Show Off CR
You Can Help!
Do you belong to an organization or association that holds regional or national meetings or sporting events?
If so, the Cedar Rapids Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (CRACVB) wants to enlist your help in bringing your next convention, meeting or tournament to Cedar Rapids. Just fill out the form above, we'll contact you to ask a few questions and then we'll take it from there. It's that easy!
Recognition:
Individuals who assist the CRACVB in securing meetings/conventions are recognized at the CRACVB Annual Meeting as a CR Show Off. You will join numerous other individuals who have brought their events to Cedar Rapids including conferences, convention and sporting events.
Individuals like local businessman, Ralph Palmer, who brought the 2010 National Horseshoe Pitchers Association World Tournament to Cedar Rapids. Hear from Ralph here.
Our CR Show Offs experience a sense of pride while contributing to the economy of the Cedar Rapids Area.
Benefits include:
- Recognition during your event by local officials
- Planning your group's events, providing a unique opportunity to participate in the process
- Gaining the recognition of your peers both locally and regionally
- Significantly impacting the economy of the region
FAQ:
Q: Why would my colleagues enjoy meeting in Cedar Rapids?
A: Cedar Rapids offers all you need to exceed the expectations of your attendees. Cedar Rapids has all the amenities of a large city, but the personal service and attention you’ll only receive here. The U.S. Cellular Complex and fantastic area hotels, great area restaurants, museums and theatres all add to a great experience for your guests. Your colleagues will experience the fun, service and value, of meeting in Cedar Rapids.
Q: Why would I want to have my event in Cedar Rapids?
A: Inviting your meeting/tournament to convene in Cedar Rapids is an excellent way to show your pride in both Cedar Rapids and Iowa. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the region's economy while offering valuable exposure for your local and state-wide members'.
Q: Won't it be a lot of work for me to host my group's convention?
A: It all depends on the group. Some groups only need an invitation from the local chapter, some may provide financial assistance to your local group, and some need the local members to assist with planning and fundraising. Needs differ for each individual group, but together with the Convention & Visitors Bureau's staff you can explore what your group's requirements are.
Q: How will the Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) staff help me?
A: The CVB works as your partner in the bid process. We can block the space for large groups at area convention facilities years in advance, obtain proposals with prices and hotel room availability and help with the special needs and requirements of your group. We can also assist with presenting the bid.
Q: What support will the CVB provide after the group is booked?
A: The Convention Services staff will help guide you as you begin to plan your convention. This help ranges from local business referrals for help with audio-visual needs, speakers, transportation, maps, and visitor information to help with planning event programming and tours. Staff is also helpful by providing assistance with attendance building prior to your event.
Q: My local association doesn't have enough members to host a convention?
A: Together we'll help you think more broadly to consider regional or state-wide assistance. Often other nearby chapters will join together with the planning efforts as they gain useful exposure within the larger organization. Sometimes these broader relationships last beyond the actual event.
Q: I'm ready to help, what do I do next?
A: Just provide the Cedar Rapids Area Convention & Visitors Bureau with information about your group and its upcoming meetings. Then the CVB will begin the bidding process. This information will allow the CVB to:
- research your next open meeting year and start the bid process
- gather and compile hotel and meeting facility proposals
- make presentations to the decision making committee
- arrange site visits for decision makers
Contact Us:
We look forward to working together with you to bring your group to Cedar Rapids! More questions? Contact us at 319-398-5009 or email info@cedar-rapids.com.