ABPCO launches free membership for university events departments and students

26 October 2026 (Last updated: 26 Oct 2026 11:35)

ABPCO (the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers) is to offer free membership to UK university departments delivering events-related degrees, alongside free student membership, as part of a new initiative to strengthen links between education and the association and not-for-profit events sector.

From 1 January 2027, UK universities offering an events-related degree will be able to apply for free ABPCO Academic Department Membership. Students studying at an ABPCO Academic Department Member will be eligible for free Student Membership for the duration of their studies.

Academic Department Members will have access to ABPCO's CPD programme and professional networks, as well as a direct connection with industry professionals through ABPCO's University Liaison Taskforce.

Students will have access to ABPCO resources, including its new Knowledge Hub, and will be able to participate in a planned Student Networking Group. ABPCO will also work to connect student members with work experience and volunteering opportunities across the sector.

ABPCO Co-Chair Jessica Letters said: “We’re committed to supporting the development of future event professionals and the academic teams who prepare them for their careers. University budgets are under enormous pressure, so providing free membership is a practical way for ABPCO to support both educators and students while strengthening the connection between education and industry.”

ABPCO Co-Chair Karen Edwards added: “Many event management students are simply not aware of the breadth of career opportunities available in association and not-for-profit events. We want to change that, giving students a better understanding of the sector, connecting them with experienced professionals and helping them build the networks and experience they need to start their careers.”

The initiative forms part of ABPCO’s wider focus on developing the sector’s talent pipeline. The Association already sponsors The Power of Events’ schools outreach programme and its work experience scheme, and has launched a new Apprentice Member grade for people enrolled on Level 3 event-related apprenticeship programmes who are interested in careers in business or association events.

For more information about ABPCO’s Academic Department, Student or Apprentice Membership, contact hello@abpco.org.

 

View other News