A true welcoming culture for associations

Its tradition as a centre of science and research, its advantageous political climate and the influence of its resident institutions, interest groups and prominent personalities, make Basel a truly attractive conference destination. Basel also draws benefits from its home country, since the city's Swissness similarly constitutes a key factor in decision-making.

Unique position in the heart of Europe

Basel's unique position in the heart of Europe and its easy accessibility also contribute to the appeal of this pocket-sized metropolis – which covers an area of just 37 km2. And this is doubtless what attracted a particularly large number of life sciences companies to settle in the city, including the two pharmaceutical companies of Novartis and Roche.

Support for your conference in Basel

It's also no wonder that Basel's political leaders have similarly recognised the relevance of this business and created virtually ideal conditions for organisers. The canton has thus set up a Congress Board aimed at boosting the direct and indirect added value of organised events. In line with the focal points of the city's economy, support is provided primarily for congresses in Innovation in Life Sciences, Digital Innovation and Sustainable Economy. Last year, 22 congresses, 23 trade fairs and guest events in the halls and 118 seminars were staged at Messe and Congress Center Basel alone.

A city of influential institutions

The destination also benefits from being home to a number of influential institutions, including the University of Basel, along with other renowned interest groups and eminent persons. The latter have outstanding international networks and thus play a key role in acquisitions. They include Professor Christoph Hatz of the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, who was instrumental in bringing the annual conference of the International Society of Travel Medicine to his home city, and Professor Eva Scheurer, Head of the Institute of Forensic Medicine, who played a key role in ensuring that the European Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine and Biology will be holding its annual meeting in Basel this autumn. These are all good reasons why representatives of associations organisers would do well to put the city right at the top of their list of future venues.