Editorial Note: Originally published in the April 2025 issue of Trade Show Executive magazine.
In thinking about this year’s ECA Legislative Action Day, the thought struck me that the trade show industry has never been more visible to policymakers in Washington, D.C. than it is today. This event has been our steadfast voice on Capitol Hill for over a decade, underscoring why advocacy is an essential investment in our industry’s future. Its effectiveness depends on the active engagement of every industry stakeholder, which is why I cannot emphasize enough how crucial it is for our community to unite with the Exhibitions and Conferences Alliance to help make our industry’s voice heard on May 29.
Today’s legislative decisions will shape our industry for years to come. The policy issues facing our industry such as tax reform, workforce development, international travel policies and digital advertising regulations, among others, have never been more complex – or more consequential. However, the power of our industry lies in our ability to bring people together, and this extends to our advocacy efforts. When we speak with one voice, lawmakers listen.
This year’s Legislative Action Day comes at a particularly critical moment as Congress is undertaking comprehensive tax reform, which could significantly impact our industry’s growth trajectory. We need to ensure that our perspectives on maintaining competitive business tax rates, preserving the tax-exempt status of non-profit associations, and protecting private equity investments in our industry are heard and understood by legislators.
Moreover, we are facing new challenges at the state level, with several jurisdictions proposing digital advertising taxes that could increase costs for show organizers, venues and exhibitors. These proposals demonstrate why we need to remain vigilant and engaged not just at the federal level, but across all jurisdictions where our industry operates.
The workforce development challenges facing our industry present another significant area in which advocacy can make a powerful difference. ECA is championing legislative solutions that would expand Pell grants to cover shorter-term job training programs and transform 529 college savings plans into career savings plans. These initiatives could help address our industry’s pressing need for skilled workers in areas like rigging, carpentry and electrical work, while also supporting professional development through programs like IAEE’s CEM Learning Program and other certifications.
As we approach Legislative Action Day, I urge fellow executive leaders to consider how they can contribute to these advocacy efforts. Whether it is by joining the ECA Advocacy Network, participating in its social influencer program, or hosting local policymakers at your events, every action strengthens our collective voice. On May 29, the trade show industry will have its best opportunity to meet face-to-face with our nation’s lawmakers and make a direct impact on the policies that affect our industry. Let’s make the most of this unique opportunity!
Remember, the success of our advocacy efforts depends not only on individual actions but on our strength as a unified community. When we come together on Capitol Hill, we are not just representing our individual organizations – we are representing an industry that contributes significantly to the global economy and facilitates the kind of face-to-face connections that drive innovation and progress across every business sector.
The challenges and opportunities ahead require an engaged and vocal industry community. I encourage you to mark May 29 on your calendar and join us in Washington for Legislative Action Day. Together, we can ensure that our industry’s voice is heard, our interests are protected and our future remains bright. The time to act is now – I look forward to seeing you there.
Chuck Grouzard
2025 IAEE Chairperson
Executive Vice President of Business Development, Creative and Design
GES
The post Advocacy Matters More Than Ever appeared first on IAEE.
