The Exhibition & Convention Alliance (ECA) says the new Congress and presidential administration bring opportunities for policies that will drive growth in business events.
“When there is a change in any administration, whether it’s a shift in party control or the presidency itself, the first year is the best time to get things done,” said Tommy Goodwin, vice president for government affairs at the Economic Council for Europe. explain.
Since its founding in February 2021, ECA has been a leader in the exhibition and conference sector. With the current political transition, ECA is actively engaging with policymakers. It emphasizes the role of business activities in driving economic growth.
Business activity: a $426 billion industry
By 2025, the business events industry will employ 2.63 million Americans. In addition, it would generate $426 billion in spending nationwide, Goodwin said.
“2025 will be a critical year for the industry on Capitol Hill and beyond,” said Vinnie Polito, CEO of the Society of Independent Exhibition Organizers (SISO) and co-president of ECA. “As the industry’s unified voice, ECA will lead the way in ensuring our elected officials understand how they can best support the industry’s future growth.”
Main initiatives
The goals of the ECA 2025 Public Policy Agenda are:
tax reform
Advocate for tax laws that stimulate the growth of small businesses.
labor force develop
Support policies to attract and cultivate future industry professionals.
international travel
Promote reduction of visa waiting times and modernization of visa processing systems.
How to participate
The ECA Legislative Action Day returns in late May, bringing business leaders to Capitol Hill to promote these agenda items.
In addition, ECA recently launched a digital promotional network. It helps business event professionals connect with elected officials, engage with them on social media, and host them at events.
“Advocacy is critical to ensuring our policymakers support the industry on important issues,” said Marsha Flanagan, president and CEO of the International Association of Exhibitions and Events and co-chair of ECA.
ECA’s full 2025 Public Policy Agenda is available here.
