AIME (Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event) is the leading trade show for the business events industry in the Asia Pacific. It’s where global and regional event professionals, destinations, venues, and solution providers gather under one roof to connect, do business, and shape the future of events.
You should go because it’s more than a trade show — it’s a powerhouse of ROI, networking, education, and brand positioning, all set against the backdrop of vibrant Melbourne. It’s not just where the industry meets — it’s where the industry moves.
Expect a diverse crowd:
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Hosted Buyers: Corporate meeting planners, associations, incentive houses, PCOs, and agencies.
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Exhibitors: Destinations, hotels, AV/tech providers, DMCs, stand builders, and more.
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Visitors and Media: Local buyers, press, influencers, and global thought leaders.
The beauty of AIME is its international reach paired with a laser focus on Asia Pacific’s growth markets.
Think of the Knowledge Program as your mainstage, deep-dive thought leadership content — high-profile speakers, strategic panels, big industry shifts.
Meanwhile, Ideas Academy is more like your on-floor, snackable, practical learning stage — hands-on tips, innovation spotlights, and supplier showcases happening right on the show floor.
One’s built for inspiration and strategic growth; the other for discovery and fast action.
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Speaker: Usually through a formal callout or direct contact — you’ll need a bold idea, industry cred, and alignment with the theme.
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Sponsor: AIME offers customisable partnership packages across physical, digital, and hybrid touchpoints — from keynote sessions to lounges and signage.
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Media partner: These are typically confirmed pre-event through contra or content-driven deals, including interviews, ad space, or editorial coverage.
Want in? Reach out to the AIME team via the website’s Contact page or drop an expression of interest.
This one’s TBC until we get official updates — but if the 2025 show was anything to go by, expect:
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Expanded floor plans
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New international exhibitors
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Stronger tech + sustainability spotlights
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More immersive networking zones
Once I’ve got confirmation of new features, I’ll gladly update you!
This usually becomes available closer to the show (late Q3 or early Q4) on the AIME website or via the app. It’s typically an interactive map that shows:
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Who’s exhibiting
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Where they’re located
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Access to meeting booking tools (for hosted buyers)
The real magic happens when you plan ahead:
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Use the matchmaking platform to book appointments in advance
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Go to networking events like the Welcome Function
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Drop by lounges and experiences between sessions
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Be open! Even queues and coffee lines become mini networking moments at AIME
Here’s your unofficial cheat sheet:
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Set clear goals — meetings, leads, insights
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Download the app for schedules, maps, and connection tools
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Book your appointments early (especially if you’re a Hosted Buyer)
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Bring your business cards or QR codes
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Dress smart but comfortable — you’ll be walking a lot
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Be curious, bold, and ready to connect
📍 Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre
📅 February 2026 (dates TBC — likely mid-month as per usual pattern)
📝 Registration usually opens in October–November for general attendees and earlier for Hosted Buyers and exhibitors. Best bet? Sign up for the newsletter or follow AIME on LinkedIn for the latest.