IPEC 2024 was held in Greenville, S.C. Photo Credit: Matt Klinger, Mad Pix Pro
Northstar Meetings Group's 12th annual Independent Planner Education Conference has enhanced its educational agenda for 2025, with a rich roster of sessions designed exclusively for this critical market segment. IPEC 2025 will be held at the Hard Rock Hotel Atlantic City, Jan. 26–28, 2025. Hosted-buyer spots are filling up fast: Interested independent meeting professionals who are not affiliated with a large third-party firm are encouraged to apply now. Suppliers who would like to participate can also indicate their interest.
In response to extensive input from participant surveys and the IPEC Advisory Board, this year's event will feature free consultations with a leading industry business consultant, expert financial advice for small-business owners, employees and contractors, a social-media marketing workshop and more.
Following are highlights of the educational agenda.
- "Turn Up the Volume: How to Amplify Your Business Success," presented by Mark Kamp, CEO of Millenia Productions, sponsored by The Opal Collection.
In this energizing opening keynote, "Marvelless Mark" empowers independent professionals to set, pursue and achieve big, bold goals with rock-star intensity.
- "Pitch, Price and Persuade: Sales Skills for Eventprofs," presented by Beth Surmont, vice president of event strategy and design for 360 Live Media
In this interactive workshop, you'll learn to identify your unique communication style, refine your pitch and practice your negotiation skills.
- "IPEC Team Anthem," in partnership with SongDivision
IPEC participants will create a team anthem — an original song written in real-time with world-class musician Angus Clark, who performs with legends like Cher, Queen and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.
- "LinkedIn Strategies for Branding and Selling," presented by Kurt Shaver, founder of Linked In to Meetings
Learn to make LinkedIn your most powerful tool for branding, marketing and lead generation in this session targeted to independent meeting planners and suppliers.
Free bonus offering: IPEC Business Growth Bookcamp
After the general program concludes on Jan. 28, buyers have the option to stay for a free, half-day IPEC Business Growth Bootcamp for more intensive education, as follows.
Eric Rozenberg"Building a More Efficient Meeting Planning Business," presented by Eric Rozenberg, president and CEO of Event Business Formula
Leading business consultant Eric Rozenberg will share proven strategies for running your business more efficiently, increasing profitability, and freeing up time for high-level strategy and client engagement.
Robert Brokamp"Financial Strategies for Independent Planners," presented by Robert Brokamp, personal finance expert at The Motley Fool
Gain practical insights to boost your financial stability and secure your future, whether you're just starting out or preparing for a prosperous retirement.
- "How We Price; What We Earn," presented by Loren Edelstein, vice president and content director, Northstar Meetings Group
Discover how your pricing strategies and income compare to other independent meeting professionals, as revealed in an exclusive Northstar survey.
- "Independent Planner Pricing Workshop," presented by Eric Rozenberg
With expert coaching, participants will reassess their pricing models, income goals and service offerings, and develop a personalized strategy to boost 2025 revenue.
Registration for IPEC 2025 is now open for both buyers and suppliers.