A new study published by The Hague and Partners Convention Bureau shows that while it is important event legacy is driven by the associations and not-for-profits hosting events, destinations can provide practical support and unique knowledge to help deliver lasting impact.
The research, (which surveyed association-focused respondents working to achieve a legacy or considering it), found that 22% believed the destination should provide “legacy project recommendations.”
Approximately 52% of respondents identified other practical support as being more important, with funding and investment (22%), staffing and resources (20%), and training and education (10%) being the top priorities.
The study also found that network development through introductions to relevant local stakeholders was the most important area of practical support providable by destinations, with 25% of respondents identifying this as a priority.
Bas Schot, head of The Hague and Partners Convention Bureau, said: “This research highlights the unique knowledge that destinations bring to the event planning process and their ability to facilitate connections that can help deliver a lasting legacy.
“During the research, destination and venue partners emphasised the importance of working collaboratively with organisers to help them deliver on their legacy goals. These included not just the necessary infrastructure to deliver an event but also more abstract requirements that might be considered days, weeks, months or even years after an event.
“Ultimately, this demonstrates the positive role that destinations can play in supporting event legacy, both in the short and long term.”
