SpringBoard: A celebration of 70 years of ITM

Celebrating the people and the connections that have defined ITM’s 70 year journey. SpringBoard is ITM’s largest ever conference, bringing together 600+ delegates to look at the past, present and future of this wonderfully vibrant and warm community.

The ITM Spring Conference kicks off with a Welcome Party like no other – celebrating choice, authenticity and joy with a one-of-a-kind drag night. ‘The Bold and the Beautiful’ features our very own industry members as they embrace the spirit of ITM – community, creativity, and a willingness to try something new. Stepping into the spotlight: Ian Jones, Matthew Heymans, Mike Heath, Roya Soleimanifar, Richard Thomas and Wayne Lappage transform into their drag personas on stage. With thanks to our partners ALTOUR, Front, HeadBox, temoji and Melia. The aim of this unforgettable evening is to reflect the spirit of SpringBoard: inclusive, supportive and full of personality. Reminding us that our community is strongest when everyone feels able to bring their whole self.

Building meaningful connections

ITM is committed to delivering an inclusive conference that welcomes all. Actively promoting initiatives that bring its D,E&I values to life, the team are dedicated to delivering you an unparalleled delegate experience. Supporting your wellbeing, this year in addition to ‘Wellness with United’ encouraging delegates to SpringBoard their morning with activities (such as yoga, run/walks, swimming and a beach clean); ITM reserves time within its insightful agenda to Recharge on the afternoon of Day 2.

‘Afternoon Recharge’ gives delegates the opportunity to add activities into their schedule via the app, to take a break away from the traditional conference format. A variety of options aims to help delegates to unwind, stimulate their thinking or simply spend time with peers within a relaxed informal environment. Activities include joining a charity choir, ‘The Choir With No Name’, created to support people with lived experience of homelessness. Giving delegates the opportunity to either sing or simply listen and feel the connection that music brings to people who often feel unseen. As an added benefit participants are also given the option to perform alongside the choir at the start of the ITM Gala Dinner and Awards.

 More than a conference…

Another opportunity to perhaps experience something new, is the introduction of a Walking Photography Lesson: a guided tour including tips and tricks to help you take better photos. Or a chance to book a slot with a professional head shot photographer courtesy of United Airlines.

Delegates are also invited to take a trip on a Brighton Tea Bus: a sightseeing excursion which allows you to connect while enjoying a variety of refreshments. Plus, a Games Room featuring giant versions of the Nations favourites, including Jenga, Connect Four and ‘Sweets’ pong table, to name but a few. Recharging in every sense of the word, ElectricPedals for delegates to cycle their way to full battery on their phones or device are available above the Expo throughout the conference.

Adventure Golf also makes a comeback from its successful debut last year at Celtic Manor. Alongside ITM’s signature BKEs (Buyer Knowledge Exchange) with a new addition of ‘Table Talks’ incorporating buyer and supplier discussions on a range of topics. Lastly, for those who want to get out and about, temoji leads their NetWalking session, splitting delegates into small groups to walk and talk along the seafront.

Building what’s next, together

Reflecting on 70 years of shared success, made possible by our incredible people. ITM continues to build on its commitment to providing a responsible conference. Providing opportunities for young people via hands on training and skills development on site with ‘The Production Crew’. Partnering with Social Enterprise Expo providers: Stitch by Connection Crew, supporting ‘Make Change Count’ through its many ITM Cares initiatives and upcycling materials via EventCycle. ITM aims to inspire and nurture industry professionals by demonstrating how events can go beyond engagement to deliver lasting impact. And thanks to Direct Travel, this ambition can also be realised by offsetting all delegate travel.

SpringBoard’s thoughtful agenda concludes with the ITM Gala Dinner and Awards, in which the winner of ITM’s 2026 Travel Buyer of the Year will be revealed. Celebrating 70 years of community, togetherness and most importantly our people – this momentous event is certainly one not to be missed!