Whether you've been in the event industry for years or you've just started dipping your toes in, the sheer number of software solutions out there can seem overwhelming.
There's a ton to pick from, each promising the world and making your event planning and managing effortless but…
You already know that not every software lives up to its promises, so the real question you're probably grappling with is:
Which B2B event management software truly deserves your time, effort, and money?
And more importantly, which ones will actually help you make your B2B event a success without breaking the bank and requiring excessive time and energy to set up, customize, and use?
What complicates this choice is that despite the numerous options available few have clear product differentiation. And here, we're not just talking about the smaller players with very basic offerings, but the big players too.
So, to really figure out which event software is the best fit for your needs, you need to cut through the marketing noise and look at the facts.
To help you make an informed decision, we've done the heavy lifting and thoroughly examined the top software platforms.
So here, in this guide, we present to you the 10 Best Event Management Software For B2B Events in 2024.
Let’s jump in.
B2B Events vs B2C Events: Difference in Software Technology
Before we go into the list, there's an important distinction we need to cover: the fundamental differences between B2B and B2C event technologies.
The reason this is crucial is because the very nature of how B2B and B2C businesses operate influences what they need from event software.
Here’s what we mean:
B2B events are all about fostering business relationships and networking opportunities.
In this sector, sales cycles are usually long, often stretching over several months, and, despite living in a digital age, a significant chunk of B2B transactions still happens through referrals and established relationships. B2B folks know this very well and that’s why networking is such a key element at B2B events.
The right event management software for B2B needs to support this.
Think of features that facilitate one-on-one meetings, networking sessions, and detailed event attendee profiles that help foster connections before, during, and after the event.
These are features like:
- AI-Driven matchmaking,
- Lounges,
- Integrated meeting scheduling,
- Breakout rooms,
- Event app
In contrast, B2C events focus on immediate engagement and high volumes.
The sales cycles here are very short; think days, hours, or even minutes.
The goal is to grab attention and make a quick impact.
Therefore, B2C event technologies prioritize features that can handle large numbers of registrations and check-ins smoothly, integrate seamlessly with social media to boost real-time interaction, and interactive elements to create memorable experiences that attendees are eager to share.
It's all about creating buzz and excitement right here, right now and encouraging quick consumer actions.
Now, don’t get this wrong - we’re not saying that software for your B2B events shouldn’t have top-grade registration software and check-in features, or that you shouldn’t consider the integrations and interactive elements it offers.
We’re simply advising you to not get too carried away by flashy features while overlooking the essential ones that truly matter to B2B professionals.
What Should You Look For in the Best Event Management Software for B2B Events?
Now that you know what really matters for B2B events, let's take a look at what you should look for when choosing the best event management software for your B2B events.
Functionality
As we already touched on, you need software that doesn’t just perform well in one area.
For example, you don't want a platform that excels at hosting in-person events with fantastic networking capabilities, only to fall short on basic features like registration and check-in.
Nor do you want a system that supports all types of events - be it in-person, virtual, or hybrid - but fumbles when it comes to providing smooth networking experiences or doesn’t have a mobile event app.
The ideal software should handle all the essentials flawlessly. without any glaring weaknesses.
Versatility
Building on the point above, versatility is also an important factor.
B2B events come in many forms: conferences, trade shows, seminars, workshops, product launches, roadshows, VIP events, and award nights, to name a few.
You don’t want to be in a position where you need to switch software each time you host a different type of event.
Look for a platform that’s equipped to support a variety of event formats, so you can stay focused on planning and execution without worrying about the technical back-end.
Ease of Use
The most feature-rich software in the world won't do you much good if it’s a headache to set up, customize, and operate.
You shouldn’t need to hire extra help or spend hours on the phone with support to get your event platform to work right.
That’s why you should look for B2B event management software that has an intuitive interface and that’s easy to use right from the start so you can focus more on the event itself and less on technicalities.
24/7 Customer Support
Even the most reliable software encounters issues now and then.
That’s why having excellent customer support just a call or click away is crucial.
