Hosted Buyers at IBTM World
Hosted & Visitor Buyers
For event professionals who lead change.
At IBTM World, the world’s event leaders meet the people, places, and ideas shaping what’s next.
Through precision-powered matchmaking and meaningful conversations, we connect you with suppliers, destinations, and technologies built to elevate your events — and your impact.
Every meeting is matched with purpose. Every conversation is designed to move you forward.
What is a Hosted Buyer?
For senior event professionals shaping global experiences.
Our Hosted Buyer Programme gives you a personalised diary of pre-scheduled and self-scheduled meetings — connecting you directly with world-class suppliers ready to collaborate.
Flights, accommodation, and networking experiences are all included, so you can focus on building partnerships that deliver results.
Every Hosted Buyer meets strict criteria based on event scale, spend, and influence — ensuring that every conversation is relevant, qualified, and built for impact.
Application Now Closed
Apply Now to be a Visitor Buyer
What is a Visitor Buyer?
For event professionals who want flexibility without compromise.
Visitor Buyers can build their own meeting schedule — connecting with suppliers who align with their goals.
You’ll also have access to the full conference programme and networking experiences, giving you the freedom to explore, learn, and grow — all while creating the connections that matter most to your events.
If you are applying as a Fully Hosted Buyer, Semi Hosted, Appointment only or Visitor Buyer through the open Visitor form, please be aware the options will provide you with varying benefits.
All applications require vetting by our Hosted Buyer team.
Why attend as a buyer?
Work smarter, go further
Make every minute — and every meeting — count. In just three days, connect with the global business events community under one roof, turning your time and budget into real results.
Precision-powered meetings
Arrive with a full diary of pre-matched appointments — connecting you with suppliers who already fit your goals. Every meeting is relevant, focused, and built for results.
Stay ahead of change
See what’s shaping the industry right now — from emerging trends to new destinations. Leave inspired, informed, and ready to elevate your next experience.
Discover what’s next
Explore the tools, tech, and ideas shaping the future of events. Stay ahead of the curve and bring innovation back to your events.
We handle the details
Your time matters. As a Hosted Buyer, we take care of travel, accommodation, and your personalised meeting diary — so you can focus on the people and partnerships that move your business forward.
Build your momentum
Share ideas with peers, learn from industry leaders, and discover new ways to make your events unforgettable. Every conversation adds to your story — and your success.
Why apply?
The IBTM World Buyer Programmes connect you directly with the global meetings and events community — from world-class suppliers and venues to innovative destinations ready to help you deliver unforgettable experiences.
Our advanced matchmaking technology ensures your diary is filled with relevant, high-value meetings before you even arrive — designed to support your goals, your business, and your budget.
What's included?
Enjoy exclusive benefits that make every moment count:
- A personalised diary of appointments with your chosen suppliers
- Access to lounges and VIP networking events in Barcelona
- Invitations to the Welcome Party, Networking Hour, and Club Night
- Complimentary 4- or 5-star accommodation and return flights (For Hosted Buyers)
- Opportunity to join post-event destination tours
Need help to get approval?
We can help you make the case. Your Account Manager can provide tailored resources to demonstrate the value of attending IBTM World — from ROI breakdowns to approval letters for your manager or compliance team.
What are the next steps?
Step 1. Register your interest
To be considered for the Hosted Buyer Programme, you'll need to register your interest via the form on our website. If you are eligible for the programme, you will receive an email notifying you if you’ve been accepted and how you continue with your registration.
Step 2. Selection process (PSA)
Once you have been accepted, you will need to identify the exhibitors you’d like to meet with.
Step 3. Matching process
The IBTM World team will match your preferences with exhibitors’ preferences to generate your personalised diary.
Step 4. Self-Scheduled Appointments (SSA)
After the matching process is complete, you will be able to view all of your pre-scheduled appointments. You will then be able to use any remaining slots to schedule your own meetings.
Register as a Buyer
If you have all the information you need about our programme and would like to participate, register your interest now.
Not what you're looking for?
If you can't find the answer you are looking for, please contact our Customer Services Team who will be happy to help.