Business Events Wellington, in collaboration with Tourism New Zealand, has unveiled the International Conference Leaders Fund, designed to empower local researchers and academics to take the spotlight in the global conference setting.

The fund addresses a significant obstacle for many university researchers: the limited funding available for engaging with international associations and participating in international conferences. By providing targeted financial support, the initiative will help researchers elevate their global profiles, cultivate international networks, and attract prestigious international conferences to Wellington.

“The strength of Wellington’s conference offerings lies in its exceptional research community,” says Irette Ferreira, Manager of Business Events Wellington. “This fund enables our local experts to shine on the world stage, bringing more international events – along with the knowledge, innovation, and economic advantages they yield – back to Wellington.”

The International Conference Leaders Fund aims to achieve three primary objectives:

• Assist academics in enhancing their presence within international associations.
• Align conference bids with Wellington’s strategic sectors: Science, Climate Action and Environment, Technology, and Screen.
• Increase the successful international conference bids led by Wellington’s researchers.

By investing in future conference leaders, Wellington is developing a robust pipeline of champions who will position the city as a premier destination for global knowledge exchange and collaboration.

Applications are now open until 21 November 2025. Researchers associated with universities who actively participate in international associations and are eager to lead future conference bids are encouraged to apply. Full application criteria and details can be found on the Wellington NZ website.

National support for local leadership Tourism New Zealand backs this initiative through its enduring partnership with Business Events Wellington. “Local bid champions are essential in drawing international conferences that foster knowledge sharing and economic impact,” notes Penelope Ryan, Global Manager Business Events at Tourism New Zealand. “We’re delighted to support this fund and nurture New Zealand’s next generation of global conference leaders.”

Margaret Hyland, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research at Victoria University of Wellington, also advocates for the fund, stating: “Wellington’s research community boasts a global mindset and a solid history of collaboration. This fund will provide our academics with the resources and confidence needed to lead international bids, attracting world-class events and new opportunities to the capital.”