The Baird Center’s new Sky View Terrace offers sweeping city views.

Don’t forget your leather jacket for the opening-night reception, when Connect Marketplace revs up the Harley Davidson Museum. Last year, the Milwaukee company celebrated the 120-year anniversary of the iconic American brand. 

The heart of Connect Marketplace: Hosted buyers and suppliers meet for timed appointments to get down to the business of meetings.

Among the speakers at Connect Marketplace 2024 is the insightful Michael Dominguez, president and CEO of Associated Luxury Hotels International. Dominguez will share his thoughts on today’s hotel-negotiation landscape and the secrets of a successful RFP process.

Industry veteran Julius Solaris, founder of Boldpush and recent inductee to the Event Industry Council’s Hall of Leaders, will lead a session called “The Present and Future of Events,” looking at the trends that will define meetings over the next 12 months.

Another session at Connect with strong takeaways for business-event professionals will be Ken Holsinger’s review of the latest Freeman Trends Report. The senior vice president, strategy, at Freeman will dive into data on exhibitor priorities and objectives.

Jason Dunn, CEO of the National Coalition of Black Meeting Professionals, will take the stage at Connect Marketplace to discuss practical strategies to incorporate diversity and inclusion into your events.

A free night on the Connect Marketplace schedule gives meeting professionals time to explore the city’s restaurants, hotels, and venues for future events. Looking for ideas, check out this city guide from BizBash.

Don’t miss the Connect Marketplace pickleball court, where attendees can show off their skills or learn more about this increasingly popular sport.

Celebrated rapper, DJ, and record producer Lil Jon will be the headline entertainer at the closing reception for Connect Marketplace.

MeetingsNet, BizBash, Trade Show News Network, and Corporate Event News—the four media brands aligned with Connect Marketplace—will be at the show. Look for our media booth and come say hello!