Be a conference and sports event ambassador

Key figures in Shannon region companies have pledged to become conference and sports events ambassadors.

An event in Dromoland Castle Hotel, hosted by Shannon Region Conference & Sports Bureau, in association with Fáilte Ireland and Shannon Chamber, sought to encourage a greater cohort of companies in the region to assess how they could bring a national or international conference, meeting, incentive group or a sporting event to the area.

Karen Brosnahan, business manager for Shannon Region Conference & Sports Bureau said, “The bureau ambassador programme is running for over 10 years and has over 500 members.  A local ambassador is anyone who can influence a meeting, conference or event. The bureau, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, offers a wide range of practical and financial supports to help ambassadors win business for their region. In 2015, the bureau secured €7million in economic impact between business and sports tourism with over 50% of events secured as a result of local ambassadors.”

Mary Collins, Meet in Ireland team, Fáilte Ireland said that business tourism is big business for Ireland.

”It generates €581 million in revenue, with each visitor contributing in the region of €1,400 per visit, and supports 20,000 jobs. Ireland is a highly regarded conference and events destination. It has breath-taking backdrops and world-class venues. It is value for money, has a fascinating culture and most importantly, getting here is easy.”

Shannon Chamber’s chief executive, Helen Downes encouraged their members to get involved.

“Bringing an event to the region can increase a company’s profile within their organisation. It might also help companies to secure future funding and establish worldwide linkages. They will be making a very valuable contribution to the economy as well as increasing exposure to Ireland as a leisure and business destination,” she said.