NYC & Company Launches 'Commit to the Comeback' Initiative to Drive Local Meetings

As the meetings industry looks to get back to business, NYC & Company, the official convention and visitors bureau representing New York City, has unveiled a new initiative encouraging local businesses to book meetings within the city's five boroughs. Launched in connection with the New York City Economic Development Corp. and the nonprofit organization Partnership for New York City, "Commit to the Comeback: Meet Local NYC" invites planners to host meetings in the Big Apple and play a role in the city's economic recovery.

"New York City is the business capital of the world, sitting at the nexus of commerce, arts, media, sports, pop culture and entertainment," said Fred Dixon, president and CEO of NYC & Company and co-chair of the Meetings Mean Business Coalition. "By committing to meet local now, business leaders and planners can not only enjoy the only-in-NYC meetings experience, but also actively help the five boroughs reopen and get tourism industry professionals back to work, while restarting the economy and positioning the city for long-term success."  

The "Commit to the Comeback: Meet Look NYC" initiative was launched ahead of Global Meetings Industry Day, which is scheduled for April 8. As part of the campaign, NYC & Company has created online resources to help facilitate meetings business, including a Meet Local NYC Tool Kit and a list of 10 Reasons to Book Your Next Meeting in NYC. 

On April 2, the state will raise the gathering limit for in-person catered events to 75 percent of the particular area capacity, or 150 people indoors and 500 people outdoors, whichever is fewer (details here). Masks are required at all times, except when eating or drinking, and all attendees must have proof of a recent Covid-19 test result or proof of vaccination. The Javits Center has received GBAC Star accreditation in coronavirus cleaning and prevention. The Stay Well Pledge, launched last summer by NYC & Company, encourages the city's hotels, restaurants, attractions, museums and more to follow the strictest health and safety guidelines to help the city reopen safely.

"New York City is open for business," said Rachel Loeb, acting president of the NYCEDC. "As the country emerges from the pandemic, NYC is undoubtedly one of the best places to hold meetings and events. Along with our partners at NYC & Company and the Partnership for New York City, we want to encourage businesses across all sectors and industries to Commit to the Comeback and take advantage of all that the city has to offer."