ICCA and the European Society of Association Executives (ESAE) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance collaboration and engagement across the international association meetings space.
Signed during IMEX 2025 in Frankfurt by ICCA CEO Dr. Senthil Gopinath and ESAE Managing Director Ioannis Pallas, the agreement affirms both organisations’ commitment to nurturing the next generation of association leaders and professionals, as well as contributing to one another's ongoing research and development efforts.
ICCA, which already has a robust programme in place to liaise with universities and members of the younger professional generation with ICCAUni, will further develop its student outreach programme with the support of ESAE.
A key focus of the agreement is outreach to students and young professionals, which aims to raise awareness of international association meetings as a rewarding and impactful career path. ICCA will engage with universities and colleges worldwide to connect students with experienced professionals from the association meetings industry.
ESAE has agreed to support this initiative in principle and will explore practical ways to contribute to its implementation, reflecting a shared vision to promote professional development and strengthen the global association ecosystem.
ICCA CEO Dr. Senthil Gopinath said: “This partnership highlights the importance of collaboration in building a vibrant, sustainable future for our industry. Together with ESAE, we are investing in the leaders of tomorrow and providing an exchange of ideas, research, and support that promises to enhance both associations' development."
Managing Director Ioannis Pallas said: "ESAE is delighted to renew its partnership with ICCA! Our two communities have a lot to gain from closer collaboration, knowledge exchange and promotion of best practices in the field of congresses and events. At a time of geopolitical turbulence and uncertainty, it is important for associations to serve as a safe space for our members and stakeholders to get together, promote common values, and innovate. This enhanced collaboration with the ICCA community will allow ESAE to provide our members with the most up-to-date knowledge on Congresses & Events, reinforcing the quality of operations for Associations throughout Europe."