Navigating IMEX America 2024: The First-Time Attendee Guide

Sep 13, 2024 Shruti Shah

Heading to IMEX America 2024 for the first time? You're in for an exciting experience!  

As one of the largest trade shows for meetings and event professionals, IMEX is packed with opportunities to learn, network, and discover the latest event tech. With so much to see and do, it can feel a bit overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This guide will help you navigate IMEX like a pro, with a focus on maximizing your time and exploring the best in meetings and event tech. 

IMEX America 2024 is taking place at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, from October 8-10. With over 3,500 exhibitors and 12,000 professionals expected, it’s a bustling event where you can discover tools, build connections, and elevate your career in the events industry. Let’s dive into how you can make the most of your experience. 

Why IMEX America 2024 is a Must-Attend Event

If you're interested in event tech, this is the place to be. The value of attending IMEX lies in its real-world approach to innovation. You’re not just reading about trends or listening to theoretical pitches—you’re seeing and interacting with the technology in action. IMEX brings you face-to-face with solution providers who are not only showcasing the newest tech but also offering practical demonstrations of how it can be applied to your events.

 

For first-time attendees, it’s an invaluable opportunity to catch up with industry trends led by the top players in the event sector. The curated selection of exhibitors and the diverse range of products on display provide an ideal learning environment, enabling you to discover new ways to improve your event strategies and deliver more value to clients. 

If you’re new to the landscape and looking for cutting-edge tools, high-performance features, or tech-driven innovations that are shaping the future of events, this is where you’ll find them. Whether you're interested in data-driven attendee tracking, immersive virtual platforms, or seamless hybrid solutions, exhibitors will be on hand to demo their latest products. IMEX America 2024 promises a wealth of technology-focused solutions, offering everything you need to stay ahead in a fast-evolving industry. 

 
Prepare for IMEX America 2024 

The overwhelming number of keynotes, educational sessions, and networking forums can feel daunting, especially if it’s your first time at IMEX, making it tough to decide what to attend and who to visit. First things first, make sure you download the IMEX America app. This will be your go-to resource to keep track of schedules, sessions, and meetings, right at your fingertips. 

Master IMEX America 2024 with These 4 prep tips:

1. Pre-Register to Save Time 

To ensure a smooth start at IMEX, pre-register. This not only saves you time and helps you avoid long lines but also gives you access to a range of IMEX tools and features. Once registered, use these tools to navigate sessions, floor plans, and additional offerings and benefits.

2. Set Clear Goals

Before arriving, it’s crucial to have clear objectives. Ask yourself: 

• What do you want to accomplish at IMEX? 
• Are you looking for the latest event tech solutions? 
• Do you want to discover new trends or connect with potential business partners? 
• Are you considering switching to a different event tech solution?

Identify your goals and create a list of must-see exhibitors and key sessions. Prioritizing what's most important will help you stay focused and avoid getting caught up in the whirlwind of options. 

3. Pre-schedule Your Meetings

Connect with exhibitors and attendees ahead of time, whether you are a hosted buyer or a buyer attendee. A meeting is a 30-minute session with an exhibitor booked by you, the buyer. If you're attending to explore event technology, pre-scheduling meetings will maximize your time. 
 
If you’re a first-time attendee and unsure about the IMEX Hosted Buyer Program, here’s a brief overview. The program offers a VIP experience with exclusive benefits, including pre-scheduled appointments, free travel and accommodation, and access to private events. Hosted buyers experience a more personalized visit and often enjoy more dedicated face time with exhibitors. 

Check your eligibility and how to apply here. 

Pro Tip: Whether you're a hosted buyer or a buyer attendee, you can book meetings in advance. Last year alone, 83,000 meetings were scheduled at IMEX. Planning ahead will help you hit the ground running and reduce any fear of missing out

4. Travel Light and Pack Right

You’ll be walking. A lot. Comfortable shoes are a must. Also, don’t forget essentials like business cards, a portable charger (your phone will be working overtime), and something to take notes on—whether that’s a tablet or an old-school notebook. These small things will make your life a lot easier during the event. 
 

Navigating the Show Floor 

Covering every inch of an event spread over acres is nearly impossible, especially if it’s your first time at IMEX. It’s easy to get stuck in one area or lose your way. That’s why having a plan is crucial. Here’s how you can stay on track:

1. Familiarize Yourself with IMEX America’s Layout

IMEX America is BIG. It’s important to get familiar with the show floor layout before you dive in. The event is broken up into different zones, and the Tech Hub is where you’ll want to focus if you're into event technology. Grab a floor plan when you arrive or download the IMEX America 2024 app to your phone. This way, you’ll know exactly where you need to be and when. 

