Conference Matters 142

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Utrecht, Heart of Health

Utrecht has the ambition to become the region that contributes most to a healthier and more sustainable world. In a way that not only the region can benefit from the solutions and inno vations, but the rest of the world as well. In Utrecht, businesses, governments and know ledge institutions work closely together on ‘Utrecht, Heart of Health’. Utrecht Congress Alliance One of the initiatives to contribute to the ambi tion of Utrecht is focussed on combining know ledge, skills and resources more collectively to attract conferences that match our shared ambitions. This collaboration, called the Utrecht Congress Alliance, is an action-oriented and gro wing collaboration between various stakeholders from various sectors: university, hotels, venues, province, municipality and more. Everyone within the Alliance contributes and works together to bring conferences to Utrecht. Special incentive fund There are of course also a lot of advantages for the organisers. For example, there is a special incentive fund available for congress organisers of non-profit organisations who want to orga nise their international multi-day conference in Utrecht Region. This fund has been made availa ble by the Province of Utrecht. Would you like to know if you are eligible for this fund? The Utrecht Convention Bureau is happy to help and give advice. Utrecht, rising MICE destination According to Monique Andre de la Porte of Utrecht Convention Bureau, Utrecht is praised for its authenticity and charm. The region is one of the rising stars of European conference and By Judith Munster

bility and compactness of the city, great variety of hotels and venues, the informal and ‘feel at home’ atmosphere makes Utrecht a unique (aca demic) destination. Beyond business, Utrecht offers plenty of experiences. While our city centre is easily navigable by foot, we are also the world’s #1 cycling city. You can discover Utrecht’s charm on a bike, but if you prefer a more leisurely way, you can navigate the historic city canals by boat. Whatever your preferences may be, we look forward to creating a memorable experience for all visitors. Welcome to Utrecht!”

event destinations. “In addition”, she says, “the city offers excellent and sustainable conference locations. We have hotel accommodations in various categories with good value for money. It’s no surprise we host the annual Dutch Health Week in Utrecht, along with other international congresses such as Future Green City World Conference, Global Leadership Exchange and the WHO European Healthy Cities Network Annual Conference.”

‘Feel at home’ atmosphere Monique: “The combination of excellent accessi

WHAT ELSE DOES UTRECHT HAVE TO OFFER? - Accessibility is key. Utrecht’s strategic location ensures easy access with a 30-minute train ride from Schiphol Airport as well as from Amsterdam city centre. - Walkable city Utrecht is a very compact city - Sustainable Venues Utrecht offers excellent and sustainable conference locations, reflecting our commitment to a greener future. - Legacy Utrecht boasts a rich legacy in life sciences & health, sustainability and IT.

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