Whether it’s a small glitch or a major hiccup, knowing you can get help anytime, day or night, can really ease the stress of event management.
What does good customer support look like?
It’s simple:
- 24/7 support with fast response times? (in this industry that's 30 seconds or less)
- Dedicated account manager
You won’t believe how many platforms don’t have these, so keep this in mind.
Pricing
Finally, while you need reliable, versatile, and feature-rich software that meets all your event needs, it shouldn’t cost a fortune.
Yes, you’ll have to invest some money - good tools aren’t free - but that doesn’t mean you should overpay.
Look for a solution that provides great value without straining your budget. And before you start thinking “Do these tools even exist?”, yes they do and we’ll go over some of them in a second.
All in all, choosing the right event management tool for your B2B events means balancing these factors to find a solution that fits seamlessly with your event planning needs and expectations.
10 Best Event Management Software For B2B Events in 2024
Let’s now shift our focus to the core of this guide: the 10 best event management software for B2B events in 2024.
With the criteria we've discussed - functionality, versatility, ease of use, customer support, and pricing - in mind, we've carefully evaluated a range of platforms.
Each of these software brings something unique to the table, combining these essential elements to cater to the diverse needs and demands of modern B2B events.
Whether you're organizing a small seminar or a large trade show, these solutions are designed to streamline your planning process and enhance the overall execution of your events.
Let's explore these top choices to find the perfect fit for your B2B event management needs.
1. Accelevents
Starting off, at the first spot on our list we have Accelevents.
Accelevents is an end-to-end enterprise-grade event management platform for virtual, in-person, and hybrid events.
It’s designed to simplify every aspect of event management, making it a top pick for B2B and corporate event marketers looking to host a range of event types and formats, from user conferences and product launches to trade shows and seminars.
Understanding that organizing and managing B2B events is already stressful enough and that event technology should actually make life easier for organizers and not harder, Accelevents created an only enterprise-level platform that’s easy to set up, customize, and use.
With Accelevents you can manage virtual, hybrid, and in-person events from start to finish.
You can build event landing pages with an intuitive drag-and-drop event website builder, set up and customize advanced event ticketing and registration flows, check in attendees virtually and in person, design and print badges, manage a broadcasting studio to live stream events online, capture leads onsite and online, and even track event metrics in real-time.
One of the key features of Accelevents is its robust functionality that connects attendees not just for a single event, but across multiple events.
This ongoing networking capability is ideal for B2B environments where long-term relationships and networking are key.
The platform makes managing these connections effortless, ensuring that once participants connect at one event, they can easily keep in touch at subsequent gatherings.
A big part of B2B events are exhibitors and sponsors, and managing them is rarely easy, but with Accelevents, that's a piece of cake.
The platform automates communications at every touchpoint and, most importantly, boosts exhibitor and sponsor ROI, keeping everyone coming back to your events!
With powerful and robust branding and sponsorship options, exhibitors and sponsors can effectively showcase their brands and assets. They also get access to their portal where they can upload images, documents, and information, manage their teams, and make last-minute adjustments to their booth setups.
Plus, real-time analytics and customizable reports allow both organizers and exhibitors to track every impression, engagement, and click, ensuring that everyone involved can measure the impact of their participation.
Speaking of exhibitors and sponsors, capturing leads is paramount for both them and you.
With an Accelevents lead capture tool, capturing leads is as easy as scanning the QR code displayed on the attendee badge or displayed within the attendee mobile app.
As we've already mentioned a couple of times throughout the article, in the B2B world, networking is one of the most important things, and with this platform AI-assisted networking tools like speed networking in the virtual hub and suggested connections on the mobile app, networking is made not only easier but also more meaningful.
Finally, Accelevents supports extensive integration options.
Data flows smoothly from the organizer’s tech stack to Accelevents and back in real time via native integrations, Zapier, webhooks, and an API for custom integrations.
This flexibility ensures that Accelevents can seamlessly integrate into any event tech ecosystem, particularly enhancing the lead management process by simplifying post-event follow-up and warm lead nurturing.
