Pursuit's Take
Since 2006, NIST MEP has hosted an annual conference in Orlando to help MEP Centers learn about the latest tools, services, best practices, and strategies to advance the innovation and competitiveness of their clients.
After review, OIG estimates $1,108,943 in federal dollars were spent at the 2012 Orlando conference.
The May 2012 conference included evening receptions at no cost to the participants that included food, alcohol, and live musical entertainment. Funds were raised to pay for the reception through the sale of sponsorships by the conference planner that included benefits such as conference attendee lists and logo branding opportunities on conference materials.