Four space-focused cities have come together to form an
international network focused on the growth of aeronautics, space, and
astronomy – and winning international conference business.
The Space Network was launched at the ICCA Congress, being held
in Abu Dhabi, this week, by its founding members: Montreux Congress, ChristchurchNZ
Business Events, Houston First Corporation, and Seoul Tourism Organization,
each representing a different continent.
The alliance has been designed to increase collaboration
across the space sector encompassing universities, research centres,
government agencies, industry and corporations.
Co-chair, Gerald Howard from Lausanne Montreux
Congress, said the initiative had already seeded three committees which
have begun collaborating – a scientific committee, a young professionals committee,
and a city committee, steered by the convention bureaux.
“Space is the mirror of humanity and of our community – a
quest for tomorrow. A world of exploration and innovation impacting a future
that needs support and guidance. Our community, working collectively with
Space experts can be one of the keystones of it, and the Space Cities Network
is there to help facilitate that” Gerald Howard says.
Howard said one of the initiative’s aims was to secure major
space-related conferences and said the founding members would be working together,
potentially offering organisers a ‘package’ deal that would see them rotating their
meetings between the four cities.
Historically space innovation, technology and exploration
has been a collective endeavour, with international space projects like Artemis
for example.
In the next decade the space economy is expected to grow to
$1.8tn.
“Houston is proud to join this international network,
leveraging our rich history in space exploration to drive innovation and
collaboration across the global space sector,” said Michael Heckman,
President and CEO of Houston First Corporation. “As a hub for cutting-edge
research and industry, we are committed to fostering partnerships that
will propel the future of aeronautics and space.”
Claire Hector-Taylor, ChristchurchNZ Business Events and
fellow Co-Chair, said: “Cities will play an integral, legacy role as hubs
for events supporting the space community, hosting conferences, summits, and
meetings that bring together industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers.”
Jin Hyeok Parks, Seoul Convention Bureau, added: “Seoul is
thrilled to be part of the Space Cities Network, as it offers great potential
for expanding business event opportunities in the space industry. By
collaborating with leading cities globally, we aim to strengthen international
connections and drive innovation. We’re eager to leverage this network to
attract more space-related events and conferences.”
Written By
James Lancaster
AMI editor James
Lancaster is a familiar face in the meetings industry and international
association community. Since joining AMI in 2010, he has gained a reputation
for asking difficult questions and getting lost in convention centres. Proofer, podcaster, and panellist - in his spare time, James likes to walk,
read, listen to music, and drink beer.
