Published on September 16, 2025
IBTM World, the global trade show for the meetings and events sector, has launched a revolutionary new initiative entitled IBTM Ignite. It is a new programme aimed at giving start-ups exclusive access to experience the expertise of experienced industry mentors and possible investors, encouraging creativity and innovation in the market. It is set to be an important hub for the future of event technology, sustainability products, and new event agency thinking. With this project, IBTM World is supporting early-stage concepts, diversity and new thinking, as a roadmap for the future of business events.

A Platform for Innovation and Growth

The meetings and events industry is constantly evolving, with new challenges, technologies, and solutions emerging all the time. IBTM Ignite serves as a catalyst for this evolution by offering a space where early-stage businesses and innovative concepts can thrive. This initiative is set to feature more than a hundred promising start-ups, representing various sectors, including event technology, sustainability, new event agency models, and businesses focused on inclusive talent sourcing. These companies will have the chance to showcase their emerging ideas to a discerning audience of industry experts and investors, gaining valuable feedback and potential funding.

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The program will take place during IBTM World in Barcelona, one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the global meetings and events calendar. The event will attract thousands of professionals from across the world, making it an ideal venue for showcasing cutting-edge innovations and connecting start-ups with the resources they need to grow.

The Structure of IBTM Ignite

The IBTM Ignite program will offer a dynamic mix of engaging formats, designed to maximize visibility and interaction between start-ups, advisors, and investors. One of the key elements of this initiative is the Future Stage, where 30 lightning talks will be delivered by emerging innovators. These talks will focus on the future of the meetings and events industry, presenting bold new ideas and innovative solutions. After each presentation, investors and advisors will provide immediate feedback, offering valuable insights that can help shape the direction of the start-up’s business.

In addition to the Future Stage, IBTM Ignite will feature the BEFuture Pavilion. This dedicated space on the IBTM World show floor will allow 30 selected start-ups to showcase their products and services directly to investors and potential partners. The Pavilion will act as a hub for innovation, offering exhibitors the chance to network and form valuable relationships with industry stakeholders who are eager to discover the next big thing in the meetings and events space.
Claudia Hall, IBTM World Exhibition Director, said: “The business events industry is entering a new era of transformation and innovation, and start-ups are leading this charge. It’s up to us as an industry to ensure they have the platform and the resources needed to develop their ideas, and to connect them with investors and advisors who can help them on their journeys.

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On the second day of IBTM World, the Ignite Lounge will provide a more intimate and informal setting for one-on-one meetings between investors and start-up founders. This space will allow for more in-depth discussions on critical business topics such as marketing strategies, financial planning, fundraising, and sales. Advisors with expertise in these areas will be on hand to offer their guidance, ensuring that start-ups can make informed decisions as they scale their businesses.

The Importance of Partnership with BEFuture

IBTM Ignite is being launched in collaboration with BEFuture, a project focused on driving positive change within the Business Events sector across Europe. BEFuture aims to support the development of sustainable and inclusive business practices within the events industry, ensuring that emerging companies have access to the right resources, advice, and network to succeed. Through this partnership, IBTM Ignite will have a powerful impact on shaping the future of the events industry, fostering innovation while promoting social responsibility and inclusivity.
The involvement of BEFuture is a key aspect of IBTM Ignite’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse events industry. By supporting businesses that focus on sustainability, diversity, and inclusivity, IBTM Ignite ensures that the industry is moving in a positive direction, with a focus on long-term value rather than short-term gains.

Expert Advisors Leading the Way

A distinguished panel of advisors will be playing an essential role in the success of IBTM Ignite. These industry veterans bring years of experience and expertise, making them invaluable resources for the start-ups participating in the program. Advisors include:

• Eva Lopez Alvarez from PUNTO MICE
• Lori Pugh from Meeting Professionals International (MPI)
• Max Fellows from Allpoints
• Sonia Serracarbassa from the Catalunya Convention Bureau / BEFuture
• Richard Morris from Active Media Events
• Julius Solaris from Boldpush

Each of these experts will lend their knowledge in specific areas, helping start-ups refine their strategies, navigate industry challenges, and connect with potential investors and partners. Their input will ensure that participating companies are well-positioned for success, both during and after IBTM World.
“Our new IBTM Ignite programme does just this. It is a destination for serious business growth, providing a platform for under-represented voices and creating new opportunities and connections. We are thrilled to play our part in fuelling the future of business events and look forward to seeing what this year’s cohort will achieve.”

A Vision for the Future

The launch of IBTM Ignite marks an exciting new chapter for the meetings and events industry. By providing start-ups with the opportunity to showcase their innovations, receive expert advice, and connect with potential investors, IBTM World is helping to shape the future of the sector. The program offers a unique blend of inspiration, education, and networking that will empower the next wave of industry leaders.
As the meetings and events landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like IBTM Ignite are crucial in driving innovation, fostering inclusivity, and promoting sustainability. By supporting emerging businesses, IBTM World is not only contributing to the growth of the industry but also helping to create a more dynamic, diverse, and responsible global events ecosystem.+
Sonia Serracarbassa of BEFuture and Director of Catalunya Convention Bureau, said: “At BEFuture, we work to future-proof the business events sector by advancing sustainability, inclusivity, resilience, and competitiveness through research, innovation, and cross-ecosystem collaboration. Our acceleration programme has supported 81 SMEs and start-ups that are at the forefront of this transformation. Partnering with IBTM Ignite further strengthens this effort, providing these initiatives with the visibility, mentorship, and strategic connections necessary to scale their impact and shape the future of business events.”
Overall, IBTM Ignite will be a game-changer for start-ups and entrepreneurs in the meetings and events sector. By giving birth to emerging ideas, allowing start-ups to mingle with industry gurus, and providing opportunities for meaningful networking, the initiative will be a catalyst for success, paving the way for the future of business events.

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Tags: Event Technology, IBTM Ignite, ibtm world, Travel Event news

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