IMEX America has received Level III Comprehensive Neurodivergent Accommodation, the highest endorsement available under a new framework for neurodivergent-inclusive event design.
Developed through collaboration between the IMEX Group, the American Psychological Association and the Australian Psychological Society, the framework offers event organisers a structured way to assess and improve how their events support different sensory, communication and participation needs.
Level III recognises events that integrate neuroinclusion throughout planning, delivery and feedback, moving accessibility beyond a single quiet room or isolated intervention. At IMEX America, the assessment covered areas directly managed by IMEX outside the exhibition floor, including the Hosted Buyer Lounge, soundproof workstations and the Resilience Room developed with Hello! Destination Management.
Auditors considered sensory conditions, programme design and attendee communications. The endorsement therefore reflects both physical features and the less visible decisions that shape how confidently people can navigate and participate in a large event.
Oli Bailey, Interaction Design at IMEX, said: “This new framework not only reflects that commitment, it also sets a precedent for the global events industry to follow.” Bailey added that accessibility remains a continuing process, with further learning and improvement still required.