IAEE and TSNN Forge Multi-Year Partnership
August 28, 2024
In a groundbreaking move set to elevate the exhibitions and events industry, the International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) and Trade Show News Network (TSNN) have solidified a multi-year strategic partnership during Connect Marketplace, creating a powerful collaboration that will shape the industry through 2026. This is not just a partnership—it's a deliberate, strategic alliance that will define the future of the exhibitions industry.
Kicking off with a co-located, spectacular awards program at The Novo on December 16 during Expo! Expo! IAEE’s Annual Meeting and Exhibition® in Los Angeles, this collaboration will celebrate the industry's finest on a stage that's hosted legends, including the inaugural GRAMMY Hall of Fame Gala.
The partnership was announced on the Connect Marketplace main stage at the Baird Center by IAEE President and CEO Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed, CEM, alongside Informa Connect VP of Group Content Danica Tormohlen. This agreement builds on years of collaboration between two industry powerhouses, and for the first time, they will unite to co-locate and present dual industry awards programs. This historic moment signals a new era of innovation and excellence.
Representing more than 20,000 exhibitions and buyer-seller events across the globe, IAEE recognizes TSNN as a Visionary Sponsor, offering the media brand an elevated role at the annual Expo! Expo! This premier event, the heartbeat of the $90 billion U.S. B2B exhibitions industry (stat courtesy of CEIR), is the perfect platform to showcase our combined strengths.
For TSNN, this partnership is a monumental achievement. As the industry’s leading online news outlet covering exhibitions, trade shows, and events since 1996, TSNN will provide continuous, high-level editorial coverage and strategic support to IAEE and the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR). With a reach of more than 200,000 event professionals every month through our website, newsletters, and social channels, TSNN is uniquely positioned to amplify this partnership's success and influence.
"IAEE is pleased to partner with TSNN in this initiative that will benefit all members of our industry," said Flanagan. "Not only is collaboration among IAEE’s core values, but it capitalizes on organizations’ greatest strengths in ways that allow us to collectively advance our industry more efficiently. Undoubtedly, this results in a win-win for all. And what better way of launching this program than at a shared awards ceremony where we celebrate the achievements of those we serve? It is a wonderful expression of the mutual respect we hold for our industry, and our appreciation for the professionals who strive every day to make it better."
“This collaboration showcases the best of what TSNN and IAEE have to offer—innovation, influence, and an unwavering commitment to driving the industry forward,” said Tormohlen. “We can’t wait to debut a reimagined, star-studded awards program together with IAEE at one of the hottest venues in the world in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Imagine a red carpet full of the industry’s leaders and rising stars, all gathering to celebrate excellence in the heart of L.A.'s entertainment district.”
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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