Poate Match Maker
Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) Match Maker Portal
The Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) is Uganda’s premier annual tourism and travel trade event, organized by the Uganda Tourism Board (UTB). Renowned as East Africa’s signature tourism showcase, POATE brings together regional and international tour operators, travel agents, hoteliers, destination marketing agencies, and other tourism stakeholders to network, forge partnerships, and promote Uganda as a world-class travel destination. At the heart of this dynamic event lies the POATE Match Maker Portal, a cutting-edge digital platform designed to streamline business connections and maximize opportunities for participants.
About POATE
POATE serves as a vibrant platform to highlight Uganda’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse tourism offerings, including gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, cultural tours, and adventure experiences. The expo facilitates both Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Consumer (B2C) engagements, fostering collaborations that drive sustainable tourism growth. With its theme for 2025, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” POATE continues to champion responsible tourism practices, aligning with global trends in conservation, community empowerment, and sustainability.
The POATE Match Maker Portal
The POATE Match Maker Portal is an innovative online tool that enhances the expo experience by connecting participants before, during, and after the event. Tailored to meet the needs of tourism professionals, the portal simplifies networking and deal-making, ensuring meaningful and productive interactions.
Key Features of the Match Maker Portal:
Pre-Event Scheduling: Registered participants can browse profiles of exhibitors, hosted buyers, and trade visitors to schedule one-on-one meetings in advance, ensuring a focused and efficient expo experience.
Smart Matchmaking: The portal uses intelligent algorithms to recommend connections based on business interests, services offered, and market goals, helping users find the right partners to grow their networks.
Virtual Networking: For those unable to attend in person, the portal offers virtual meeting options, enabling global participation and expanding opportunities for collaboration.
Resource Hub: Access event schedules, exhibitor details, and tourism resources, including destination guides and investment opportunities, all in one place.
Post-Event Follow-Up: The portal remains active after the expo, allowing users to continue conversations, finalize deals, and maintain relationships forged during POATE.
Why Use the Match Maker Portal?
Efficiency: Save time by planning meetings with key industry players before the event begins.
Global Reach: Connect with international buyers, media, and tourism stakeholders from key source markets.
Business Growth: Secure partnerships, explore new markets, and close deals that elevate your tourism business.
Sustainability Focus: Align with POATE’s commitment to responsible tourism by engaging with like-minded professionals dedicated to sustainable practices.
NIAT-U at POATE 2025
As a leading voice in Uganda’s tourism sector, the New International Association of Tourism – Uganda (NIAT-U) proudly supports POATE 2025, scheduled for May 21st to 24th, 2025, at the Speke Resort and Convention Centre in Munyonyo, Kampala. NIAT-U members will leverage the Match Maker Portal to showcase their unique offerings, connect with global tourism stakeholders, and contribute to the sustainable transformation of Uganda’s tourism industry.
Whether you’re a tour operator, hotelier, or conservationist, the POATE Match Maker Portal empowers you to make the most of this transformative event. Join us at POATE 2025 to Tell Your Story – Explore Uganda and unlock new opportunities in the heart of the Pearl of Africa.
How to Get Involved
Register for POATE 2025: Visit poate.co.ug to sign up as an exhibitor, buyer, or trade visitor.
Access the Match Maker Portal: Once registered, log in to the portal to create your profile, explore connections, and schedule meetings.
Connect with NIAT-U: Contact us to learn how NIAT-U can support your participation and help you maximize your POATE experience.
For more information about POATE 2025 and the Match Maker Portal, or to explore membership with NIAT-U, reach out to our team.