Attention global exhibition industry professionals! Are you passionate about the industry and want to be part of its evolution? Do you want to take your career development to the next level? Put your best talent forward by applying for the UFI Next Generation Leadership Grant (NGL Grant) program, now accepting applications through March 28, 2022.

Developed by UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, this prestigious talent accelerator program is currently looking for five outstanding, high-potential industry professionals to participate in an eight-month-long project alongside other talented individuals from across the global industry.

Designed to promote next generation leadership in the industry while rewarding professionals demonstrating clear initiatives in driving change and innovation, the NGL Grant program’s mission this year is to develop a dynamic talent narrative for the industry—a topic of critical importance to the future of the sector, according to Angela Herberholz, UFI program manager.

“Post-pandemic [and] the forced slowdown of our industry because of COVID-19, we know that one of the most critical topics within our industry is talent,” she said. “It is more important than ever that we recognize the talent we have in the exhibition industry and foster dialogue. This year’s UFI Next Generation Leadership Grant awards a group of up to five rising stars ready to develop a new talent narrative for businesses in our industry."

Beginning in April 2022, the five selected participants will collaborate in developing and honing this new narrative via group calls, discussions with industry leaders, support from the UFI team and an in-person workshop during the UFI European Conference, taking place May 4-6 in Poznan, Poland, culminating in a group presentation at the 89th UFI Global Congress, set for Nov. 14-17 in Muscat, Oman.

The costs of event participation, travel and accommodation are covered by the program.

Professionals from all backgrounds and roles within the exhibition industry are encouraged to apply, however, to be eligible, an applicant must have no more than 10 years of experience within the industry. Applicants must also agree to participate in the program while balancing their “day job” responsibilities.

Typically, the NGL Grant program requires approximately three hours of time per month, according to UFI officials. But for a commitment of just 24 hours over an eight-month period, the program offers a generous range of career-boosting benefits, including:

• An opportunity to define one of the most critical topics facing the exhibition industry
• A highly visible platform to push the boundaries and change the thinking of the sector
• An opportunity to meet, collaborate and network with some of the leading executives in the industry
• Support from UFI and the NGL alumni community

Now in its sixth year, the NGL Grant program was launched in 2016 and has taken place every year except for 2021, due to the pandemic. So far, the Grant has been awarded to 25 high-potential professionals, many of whom have gone on to be leaders in the industry, according to UFI officials. 

“[The industry must] re-think how we position our businesses with a strong focus on why a career in business events stands out,” Herberholz added. “Professionals who are keen on being at the heart of this mission, ready to steer an industry-wide conversation across geographies and audiences to foster, trigger and hopefully support many company-based and market-based activities must apply for the 2022 UFI NGL Grant.”

For more information and to apply before the March 28 deadline, go here.

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