The event industry has seen significant advancements with the introduction of AI-powered tools designed to enhance exhibitor experiences and streamline event planning. Two major developments have recently emerged: Map Your Show’s Sales Accelerator and NYC Tourism + Conventions’ Ellis AI chat platform.
Map Your Show Launches AI-Powered Sales Tool
Map Your Show, a trade show operating system based in Cincinnati, Ohio, has introduced Sales Accelerator, an AI-powered tool aimed at helping exhibitors generate better-qualified leads and increase business opportunities. By analyzing proprietary data on attendee activity and behavior, Sales Accelerator predicts attendees’ needs and interests, enabling exhibitors to focus on converting leads into customers.

According to Don Kline, CEO of Map Your Show, “The goal of Sales Accelerator is to help our customers leverage artificial intelligence to analyze unique attendee behavior generated on our platform.” This tool not only employs advanced AI-driven lead scoring to rank prospects based on intent but also integrates third-party data to provide additional information about leads. It helps exhibitors create personalized messages tailored to each lead’s interests, thus enhancing communication and relationship-building.
NYC Tourism + Conventions Unveils AI Chat Platform
New York City Tourism + Conventions has launched Ellis, its first AI chat-planning platform for business event professionals. Developed in partnership with GuideGeek, Ellis offers expert guidance and resources in 45 languages via the NYC Tourism Meeting Planner resource page and WhatsApp. Named after Ellis Island, the platform uses information from NYCTourism.com and over 1,000 travel integrations to help meeting planners streamline venue research and welcome event delegates to New York City.

Julie Coker, president and CEO of NYC Tourism + Conventions, expressed excitement about unveiling Ellis, stating that it revolutionizes event planning in New York City. The platform can answer NYC-related event planning questions and provide instant responses. This development is particularly significant as NYC anticipates 13.1 million business travelers this year.
Looking ahead, NYC Tourism + Conventions plans to launch Libby, a consumer-facing AI chat platform named after the Statue of Liberty, to assist leisure travelers. Both Ellis and Libby are being introduced strategically ahead of New York City hosting the FIFA World Cup Final and eight matches in 2026.
These innovations demonstrate the event industry’s commitment to leveraging AI technology to enhance event experiences and improve operational efficiency. As the industry continues to evolve, such tools are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the future of events.