Today Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced that Chicago has been ranked the second most popular conventions and meetings destination in the United States. Cvent Supplier Network, an event management technology company, ranked 50 U.S. cities based upon meeting and event booking activity through their software. Chicago moved up three spots from last year, leapfrogging Las Vegas, and is second only to Orlando, Florida.

“I’m pleased to see Chicago recognized for our top-notch business travel and convention industry, which is a key factor of economic growth in our city and is growing rapidly,” said Mayor Emanuel. “As we continue to make investments in our hotels, event spaces, infrastructure and people, I look forward to expanding upon our achievements and growing this critical industry. This is a surefire sign that the investments we are making in our convention and tourism industry are paying off and we will continue with these important efforts.”

Cvent ranked 5,700 United States cities included within its network to determine the top 50 cities, based upon Cvent’s extensive database that includes listings of hotel activity and square footage of meeting space. The top cities also are noted to be in close proximity to major airports.

Since the beginning of his administration, Mayor Emanuel has made it a priority to draw more convention business to the Chicago downtown area. This year, in order to make Chicago a more attractive location for trade shows and conventions, he launched a historic investment in the downtown area, including the expansion and redevelopment of McCormick Place and Navy Pier, which will promote more business in the city and create new jobs in the industry for Chicagoans.

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