IMEX America, the annual exhibition for the global business events industry, has kicked off in Las Vegas this week, with some 4000 qualified buyers expected to attend.

Taking place on 10-12 September at Sands Expo and Convention Center, the event promises more innovation and inspiration than ever before.

There’s also an increase in exhibitors across the board including suppliers from hotels, the USA and Canada, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and the technology sector.

“We evolve IMEX America every year, with new features and learning opportunities reflecting current trends,” said IMEX Group CEO Carina Bauer.

“However, the core of the show remains constant – with business meetings, new deals and industry contacts powering the busy three days of the show.”

The show kicked off with Smart Monday, powered by MPI, a free professional education program for planners and exhibitors at all stages of their career. Aartist Phil Hansen launched the program with his MPI keynote ‘Embrace the shake: transforming limitations into opportunities’, looking at how failure can become a source of inspiration rather than defeat.

Dive into discovery

Attendee demand for all things experiential is changing the landscape for business events. IMEX America’s new Discovery Zone is packed with experiences to fire up the imagination and inspire planners to explore new approaches. It includes brain art, AR, mountain-themed challenges, mystery tattoos as well as live music and meditation.

Finally, there are countless opportunities to connect—from the glamour of the MPI Foundation Rendezvous to sweating it out on the #IMEXrun or at daily, soulful yoga and movement classes.

“We work closely with our partners to create an event that brings together and champions the global business events sector, driving business connections and professional development,” said Bauer.

“We’re looking forward to an exceptionally busy and productive week with a high number of appointments and business firmly on the agenda.”