EIBTM’s WorldWide Technology Watch has received the highest number of entries ever. The 2010 competition, which closed on 3rd September, has 50 entries from 49 companies – all of which have developed new technology solutions for the meetings, events, incentive travel, conference and exhibition industries. 70% of companies have entered for the first time.
2007 and 2009 were also record years with over 40 entries. 74% of product entries were from outside Europe, mainly USA and Canada. Types of products entered include mobile technology and virtual reality solutions to support meetings.
The highest ever number of non-exhibitors entered the competition this year reaching a total of 84%. This has also meant that there has been a huge increase in interest from new prospects and entrants to exhibit at the EIBTM Technology Village– the interest being so overwhelming that the Technology Village is now sold out.
The EIBTM WorldWide Technology Watch will be judged by a high profile panel of judges from the industry on three criteria – innovation and uniqueness, potential impact on the industry, and completeness of the product or service. Judging takes place on 6th October 2010.
Corbin Ball, Corbin Ball Associates, who is Chairman of the judging panel, said: “With a record number of entries this year, the range of innovative products for this year’s Worldwide Technology Watch looks excellent! I am confident to speak for the judging committee to say that we are very much looking forward to reviewing the applications and making the best selection to win this prestigious award.”
The other judges include Martin Sirk, CEO, ICCA; Bruce MacMillan, President/CEO, Meeting Professionals International; Paul Hussey, Business Development Manager, BSI Meetings and Events; Ruud Janssen, Managing Director, TNOC; Samuel J Smith, Managing Director of Interactive Meeting Technology, LLC and Lynn Wong, Co-Founder and Director of Grupo eventoplus.
The winner will receive a free stand to exhibit at the Technology Village @ EIBTM 2010, and will present their winning product at the show. They will also gain widespread publicity in EIBTM 2010 WWTW promotional material.
For further information, please visit www.eibtm.com/wwtw.
