The Fall 2026 Northstar/Cvent Incentive PULSE Survey, conducted in partnership with Phocuswright, reveals that incentive planners’ optimism is on the rise. More planners are booking programs than they were a year ago and budget expectations have rebounded, with increases outnumbering decreases by a ratio of 3 to 1.
Among other takeaways from the Fall 2026 survey:
- Security concerns and geopolitics posted the largest gains of any factor influencing destination decisions; they now rank alongside cost.
- Policy-related disruption is easing, with negative impacts down to 43 percent from 59 percent in April.
- More international groups are considering the U.S. for their incentive trips than they were a year ago.
For additional insights on incentive budgets, destinations, program measurement and much more, download a free copy of the Fall 2026 Northstar/Cvent Incentive PULSE Survey report.
About the Survey
The Northstar/Cvent Incentive PULSE Survey track changes in incentive planner sentiment and expectations each spring and fall. This research is used to assess how current challenges and trends are shaping the industry. It is produced in partnership with meetings technology provider Cvent, and as of fall 2026, includes research collaboration with Phocuswright, a division of Northstar Travel Group and the market leader in travel industry research.