If you are interested in furthering your career in the event planning industry, then you are most likely going to consider joining the Meeting Professionals International.
On this page we will provide a full review of the MPI where we will cover:
- What is the MPI?
- What do they do?
- What are the benefits of joining the MPI?
- How to get the most from your membership
What is the MPI?
Meeting Professionals International (MPI) is the largest and most influential meeting and event industry association worldwide. Founded in 1972, MPI is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting event planning professionals in their career development by providing access to best practices, education, and networking opportunities.
With a global community of 60,000 meeting and event professionals, including 15,000 engaged members, MPI has a strong presence in the industry. The organization boasts nearly 70 chapters and clubs, with members in more than 70 countries worldwide. This extensive network allows professionals to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge with peers from diverse backgrounds and specializations.
MPI’s primary focus is on delivering innovative and relevant education that empowers its members to visualize and execute exceptional experiences. The organization provides actionable insights and leadership that enable professionals to stay ahead of industry trends, reexamine preconceptions, and drive positive change in the world through the events they plan.
As the voice of meeting and event professionals around the world, MPI actively advocates for the industry, highlighting its significant economic impact and promoting its growth. The organization serves as a go-to resource for professionals at every stage of their careers, offering valuable support, resources, and opportunities for skill development and career advancement.
By joining MPI, event planning professionals gain access to a wealth of benefits, including educational programs, networking events, business exchanges, and industry recognition. The organization’s commitment to empowering its members to become agents of change positions it as a global thought leader in the meeting and event industry.
What does the MPI do?
Meeting Professionals International (MPI) offers a wide range of services and resources to support event planning professionals in their career development and help them stay ahead of industry trends.
Education and Professional Development
MPI provides comprehensive education through the MPI Academy, which offers hundreds of hours of free training for MPI members.
The academy features live and on-demand instructor-led courses, webinars, and certificate programs, covering various topics related to meeting and event planning, as well as project management.
These educational resources help professionals acquire the skills necessary for their current roles and prepare them for future career opportunities.
Industry Research and Trends
MPI conducts and publishes quarterly research, such as the Meetings Outlook report in The Meeting Professional magazine, to provide members with actionable data and insights on the latest trends affecting the event planning industry.
This research helps professionals make informed decisions related to budgets, attendance, and business conditions, enabling them to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of business events effectively.
Networking Opportunities
MPI organizes networking events worldwide, allowing event professionals to connect, share insights, and discuss the most pressing topics in event planning and project management.
These events provide valuable opportunities for members to learn from one another, build relationships, and collaborate on projects.
Grants, Scholarships, and Research Funding
The MPI Foundation, a not-for-profit organization associated with MPI, provides grants, scholarships, and funds for pan-industry research to support the global meeting and event industry.
These initiatives help foster innovation, encourage professional development, and contribute to the overall growth of the industry.
Career Support
MPI delivers value to its members at every stage of their careers, offering ongoing support and resources to help them succeed and advance in their roles.
Many members remain actively involved with MPI for decades, benefiting from the organization’s commitment to their long-term career development.
Benefits of joining the MPI
If you are interested in joining the MPI, here are 7 key benefits you should consider:
1. Networking Opportunities
One of the primary benefits of joining MPI is the opportunity to network with experienced professionals who are already excelling in their careers.
For those just starting out in the event planning industry, building a strong network and learning from industry veterans is crucial.
MPI members have reported that their involvement with the organization has opened doors to a wealth of knowledge and ideas by connecting them with industry visionaries.
Local MPI chapters provide opportunities to advance, grow, and lead in ways that may not be available through one’s current job.
2. Professional Development
MPI offers industry-leading professional development through the MPI Academy, which provides education and certificate programs designed to enhance critical job skills.
Unlike other education providers that offer DIY lessons, MPI provides a structured career path.
The academy offers ongoing education, including courses, webinars, and on-demand learning resources, allowing members to stay up-to-date with the latest strategies and techniques for successful event planning.
3. Access to Best-in-Class Resources
As an MPI member, you gain access to best-in-class speakers, leading industry suppliers, and a wide range of resources.
This access provides valuable insights into key trends and hot-button issues facing the meeting and event industry, enabling you to develop more effective plans and budgets.
Additionally, MPI offers tools to help you find meeting and event destinations, venues, professional speakers, and other essential resources.
4. Reliable Supplier Network
Finding reliable and competent suppliers can be time-consuming and stressful. MPI membership grants access to a vetted network of suppliers, ensuring that you work with the right people and minimizing the risk of partnering with unreliable vendors.
5. Global Connections
MPI provides opportunities to network with meeting professionals from around the world, allowing you to expand your professional circle and gain insights from diverse perspectives. MPI also works with top speakers bureaus and entertainment agencies to help you book the best talent for your events.
6. Career Advancement
No professional investment delivers more value than an MPI membership. MPI provides an unparalleled level of growth and advancement, both personally and professionally. The connections you make through MPI could lead to lifelong friendships, as well as new job opportunities, mentorships, and partnerships.
7. Return on Investment
By joining MPI, you will become a highly skilled meeting and event professional, equipped with the latest knowledge and tools to effectively plan and deliver meetings and events that support your organization’s strategic business plan.
The return on your investment in an MPI membership is a more successful and fulfilling career in the event planning industry.
Costs & Features
The cost of joining the MPI ranges from $345 to $515 per year as it is an annual membership.
There is a $50 application fee.
You should also be aware that if you want to take some of their career courses, you will need to pay extra for those.
Here are some of the features that come with membership depending on the level you select:
- 24/7 On Demand Professional Development
- MPI Weekly Newsletters
- MPI Industry Research
- Member Rate for MPI Global Events
- The Meeting Professional®
- Full Access to the MPI Community Forums
- Member Directory Listing and Access
- Access to Global Marketplace
- Local Chapter Affiliation
- Discount at Chapter Events
- VIP Access at MPI Signature Events (when available)
- MPI Signature Event Virtual Pass
- Advanced copy of Meetings Outlook
- Advanced Job Board Notice
- 10% off registration to MPI Experiential Events, if qualified
- 10% discount on Academy programs (CMM and CMP excluded)
- 10% discount on WEC and other MPI Global Events
- Advanced reservations to annual Coaches Corner at WEC (when available)
- Advanced reservation for complimentary professional headshots during WEC (when available)
Contact the MPI
Web: mpi.org
Become a member: mpi.org/membership/join
Facebook: facebook.com/MPI/
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (972) 702-3030