Meeting Planners Are Done With Forced Networking — Here's What's Working Instead

When Cleo Battle speaks with meeting planners, one consistent challenge comes up in nearly every discussion.

“Networking needs help,” Battle, the CEO of Louisville Tourism, said. “People want connection, but they don’t want forced fun. Content plus cocktails isn’t enough anymore.”

As attendees grow more selective about how they spend their time, planners are reevaluating programs and focusing on helping attendees meaningfully connect. More and more, that means stepping outside the convention environment and into the city’s culture.

A new destination guide developed in partnership with Louisville Tourism explores how Louisville has built a walkable, experience-rich downtown where the city itself becomes part of the program. The guide covers specific venues, event formats, and lessons from groups like PCMA and MPI on turning a destination into a networking asset. 

Over the past 15 years, Louisville has developed a compact downtown packed with distinctive venues and cultural experiences, all within steps of the convention center — including more than a dozen distillery experiences and tasting rooms that make up the world’s only walkable spirits district. 

For planners, Battle said the district produces a unique energy that turns networking into something attendees actually want to do. Instead of planning one centralized party, groups are leaning into progressive events that give attendees more freedom to experience the city on their own terms.

“The biggest difference is spontaneity,” Battle said. “When you remove the ‘be downstairs at 6:10, or you miss the shuttle’ dynamic, you give attendees permission to explore the city at their own pace. People break into smaller groups, linger longer, and follow their curiosity — that’s where the memorable moments happen.”

Download the guide today to see exactly how Louisville is helping planners turn networking from an obligation into the highlight of the event.