities this brings. The 6-day Convention includes the Plenary Conference, LawAccord, MediaAccord, the Exhibition, as well as the Opening Ceremony and Closing Event.