April 3, 2025 – Today marks Global Meetings Industry Day (GMID) 2025, an annual celebration emphasizing the crucial role of business meetings, conventions, trade shows, and conferences in the global economy. With an estimated $1.6 trillion economic impact worldwide, the meetings and events sector plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration, driving innovation, and supporting millions of jobs.

According to the U.S. Travel Association, meetings-related travel in the United States alone generated $126 billion in spending in 2024, directly supporting 620,000 jobs. Industry leaders, including Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of U.S. Travel, and Bill Hornbuckle, CEO of MGM Resorts International, have reiterated the vital role of in-person gatherings in advancing business and professional relationships.

"In-person gatherings are the heartbeat of business and connection, indispensable to every industry," said Geoff Freeman.

The Power of Face-to-Face Meetings

Business events are more than just economic drivers; they are catalysts for innovation and professional growth. A recent Freeman report found that 95% of in-person attendees trust brands more after an event, highlighting the profound impact of face-to-face interactions. Another Hilton study revealed that 71% of professionals have met someone at a work event who significantly contributed to their career advancement.

From technology and healthcare to education and manufacturing, industries rely on conferences and conventions to build trust, foster collaboration, and exchange ideas that drive progress. Face-to-face meetings not only enhance business relationships but also provide essential revenue for hotels, restaurants, and local businesses, strengthening regional economies.

GMID 2025: Events and Initiatives

To commemorate GMID 2025, several leading organizations are hosting special events and activations:

• Hilton’s World’s Most Welcoming Events Big Idea Contest – Encouraging creative ideas in the events space.
• Meeting Professionals International (MPI) – A 12-hour live broadcast featuring industry experts discussing the impact of meetings.
• Industry Exchange 2025 in Chicago – A coalition of industry organizations, including Choose Chicago, hosting a networking event for professionals.
• New Orleans & Company Panel at Power Up: Women’s Leadership Conference – Connecting businesswomen to enhance career development and leadership growth.

GMID 2025 is powered by the U.S. Travel Association’s Meetings Mean Business Coalition, co-chaired by Martha Sheridan (Meet Boston CEO) and Stephanie Glanzer (Senior Vice President of MGM Resorts International).

As the meetings and events industry continues to evolve, GMID 2025 serves as a powerful reminder of the sector’s ability to fuel economic growth, foster meaningful connections, and shape the future of global business.