Event subvention can become a genuine lever for change
Updated: 7 days ago
September 24, 2025
A global survey reveals a gap between destination ambitions and the criteria that still guide their support programmes.
A survey conducted by Conferli with MEET4IMPACT and the Global Destination Sustainability Movement examines how destinations use subvention programmes to attract and support association events. The findings draw on responses from 115 destinations and 55 associations.
The central finding is a significant gap between intention and practice. While 91% of destinations want to use support mechanisms to drive positive change, only 6% report that they have fully embedded environmental or social criteria in their programmes.
Funding decisions still tend to prioritize traditional economic measures such as room nights and delegate spending. Associations, however, are showing greater interest in societal and environmental benefits, and several destinations expect to introduce formal sustainability requirements.
The report proposes repositioning subvention as a strategic tool. By linking support to impact goals, responsible procurement, sustainable mobility and local partnerships, destinations can encourage behaviours aligned with their priorities and create lasting value for communities.
