When it comes to planning any type of event, choosing the right venue is critical to success. Academic venues present a unique and often untapped resource for hosting conferences, meetings, and events and Cambridge has lots of them! Meet Cambridge sheds light on why these spaces are becoming increasingly popular amongst event organisers; highlighting the myriad of benefits of using an academic venue.
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 experts who may be willing to contribute as speakers or panellists. Additionally, academic venues may offer access to unique experiences such as private tours which can provide a unique backdrop for any event.
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 Form potential collaborations which extend beyond the duration of the event.
Inclusivity:
Academic venues are often located in central areas with good transportation links. This ensures that attendees, whether local or international, can easily access the venue. Many academic institutions are committed to inclusivity and provide facilities to ensure every person feels welcome and included.
Cost-Effective Options:
Academic venues often offer competitive pricing which enable event professionals to allocate extra budget towards content, scholarships, speakers, and additional activities in the social program. Even during university vacation periods, affordable accommodation options are accessible, ensuring you stay within budget without compromising comfort. Forget any notion of stereotypical student lodgings! Many academic venues now offer upgraded bedrooms that include 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 can attract a higher calibre of attendees and speakers. In some cases where an academic venue has been announced as the host for the next conference, event organisers have seen registration increase.
Inspiring Meeting Space:
Academic venues naturally inspire an atmosphere of learning and innovation. The rich history and scholarly ambiance 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. Imagine in whose footsteps you and your delegates could be following!
Enhancing Event Experiences
Many academic venues have their own on-site auditorium that offers a multitude of benefits. All are specifically designed to accommodate large gatherings, providing an ideal setting for conferences, seminars, and presentations. Equipped with state-of-the-art AV facilities as a standard feature, they not only simplify event logistics but also elevate the overall experience for both organisers and attendees. Moreover, they typically include comfortable seating arrangements and optimal acoustics that create an engaging atmosphere, allowing speakers to deliver impactful presentations and fostering effective audience interaction.
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, these venues are committed to eco-friendly practices. Keep an eye out for Green Meetings accreditation, a standard for sustainable events, showcasing the dedication of academic venues to environmental responsibility.
Outstanding Service and Standards
Many academic venues are proud members of the Meetings Industry Association, ensuring that they maintain high standards of service. These venues undergo a rigorous accreditation process, with AIM Secure accreditation highlighting their commitment to professional meeting 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.
Image: Top: Robinson College - Auditorium