PCMA and event technology solutions provider Gevme recently rolled out new enhancements to Spark, a generative AI tool built by event professionals for event professionals. Introduced to the global business events community nearly 17 months ago, Spark now boasts more than 9,000 users. The tool offers the ability to identify viable destinations and venues. 

Back story: Spark’s new offerings are the result of a partnership with Tempest.im, a multifaceted agency specializing in destination marketing solutions that include customer relationship management (CRM), website development, and digital marketing strategies tailored for destination organizations.  

What they are saying: “Business events strategists are continually seeking opportunities to be as productive as possible while at the same time being mindful of their footprint and impact on destinations and venues,” said PCMA and CEMA President and CEO Sherrif Karamat. “We continue to grow and evolve Spark in the AI business events industry space by creating alliances with organizations that can help bring the supply and demand side of the business together through a more seamless and efficient user experience.” 

What’s next: Several destinations--including Dallas, Texas, Detroit, Long Beach, Calif., Minneapolis, and Pittsburgh--are in the early integration process with Spark through the Tempest alliance, according to PCMA officials. 

Deeper dive: “Meet Minneapolis has been actively exploring the potential of AI tools to enhance our operations, so we are proud to be selected for the partnership between PCMA, Gevme and Tempest,” said Melvin Tennant, president and CEO, Meet Minneapolis. “These organizations are committed to advancing our industry, and Spark is a great example of that shared vision. Powered by unique and valuable destination data, this tool will enable meeting professionals to seamlessly connect with local businesses to fulfill their event needs. Meet Minneapolis is excited to utilize this innovative solution to improve our customer engagement and streamline processes.” 

How it works: Spark’s integration with Tempest will enable business events strategists to be more productive via the capability to identify destinations and venues that meet their needs and criteria, all in one spot, according to Tempest officials. 

Big picture: “We’re excited to partner with PCMA and Gevme on the Spark integration, enhancing its already robust event planning capabilities,” said Alex Heimann, CEO, Tempest. “This collaboration channels high-quality data from destination organizations into the foundational models powering Spark, equipping event professionals with reliable, authoritative destination information and insights.” 

Why it matters: Gevme CEO Veemal Gungadin said, “With this new integration, Spark is advancing its ability to connect the right people, places, and opportunities in one seamless platform. By partnering with Tempest, we are making it easier for event professionals to not only find suitable destinations and venues but to make data-driven decisions that align with their sustainability goals and event requirements. This is about empowering event strategists with actionable insights, and we're excited to see how our growing community of users will leverage these enhanced capabilities to create impactful experiences.” 

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