We Didn't Invent the Hosted Buyer Experience, We Perfected It
Our industry-leading Hosted Buyer Experience revolutionizes the way buyers source suppliers and service providers.
The Connect Difference
Attend Connect South as a Hosted Buyer and revolutionize the way you do business. Unlike traditional shows, our reverse-style trade show format puts you in control of your appointment schedule. Handpick the cities, hotels, and service providers you're interested in meeting with, and let our industry-leading AI match system handle the rest.
You'll walk away with relevant contacts, an expanded network, and more signed RFPs.
The Hosted Buyer Experience
Airfare + Accommodations
As a Hosted Buyer at Connect South, we've got your travel and stay covered. No stress, no hassle—just more time to focus on what really matters: finding the best solutions to power your events.
Intentional Connections
Every interaction at Connect South is intentional. Our AI-powered, one-on-one appointments ensure you’re connecting with the right suppliers who can meet your specific needs. This isn’t just about filling your schedule; it’s about making valuable, actionable connections that will move your business forward.
Top-Notch Networking
At Connect South, networking isn’t just a buzzword. You’ll be surrounded by industry professionals ready to collaborate and make lasting partnerships. These aren’t just surface-level connections—this is where relationships are built that fuel long-term growth.
Innovative Education
Our cutting-edge education sessions are designed to equip you with the latest strategies, trends, and tools. From hands-on workshops to thought-provoking panels, you’ll leave inspired and ready to revolutionize your approach to events.
Alice Holden
Meetings and GVP Manager
Gold's Gym
I just want to say I had an AMAZING time at the Connect Spring Marketplace this week. The registration and appointment process was super easy and clear. I also went into the event thinking only about 30% of my appointments would be applicable to my current needs and I was pleasantly surprised that I could really use 70-80% of the companies I met within the next year.
Hosted Buyer Qualifications
You may be eligible to attend Connect South as a Hosted Buyer if you meet the following criteria:
- Located in the South
- Generate 50+ rooms on peak
- Have the ability to rotate nationally and within the Southern region
Hosted Buyer Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations made within 30 days of more in advance and prior to booking transportation can receive either a 100% refund OR credit transfer to a later event.
- Cancellations made within 30 days or less and transportation has been booked my not receive a deposit refund and must cancel transportation through Connect's Travel Services Manager.
- Cancellations made within 7 days or less prior to the event, with transportation being booked and appointment schedules being submitted, will NOT receive a refund and will incur a cancellation fee of the cost of one (1) hotel room night. Planners must cancel transportation through Connect's Travel Services Manager.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I qualify as a Hosted Buyer?
Each Connect event has unique criteria that must be met in order to qualify as a Hosted Buyer. Most events require the ability to rotate nationally and have at least 50 room nights on peak.
See the required qualifications for becoming a Connect Hosted Buyer.
What is expected from a Hosted Buyer?
Once approved as a Hosted Buyer, approximately two weeks prior to the event, you’ll be asked to enter the event portal and make appointment requests with your choice of CVBs, hotels, resorts and service providers. Shortly after that, we’ll finalize your appointment schedule and you’ll be provided with a schedule of pre-set appointments. Please come to the event with business in hand, keep your appointments with Suppliers, and stay for the complete show schedule.
How much does it cost?
When you apply for a Connect event, you’ll be asked to place a registration deposit (typically between $99 – $200, depending on the show that you registered for). If approved, we’ll provide your flight, hotel accommodations, and your registration fee is covered as well. Upon the successful completion of your pre-scheduled one-on-one appointments, your registration fee will be returned to you.
What happens if I can't attend all of my scheduled meetings?
No worries! If you already know that there are times you will not be able to take marketplace meetings, please let your Hosted Buyer representative know. Notifying our team ahead of time will eliminate any problems on site and ensure you have a smooth experience.
Can I bring my team?
Our Connect Group Registration allows you to bring members of your team to participated in our general attendee programming. Please contact your hosted buyer representative to learn more about our group rates, or contact a member of our team.
Still have questions?
If you have any questions about our Hosted Buyer Experience please reach out to a member of our team.