In sum, Accelevents stands out as a comprehensive event management solution that not only meets the diverse needs of modern B2B events but also enhances the overall event experience for organizers, attendees, exhibitors, and sponsors alike.
Accelevents Scores:
Integrations: Marketo, HubSpot, Salesforce, Cvent, ActiveCampaign, Facebook Pixel, Google Analytics, and Intercom, just to name a few.
Pricing Plans:
- Professional: Starting from $5000
- Business: Starting from $12000
- Enterprise: Contact for a quote
- White label: Contact for a quote
2. Stova
Moving on to the second spot on our list, we have Stova, a robust platform born from the merger of MeetingPlay, Aventri, and Eventcore.
Stova is built to support a wide variety of events, whether they’re online events, in-person events, or hybrid ones.
What this software excels in is streamlining the event planning process by automating various tasks, from the initial setup to the final analytics, thereby improving productivity and enhancing the overall attendee experience.
The platform also enables you to set up a registration site that aligns with your company’s branding, ensuring a consistent look and feel across your event materials.
Its Managed Services ensure that help is always available, aiming to keep your event running smoothly without technical glitches.
Additionally, Stova enhances the attendee experience by offering personalized recommendations and smart match technology, which help participants connect with relevant peers and content.
The platform also integrates logistical elements like hotel reservations and venue sourcing, alongside secure payment processing, to provide a seamless experience for both organizers and attendees.
For connecting attendees, whether they are onsite or online, Stova includes features like AI-powered matchmaking, one-on-one messaging, and video chats.
With customizable reports, you can also gain insights into various metrics such as session attendance and engagement, helping you understand the impact of your event and refine future strategies.
In essence, Stova provides a complete toolkit for handling every stage of the B2B event lifecycle, making it a reliable choice for event planners looking to streamline their operations.
Stova Scores:
Integrations: API plus direct integrations with Hubspot and Salesforce
Pricing Plans: Contact for a quote
3. Eventbrite
Next up, we have Eventbrite, a popular event management platform among event professionals.
While often associated with more straightforward B2C events, it offers a streamlined approach for managing simpler B2B gatherings such as local business networking events, seminars, or luncheons.
Eventbrite’s platform is particularly beneficial for those looking to enhance their event's visibility and draw in attendees effectively.
This software's strength lies in its integration with a vast marketplace, connecting your events with over 90 million active users. Such exposure can significantly increase your event’s visibility and attract an audience that aligns with your event’s theme.
It is especially handy for B2C events, as these focus on attracting a high volume of attendees.
However, for B2B events, where the focus is not merely on quantity but on attracting the 'right' people from your exact target audience, this feature may not be as beneficial
Eventbrite also offers streamlined check-in processes and an Organizer app that allows for easy registration updates and real-time attendee tracking, ensuring a smooth entry for guests and helping keep everything organized during the event.
Additionally, Eventbrite provides insights that help organizers make smarter decisions.
Through detailed analytics and reporting tools, you can gain a clear understanding of your event’s performance, track attendee engagement, and evaluate the effectiveness of your marketing channels.
In summary, while Eventbrite offers a comprehensive set of tools for event planning, it is more suited for less complex B2B events rather than flagship conferences with complex registration paths and badging.
Eventbrite Scores:
Integrations: API and Zapier integrations available
Pricing Plans:
- Free: $0 per event for up to 25 tickets
Flex:
- $9,99 per event for up to 100 tickets
- $24,99 per event for up to 250 tickets
- $49,99 per event for unlimited tickets
Pro:
- $29 per month for up to 100 tickets
- $79 per month for up to 250 tickets
- $159 per month for unlimited tickets
Customer: Contact for a quote
4. Whova
Next, we have Whova, recognized for its versatile event management capabilities suitable for in-person, hybrid, and virtual events.
Whova’s all-in-one platform is particularly noted for its award-winning event app which is designed to enhance participant engagement and networking opportunities.
The app allows attendees quick access to essential event details, personalized schedules, live polls, and interactive messaging features. This ensures that they have all they need to stay informed and connected throughout the event.
