Judith Sloane, head of Meet Cambridge, sheds light on the many advantages of choosing an academic venue for conferences and meetings.
When planning any event, choosing the right venue is critical to success. Academic venues are a unique and often untapped resource for hosting conferences, meetings and events and that’s why these spaces are becoming increasingly popular among event organisers.
Inspiring Spaces: Academic venues naturally inspire an atmosphere of learning and innovation. The rich history and scholarly ambience can encourage creativity and stimulate intellectual discussions. Attendees are more likely to connect and engage fully with the content of the event in an environment that fosters curiosity and a thirst for knowledge.
Inclusivity: The majority of academic venues, certainly in Cambridge and other cities, are located centrally with excellent transport links, enabling attendees, local or international, to easily access the city and their host venue. In addition, many academic institutions are committed to inclusivity and provide facilities to ensure every person feels welcome and included.
Cost-Effective Option: Academic venues often offer competitive pricing which means that event professionals can allocate extra budget towards content, scholarships, speakers, and additional activities in the social programme. Even during university vacation periods, there are affordable accommodation options so you can stay within budget without compromising on comfort. Forget any notion of stereotypical student lodgings – many venues now offer upgraded bedrooms with double beds, en-suite bathrooms and standard amenities like tea and coffee facilities, toiletries, bathrobes and slippers.
Elevated Reputation: Hosting an event at a prestigious academic venue can enhance the reputation of the event and its organisers, adding credibility and attracting a higher calibre of attendees and speakers, as well as an increase in registrations.
Networking Opportunities: Academic venues often attract a diverse audience, including professionals, researchers, and students. This creates a fertile ground for networking opportunities where attendees can connect with like-minded individuals, establish valuable contacts and form potential collaborations which extend beyond the duration of the event.
Expertise and Resources: Academic institutions are home to experts in various fields. By hosting an event at an academic venue, event planners can tap into an institution’s pool of specialists who may be willing to contribute as speakers or panellists. Additionally, academic venues may offer access to secret resources such as private tours providing a unique backdrop for any event.
Commitment to Sustainability: Many academic venues are at the forefront of sustainability initiatives, aiming to reduce their environmental impact. From ground source heating to solar power and electric vehicle charging points, many venues are committed to eco-friendly practices. Keep an eye out for Green Meetings accreditation, a standard for sustainable events and showcasing the dedication of academic venues to environmental responsibility.
Outstanding Service and Standards: Many academic venues are members of the Meetings Industry Association, ensuring that they maintain high standards of service. These venues undergo rigorous scrutiny, with AIM Secure accreditation highlighting their commitment to professional meetings and event management.
The benefits of using academic venues for events, conferences and meetings are multifaceted. From providing an inspiring learning atmosphere to inclusivity, these venues offer a unique and enriching experience for both organisers and attendees. As the demand for distinctive and meaningful meeting space grows, academic venues are emerging as a top choice for those seeking to create exceptional events.
For more information, visit www.meet-cambridge.com
