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 Southeast 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.
Qualified Hosted Buyers Receive:
Complimentary Airfare + Accommodations
We handle all costs and coordination of your travel, allowing you to focus on preparing to get business done.
AI-Powered Business Meetings
You’ll meet one-on-one with only the event suppliers capable of meeting your unique needs
Top-Notch Networking
Our networking events are designed to facilitate deep and meaningful interactions that build lasting relationships.
Innovative Education
Receive relevant education and insights into local trends and challenges, connecting you with industry experts who know your market.
Hosted Buyer Qualifications
You may be eligible to attend Connect Southeast as a hosted buyer if you meet the following criteria:
- Located in the Southeast
- Generate 50+ rooms on peak
- Have the ability to rotate nationally and within the Southeast region
Hosted Buyer Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made within 30 days or 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 with booked transportation may 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.
Stacey Allen
IBM
This is THE Hospitality Networking Event to attend. Planners, buyers, suppliers, hotels come together to network, learn, have fun, and make some great partnerships for the future!
Events We Are Actively Recruiting For
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.
What is expected from a hosted buyer?
Upon completion of your hosted buyer registration, a member of our hosted buyer experience team will contact you to confirm your spot as a hosted buyer. Once you are confirmed, we will finalize your accommodations and travel plans.
Approximately two weeks prior to the event, you will be asked to enter the event portal where you will request appointments with your choice of CVBs, hotels, resorts, and service providers. Shortly after that, we will finalize and confirm your appointment schedule and you'll be provided with a schedule of pre-set appointments.
Please come to the event with business in hand, honor your appointment schedule, and stay for the entire event.
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 at no cost. Upon the successful completion of your pre-scheduled 1-on-1 appointments, your registration fee will be refunded.
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 participate in our education sessions and networking experiences. Please contact your hosted buyer representative to learn more about our group rates.
What if I don't want to take meetings?
If you want to attend a Connect event without committing to pre-scheduled Marketplace Appointments, we invite you to attend as a non-hosted buyer. As a Connect Buyer you will be responsible for securing your own flights and hotels.
Your registration will include:
✅ Entrance to Connect networking events
✅ Access to educational content
Still have questions?
If you have any questions about our Hosted Buyer Experience please reach out to a member of our team.
