International Conference Leaders’ Fund

University researchers are key to bringing international conferences to Wellington, showcasing their work on the global stage and collaborating with worldwide associations.

Research suggests that academics are eager to deepen their engagement with international associations and their conferences. Regular conference attendance is fundamental to building a global network, however a lack of funding can often make this a challenge. The International Conference Leaders’ Fund will enable researchers to actively engage with international associations and build their international profile.

Long-serving academics are often actively involved in international associations, hold board roles, or are renowned within their sector. Support to help these academics bid for a conference is already available. Read more about bidding for an international conference.

Fund objectives

  • To support researchers to build their profile within the international association they are a member of.
  • Align conference attraction efforts with Wellington’s strategic sectors. 
  • Increase the number of international conference bids led by Wellington-based researchers. 
  • Create a sustainable pipeline of future international conference leaders who can support future conference opportunities.

Ready to take the next step?

Applications for the Leaders' fund are open now. If you'd like to find out more detailed information about criteria and the application process, download the following documents:

Leaders’ Fund brochure [PDF 9.20MB] 

Leader's Fund Application form [DOCX 136 MB] 

Key dates

  • Applications Open: Monday 29 September 2025
  • Applications Close: Friday 21 November 2025 at 23:59
  • Notification of Outcomes: Friday 5 December 2025 

Find out more

Find out how Business Events Wellington can help you bid to host an international conference.

Learn more

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Delegates attend a presentation at RANZCOG ASM.

Bidding for an international conference

If you’d like to bid for and host an international conference in Wellington, you can get free guidance and support from the Business Events Wellington team. Find out the process for bidding and how we can help.

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Why conference in Wellington

Compact, connected and creative, New Zealand’s capital offers everything you need to make your next conference impactful.

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Support for your event

Business Events Wellington offers free and impartial advice from the initial planning process through to finding venues and accommodation, or recommending delegate experiences.

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Meet the team

The Business Events Wellington team are approachable and highly skilled professionals, with years of industry and event planning experience.

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Sustainable events

Wellington is ambitious when it comes to addressing climate change. Here are some suggestions for hosting a more sustainable event.

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Sectors of strength

Wellington is full of talented people who are breaking new ground and promoting creative ideas, innovation, and future thinking.

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Wellington Advocate Network

Be part of a community of industry leaders helping to attract conferences to New Zealand’s capital city.