For event organizers, Whova simplifies numerous administrative tasks.
The platform includes an agenda center, a speaker hub, tools for name badge creation, and a streamlined check-in process.
These features help organizers reduce the time spent on logistics, allowing them to focus more on enhancing the overall event experience.
For exhibitors and sponsors, Whova provides valuable visibility and lead generation tools, such as business cards and QR code scanning, embedded directly within the app. These features are designed to improve return on investment by facilitating meaningful connections and interactions.
Additionally, Whova enhances the exhibitor experience with options for video chats and one-on-one messaging, making follow-up conversations more manageable and productive.
The platform also includes marketing tools to help promote events via social media, analyze engagement, and schedule content efficiently.
Overall, Whova is recognized for its ability to keep everyone connected and engaged, reducing the workload for event organizers and improving overall event workflow with reliable customer support.
Whova Scores:
Integrations: Cvent, Eventbrite, RegFox, and other CRMs and tools via Zapier
Pricing Plans: Contact for a quote
5. Bizzabo
Continuing our list, we introduce Bizzabo, an all-in-one event management platform built to handle the complexities of event planning by providing event planning tools that streamline event setup, promotion, and execution.
The platform offers features that personalize the attendee experience, such as dynamic online registration and customizable multi-track agendas.
It includes a built-in marketing suite and code-free templates, which allow for easy customization of the event making it adaptable to specific branding and promotional needs.
Bizzabo also provides tools for monitoring key performance indicators and engagement insights, helping organizers understand the impact of their B2B events.
The event planning software simplifies the check-in process with flexible solutions that can range from traditional badge printing to the innovative Klik SmartBadge, enhancing networking opportunities.
Moreover, Bizzabo focuses on enhancing interactions through the Klik Experiential feature, incorporating wearable technology to encourage networking and engagement.
This technology transforms conventional badges into interactive tools that facilitate communication and connection among attendees.
For sponsors and exhibitors, Bizzabo offers features like one-tap lead capture and powerful branding options, aimed at increasing their visibility and return on investment. The platform also promotes sustainability by providing recyclable badges and reusable devices, aligning with modern environmental standards.
If you are currently using Bizzabo and are looking for a Bizzabo alternative, we’ve written a Top 12 Bizzabo Alternatives for Better Event Management in 2024 that you might find more beneficial.
Bizzabo Scores:
Integrations: Open API plus direct integrations with Hubspot, Marketo, and Salesforce
Pricing Plans:
- Essential: Contact for a quote
- Premium: Contact for a quote
- Unleash: Contact for a quote
- Enterprise: Contact for a quote
6. RainFocus
Next on our list is RainFocus.
This software simplifies event management by integrating various aspects of planning and execution into one streamlined event management system.
Similarly to Cvent, RainFocus is especially effective for managing large and complex events.
It integrates smoothly with existing marketing technologies, allowing event planners to extend their reach and enhance engagement through targeted strategies.
The platform's functionality spans several key areas:
- Planning: RainFocus simplifies event planning with registration setups and marketing tools that help you prepare and promote your events effectively.
- Management: It provides robust options to manage all aspects of an event, from attendee interactions to speaker and exhibitor coordination, ensuring everything runs smoothly.
- Delivery: With RainFocus, delivering engaging experiences is made easier, whether it's on-site or via live streaming (webinar). The technology adapts to various event formats, making it versatile for any setting.
- Optimization: The platform also focuses on optimizing event engagement through advanced data analytics and integration capabilities, which help measure success and make informed decisions for future events.
In summary, RainFocus offers a structured yet flexible approach to event management, aiming to facilitate operations and enhance participant engagement without overwhelming organizers with complexity.
RainFocus Scores:
Integrations: Marketo, Domo, Spreedly, DocuSign, Braindate, Slack, Walls.io, Zoom, and many other SaaS tools.
Pricing Plans: Contact for a quote
7. Splash
Moving on, we find Splash in our lineup, a platform well-suited for managing, creating, and marketing both large-scale and intimate events.
