The international association congress market brings together members with common professional, scientific or social interests. The associations vary in size and membership, can be regional or international in scope and use meetings as one of the most important communication methods amongst members. The associations also use their meetings as a key revenue generator to support the headquarters and fund outreach activities such as specialised research and public health campaigns as well as programmes in developing countries. Individuals attend congresses because they provide an opportunity to share ideas and information about their industry or field, impart/gain intelligence and research and network with industry colleagues. Academic and.