Italy's new national effort to combine the initiatives of public and private sectors into a single approach to promote convention and meeting travel to Italy was announced during BTC (Borsa Del Turismo Congressuals Ed Incentives), the meeting industry trade show held each November.

At BTC, a consortium called In Italia Networking Partners was launched. The independent conference organizers and full-service incentive marketing houses who make up the consortium are committed to sharing their expertise with meeting planners worldwide. The group of 12 professionals promises meeting planners complete proposals within five days. Members have expertise in organizing everything from healthcare congresses to symposia to corporate incentive programs. The 12th annual BTC (also known as the Meetings Conventions and Incentives Exchange), held November 4 to 6, 1996 at the Fortezza da Basso in Florence, Italy, attracted approximately 6,000 visitors, a 25 percent increase over 1995 attendance. BTC is second in size in European incentive and meeting shows to Geneva's annual EIBTM show, according to congress organizers.

Italia Networking Partners can be reached at 011-39-2-2562062; or fax 011-39-2-2593123.