Splash is particularly adept at keeping event branding consistent.
It provides event organizers with full control over every attendee interaction, ensuring that each touchpoint, from event pages to email marketing and registration processes, reflects the event's brand.
The platform's flexibility is a key strength, allowing for seamless integration with existing virtual technologies or the option to utilize Splash’s built-in solutions.
This adaptability makes it a practical choice for various event types.
Additionally, Splash simplifies the registration and ticketing process.
Organizers can easily set up tailored registration forms and paths, manage session sign-ups, and handle ticket sales without needing extensive technical knowledge.
The check-in process is designed to be stress-free with the Splash Host app, which enables swift one-swipe check-ins and supports self-service registration options.
All data collected during this process is synchronized in real-time with the organizer's tech stack (CRM), enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of event management.
Overall, Splash stands out for its ability to streamline event planning and execution while ensuring every aspect of the event is engaging and on-brand.
Splash Scores:
Integrations: Salesforce, HubSpot, SugarCRM, Oracle, American Express, Zoom, BlueJeans Ingo, and many others.
Pricing Plans:
- Free
- Pro: Contact for a quote
- Enterprise: Contact for a quote
8. vFairs
Diving into vFairs, we explore a versatile platform that caters to a wide array of events including conferences, trade shows, and job fairs.
vFairs stands out for its comprehensive event management tool that supports both virtual and in-person experiences, ensuring that all participants, regardless of their location, enjoy a fully immersive event.
vFairs simplifies event networking significantly.
The platform offers intuitive chat features that encourage real-time interactions among attendees.
These features include live chat rooms for dynamic discussions, the ability to share files and contact details directly within the chat, and advanced options like chat threads and pinned messages to enhance the conversational experience.
For more direct interaction, vFairs facilitates one-on-one and group audio/video calls, which can be initiated effortlessly from both the virtual event platform and the mobile app.
This system is enriched with a screen-sharing feature, allowing presentations and visuals to be showcased during calls.
Exhibitors at vFairs events receive notable support to maximize their visibility.
The platform allows for customizable exhibit booths with options for premium placements and designs that stand out, catering specifically to top-tier sponsors and ensuring their brand is prominently featured.
Furthermore, vFairs incorporates smart matchmaking technology that automatically connects attendees based on shared interests and professional expertise.
This engagement tool not only boosts networking opportunities but also enhances the overall engagement and value of the event for every participant.
All in all, vFairs provides a robust framework for hosting diverse events, facilitating enhanced networking, and ensuring exhibitors and attendees can make the most out of their event experience.
vFairs Scores:
Integrations: Stripe, PayPal, Kudo, Eloqua, HubSpot, ChatGPT, Slido, Restream, plus many other cloud-based tools.
Pricing Plans:
- Basic Annual License: Contact for a quote
- Premium Annual License: Contact for a quote
- Enterprise Annual License: Contact for a quote
- Customized Plans: Available for all event types and goals
9. Webex Events (formerly Socio)
Exploring further, Webex Events (formerly Socio) emerges as a powerful tool for B2B event organizers looking to create comprehensive and engaging conference experiences.
This platform is adept at hosting events ranging from small gatherings to large-scale B2B conferences with tens of thousands of participants.
Webex Events enables organizers to bring their conferences to life with extensive customization options for features and branding. It supports various conference formats seamlessly, allowing for easy transitions between in-person and virtual setups, ensuring that all contingencies are covered.
The platform enhances attendee engagement through an intuitive digital guide that centralizes all event content.
This guide allows attendees to personalize their agendas, access session broadcasts, see floor plans, and discover speakers and sponsors in one consolidated location. Interaction is further encouraged with native tools for chat, Q&A sessions, polling, and gamification, alongside options to integrate third-party applications as needed.
For networking, Webex Events offers video rooms and one-on-one video chat capabilities, facilitating meaningful connections among participants.