2. Explore Event Tech Pavilions 

The Tech Hub is the main ground for all things event tech. Whether you’re interested in registration platforms, virtual event tools, event marketing tools, or AI-powered event planning platforms, this is where you’ll find cutting-edge solutions. Be sure to visit event management companies like Eventcombo at booth #C4570 for live demos. 
 
Also, keep an eye out for Tech Tours—guided tours that take you around the event technology exhibitors, so you don’t miss anything important. IMEX is your opportunity to do business with 3,300+ destinations, venues and suppliers from 180+ countries all in one place. 

3. Stay on Schedule and Make the Most of IMEX

Time management is everything at IMEX. It’s easy to get caught up in conversation at a booth, but try to stick to your schedule. If you have pre-scheduled meetings, be sure to leave time between them for walking the show floor and discovering something unexpected. 

IMEX 2024 Agenda Highlights  

1. Educational Sessions and Workshops

IMEX isn’t just about meeting exhibitors—it’s also a hub for learning. The IMEX 2024 agenda is packed with over 150 educational sessions and workshops, many focusing on the future of event tech Whether you're interested in ground-breaking keynotes, hands-on workshops, or one-on-one time with experts, the program has something for everyone. Some key sessions you won’t want to miss:

• Faculty Engagement Program

  If you're an academic teaching hospitality, event, or tourism management courses, the Faculty Engagement Program is a unique and free opportunity for you to connect with meetings industry leaders. You can discuss trends, explore new solutions and innovations, and share learning and best practices.

• IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum

  If you’re entering your final year of a hospitality, event, or tourism management course, the IMEX-MPI-MCI Future Leaders Forum is a unique and free opportunity for you to gain expert insight into the meetings industry.

• Tech Hub Panel
  

  Event tech enthusiasts can join Saroosh Gull, CEO of Eventcombo, at the Tech Hub Panel on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, from 11:30 AM to 12:15 PM. You’ll get a chance to discover how innovative event tech is transforming the industry through real use cases and insightful narratives.

2. Goal Centric Session Lineup

There are sessions curated for various goals, organized to make it easier for you to find the ones that best suit your needs.

• What’s on for agency planner - If you’re managing global teams for high-level events, this session is a must-attend. Engage with fellow professionals to explore evolving industry trends, break away from traditional practices, and rethink how business is done. 
• What’s on for association planners - Gather with fellow association leaders for a dynamic program that addresses the pressing issues impacting associations today. Take part in spirited discussions and learn from a panel of experts. This engaging event, in partnership with ASAE, promises to be both collaborative and insightful.  
• What’s on for corporate planners - Join forces with other corporate planners to share insider knowledge, exchange experiences, and collectively tackle current challenges. This session will provide real-world solutions and practical advice to help you overcome the obstacles you face in your role today. 
  

3. Keynote Speakers 

IMEX consistently brings in top-tier speakers, and this year is no exception. Expect industry leaders to share their insights on meetings, events, and the role of technology in transforming the industry. Each day at IMEX starts with MPI keynotes. These sessions will aim to provide a forward-looking view on what’s next for event planners and how to enhance the attendee experience. 

4. Networking Opportunities

Networking is at the heart of IMEX. Take advantage of scheduled networking events, including the Tech Hub Happy Hours, IMEXrun, MPI Foundation Rendezvous, and mentorship meetups. These are great opportunities to connect with industry peers and learn from others in the field. Each day, there are specific networking events—be sure to choose the ones that align with you. Make sure to check the registration or ticketing process for each. 

5. After-Hours Events and Entertainment 

When the day wraps up, Las Vegas is your playground. Many exhibitors host after-hours events, such as SITE Nite North America, and IMEX America Night sponsored by Caesars Entertainment which are perfect for informal networking. Plus, you’re in Vegas! Consider catching a show or dining at one of the city’s top restaurants to unwind after a busy day. 
 

Wrapping Up 

IMEX leads the industry because of the attention to the nitty-gritty details of the event's execution. It showcases how well you can utilize event tech to enhance the attendee experience.  

It is for this reason IMEX America 2024 is your gateway to discovering the future of meetings and events.  With a bit of planning, a focus on your goals, and a lot of energy, you’ll leave IMEX with new tools, valuable connections, and ideas that will elevate your events. Once you register, you can also take up 'Your Guide to Attending IMEX for the First Time' to get further in sync, Join the First-Timer Welcome Session to connect with fellow first-time attendees. It’s a great chance to sync up, start networking, and exchange insights before the event kicks off.  

Pre-book your meeting with Eventcombo for an in-depth walkthrough of our latest innovations and how we're transforming event management!