International exchange, transparency in congress bidding and an invitation to Sofia marked the Bureau’s participation in the global gathering.
Bulgarian Convention Bureau, a full member of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) since 2017, participated in the association’s 65th Congress, held in Panama City from 8 to 11 November 2026. The Bureau was represented by its Executive Director, Teodora Jilkova.
The Congress brought together 1,293 delegates from 80 countries and more than 100 association executives, connecting convention bureaux, destinations, convention centres, hotels, organisers and event service providers from around the world.
CrossWorlds: new perspectives and collaboration
Under the theme CrossWorlds, the programme encouraged participants to explore ideas and partnerships beyond their own professional circles. Panama, connecting continents, oceans and cultures, provided a fitting setting for discussions about the role of international events in advancing exchange and collaboration.
Organisations including UN Tourism, IEEE and AC Forum contributed perspectives from tourism, technology and the international association community. Discussions explored how business events connect sectors, support knowledge exchange and create opportunities for destinations.
Professional interaction was central to the Congress format, with 60% of the programme dedicated to networking and building connections. Roundtables, interactive sessions and peer discussions enabled delegates to share experience and develop practical proposals.
Transparency as a foundation for successful congress bids
A particular contribution to this exchange was Teodora Jilkova’s participation in the working session on improving the international congress bidding process. As rapporteur for the table discussing transparency, she presented the group’s conclusions to fellow participants.
A central message was that clarity must begin before a bid is prepared. Associations should communicate which requirements are non-negotiable, who makes the host selection decision, and the criteria, stages and timelines governing the process.
Participants also emphasised the importance of a shared understanding of the business model, including the financial framework, responsibilities and expectations of each party. Particular attention was given to geographical and cultural differences when working across continents, and how these affect communication, planning and negotiations.
Other points included earlier information exchange and opportunities for smaller destinations to assess their suitability for congresses they might not previously have considered. Discussions also highlighted the importance of measuring congress success beyond hotel occupancy, taking account of the association’s objectives, the delegate experience and the contribution to the host destination.
For Bulgarian Convention Bureau, these issues have direct practical relevance to preparing competitive Bulgarian bids and improving collaboration between associations, local partners and event venues.
Value that continues beyond the event
The lasting contribution of international meetings was another important Congress theme. ICCA’s approach encompassed support for people and local communities, reducing environmental impact, and creating knowledge and partnerships that continue after an event concludes.
This perspective is equally relevant to Bulgaria. International congresses can support professional and scientific exchange, connect local organisations with global networks and create opportunities for future collaboration.
A new chapter in ICCA’s leadership
During the General Assembly, Christoph Tessmar, Director of Barcelona Convention Bureau, was elected ICCA President, while Carlotta Ferrari, Convention Bureau Italia, was elected as Europe’s representative on the Board of Directors.
Outgoing President Marta Gomes’ heartfelt address was among the gathering’s memorable moments. Appreciation for her leadership and contribution was accompanied by anticipation for the next chapter in the association’s development.
“See you in Sofia”: 19–21 September 2027
The collaborative spirit continued during I amsterdam Night: ICCAChella, an interactive team challenge combining creativity, teamwork and friendly competition.
The Central and Eastern European team took part wearing T-shirts carrying a special message: “See you in Sofia, 19–21 September 2027.”
The invitation highlighted important news for Bulgaria’s meetings industry: Sofia will host the ICCA Central European Chapter Meeting from 19 to 21 September 2027.
Hosting the meeting will give international industry professionals the opportunity to experience the capital’s potential, discover its congress and event venues, and meet the Bulgarian companies and specialists working in the sector. It will also provide opportunities to develop professional relationships and showcase Bulgaria as a destination for international congresses and business events.
Participation in Panama and the forthcoming meeting in Sofia form part of Bulgarian Convention Bureau’s continuing work to strengthen Bulgaria’s international presence and develop opportunities for the country’s meetings industry.
