The IMEX Group has worked with the American Psychological Association (APA) and the Australian Psychological Society (APS) to launch a new standardized framework for neurodivergent inclusivity in event design. The new standard was introduced to the industry this week at IMEX America 2025.

As part of its collaboration with the two organizations, IMEX submitted IMEX America for this new framework and, as a result, the show has been awarded Level III Comprehensive Neurodivergent Accommodation, the highest level of endorsement. (The award applies only to those aspects within IMEX’s control, not the exhibit floor).

Level III signifies a fully neurodivergent inclusive event, with design strategies that ensure accessibility and inclusivity for all attendees, integrating inclusivity into every stage of planning, execution, and feedback.

To achieve the standard, the IMEX-operated elements outside of the exhibition floor were audited, including the Resilience Room, which was designed, built and powered by Hello! Destination Management; the Hosted Buyer Lounge; and various soundproof workstations. Assessments focused on sensory considerations, program design, and communication.

“By embodying our core value of ‘people first,’ we’ve embraced a human-led approach to event design that prioritizes the needs of every attendee,” says Oli Bailey, Interaction Design at IMEX. “This new framework not only reflects that commitment—it also sets a precedent for the global events industry to follow. It’s a meaningful step toward making neuroinclusivity an industry benchmark and a foundational element of how events are imagined and delivered.

“We’re proud that IMEX America has achieved Level III Comprehensive Neurodivergent Accommodation. At the same time, we understand that accessibility is a continuous journey—there’s always room to grow, and we remain committed to learning and evolving.”

Further information will be issued in the coming weeks, signposting planners to free resources and details about the new standard’s requirements.

IMEX America 2025 wraps up today. The show ran October 7-9 at Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas, Nevada.

Photo top of post (left to right):

• Oli Bailey, Interaction Design at IMEX
• Dr. Amanda Clinton, Senior Director for the Office of International Affairs at the American Psychological Association (APA)
• Paula Rowntree, Head of External Engagement at the Australian Psychological Society
• Cameron Rust, Senior Director Experience Design at Hello! Destination Management 
• Kate Walsh, Regional Vice President at Hello! Destination Management.