The session will be hosted and facilitated by members of a working group who have been investigating the feasibility of forming an organisation for “not-for-profit” investors to share knowledge of hosting international events.

Various subjects "of importance" to bid cities and regions will be discussed, including in relation to the bid process, economic impact, legacy, Governmental and private sector support.

All conversations will be designed to permit open exchanges of experience and ideas. 

Those set to participate include London & Partners, the body responsible for attracting events to the British capital following the Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as Sport Event Denmark, Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance, Event Scotland and Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development.

Other participants so far are Fáilte Ireland, National Tourism Development Authority, New Zealand Major Events and the USA National Association of Sports Commissions.

“Cities like London have come to recognise the value of major events in developing our economy and society," said Iain Edmondson, head of major events at London & Partners.

"We are always seeking to learn from colleagues around the world and we hope to see representatives from every continent participating in the discussion.”

The three hour meeting will begin at 9:30am on Tuesday April 19 at the SwissTech Convention Center in Lausanne.

All those attending April's SportAccord Convention, taking place in the same week in the Olympic capital, will be invited.

“The impact of hosting international sport events has provided a significant boost to the Canadian economy,” added Rick Traer, chief executive of the Canadian Sport Tourism Alliance.

“The legacy facilities provide much needed infrastructure for athletes to train and to encourage a healthy lifestyle for all Canadians.

"The tangible and intangible benefits of hosting these major events are important reasons for working together, sharing our knowledge and learning from the experiences of other countries.”