Webex Events also focuses on inclusivity, offering features such as live translations, closed captions, and comprehensive accessibility options. Furthermore, the platform provides organizers with valuable insights through real-time analytics and post-event data, helping to refine future events and demonstrate value to sponsors.
Overall, Webex Events stands out by providing a robust infrastructure for delivering versatile and inclusive conference experiences, equipped with all the tools necessary to engage participants and make successful events.
Webex Events Scores:
Integrations: Zoom, Salesforce, Marketo, HubSpot, TypeForm, Remo, Zapier, Cvent, RegOnline, Google Analytics, and Miro, just to name a few.
Pricing Plans (Pricing is based on the number of attendees per year, so we’ll cover only a few):
- 100: $999 annually
- 500: $4,500 annually
- 1,500: $10,500 annually
- 5.000: $22,500 annually
- 10,000: $35,000 annually
10. Cvent
And, for the end, we have Cvent, often referred to as the Salesforce of the event industry.
Our list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning this industry giant.
Cvent has established itself as a market leader, offering a comprehensive suite of tools to manage any event, from the simplest seminar to the most complex multinational conference.
It provides solutions for event registration and marketing, making it easy to create branded online experiences that capture registrations in real time, send reminders, and drive attendee conversions.
The platform also features robust agenda-building, customizable registration websites, targeted B2B marketing campaigns, and seamless payment processing.
For on-site attendee management, Cvent offers mobile apps, rapid check-in and badging, attendee tracking, and lead capture tools, enhancing the overall event experience.
Moreover, Cvent supports exhibitors and sponsors with a dedicated exhibitor portal, simplifying project management, communications, and lead capture.
This helps maximize their return on investment and streamline their event participation.
All in all, Cvent has everything you can think of for event management, however…
Like most 'industry giants,' it comes with its share of challenges:
- Complexity: The sheer breadth of features, while impressive, can make the system overwhelming, particularly for those without a dedicated event management or IT team.
- Not very intuitive: Some users find the user interface not as user-friendly as newer platforms, which could steepen the learning curve for less tech-savvy users.
- Limitations: While Cvent is highly customizable, certain customizations are complex and might require additional support, which can be a barrier for smaller organizations.
- Cost: Cvent's comprehensive functionality comes at a premium, making it a significant investment, particularly for smaller businesses or those running events with tight budget constraints.
These points do not detract from Cvent's capability as a powerful tool in the event management space but are worth considering to ensure it aligns with your organization's needs, resources, and event management goals.
So, if you aren't a large organization or you don't have an unlimited budget, you might want to consider some alternatives to Cvent.
However, if you have the time, money, and human resources to fully leverage its capabilities, you can't go wrong with this industry leader.
Cvent's comprehensive features set it apart, making it a top choice for those who can navigate its complexities and commit to its cost.
Cvent Scores:
Integrations: Salesforce, Marketo, Zapier, Zoom, Eloqua, Slack, HubSpot, and tons of others.
Pricing Plans: Contact for a quote
Closing Thoughts
As we wrap up our exploration of the top event management software for B2B events in 2024, it's clear that the right tool can transform how you plan, manage, and execute your events.
Choosing the best software goes beyond comparing features - it’s about aligning these tools with your specific event goals, audience needs, and organizational capabilities.
Whether you need a solution that excels in seamless registration and intuitive user interfaces or one that offers robust analytics and advanced customization, the key is to prioritize what matters most for your event’s success.
Remember, the most expensive or feature-rich platform isn't necessarily the best fit for every organization. Consider the scale of your events, the resources you can allocate, and the level of support you need.
Ultimately, the success of your B2B events hinges not just on the software you choose but on how well it integrates with your event strategy and enhances the overall experience for participants.
Take the time to try out these platforms when possible, engage with their support teams, and even seek feedback from other users to make an informed choice that will add true value to your events.
By carefully selecting the right event management software, you empower your team members to focus more on delivering memorable event experiences and less on managing the complexities of event logistics.
Still not sure which one to try first?
Try Accelevents.
You’ll be amazed at how easy and stress-free organizing B2B events can be.
See you inside!
