ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the informal and formal event bid processes, including the bid conceptualisation; feasibility study; political, resident and business support; and regional/national/international bid competition. It explores key success factors and questions to ask one when bidding. The chapter describes issues that bid committees face, notably finance, human resources, infrastructure/operations/logistics, media and visibility, planning and organising, politics, and relationship/participation/interdependence. While most research in sport event management focuses on the event’s planning and outcomes, researchers are examining the bid phase, especially with the slate of cities that are pulling out of hosting major sports events like the Olympic Games. Working on a bid for a sport event is a completely different experience and exercise than working for an organising committee. A bid is all about demonstrating motivation, intention, and strength to decision-makers while following a standardised and controlled process. Said process culminates in the delivery of a final presentation and a vote, with a positive or negative outcome.
