Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA) is offering a grant to attract new international business events to Brisbane, with the return of the Lord Mayor’s Convention Trailblazer Grant program.

Nominations are now open for Brisbane-based events professionals to apply for a share of $30,000, with successful applicants granted up to $5,000 to attend an international conference within their industry to help them pave the way for Brisbane to become the host destination for future events.

BEDA chief executive officer Anthony Ryan said the international convention industry was rebounding strongly after two years of COVID travel restrictions.

“Brisbane is the ultimate global business events destination, with world-class hotels and facilities, an enviable outdoor lifestyle and the brightest minds across key industries, all on the doorstep of Australia’s greatest natural wonders,” Ryan said.

“Conventions and business events are vital pillars of Brisbane’s economy, with more than $113 million in economic impact through bid wins in 2019. Business events bring together industry leaders and experts from around the world, providing an incredible opportunity to exchange industry knowledge and expertise.”

The Grant program was launched in 2017 and has resulted in six bid wins over three years, generating an economic impact value of $7.5 million, prior to the pandemic. It has also generated 79 new bid leads and a solid pipeline of future business event opportunities for the city.

Applications close Sunday, 26 February 2023.