In the ever-evolving world of live events, 2025 has ushered in a new era of investment strategies, particularly in audiovisual (AV) production. Event organizers are recognizing that AV is no longer just a line item on a budget—it’s the heartbeat of engagement, experience, and effectiveness.
The Shift in AV Investment
Traditionally, AV was seen as a necessity rather than an opportunity. But in today’s competitive event landscape, organizations are allocating significant portions of their budget to ensure their message is seen, heard, and felt at the highest level.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
The best event planners are dedicating 27-33% of their total budget to AV—an increase that reflects the rising importance of high-quality event technology.
The average franchise meeting budget is $1.06 million, meaning a well-produced event will allocate at least $278,000 to AV.
Across the industry, the national average event cost per attendee ranges from $500 to $2,500 for a two-day conference, making AV a critical part of maximizing attendee experience and value. Obviously these numbers can fluctuate based on actual needs and wants but this is a great starting point if you’re early in the process.
Why the Increased AV Investment?
1. Attendees Expect an Immersive Experience
Gone are the days of basic projectors and crackling microphones. Today’s audiences demand crisp visuals, seamless audio, and dynamic stage designs. Engaging LED walls, interactive presentations, and immersive lighting designs are becoming the standard, not the exception. No budget for immersive AV? Consider investing in high impact networking opportunities that are experience based.
2. Hybrid & Virtual Components Are Here to Stay
Even with the return of in-person events, hybrid formats are still a key investment. Companies are ensuring remote attendees get an experience that rivals in-person participation with professional streaming, multi-camera production, and high-quality sound mixing.
3. Brand Messaging Needs to Be Unforgettable
A well-produced event doesn’t just inform—it inspires. Organizations investing in high-end video content, cinematic storytelling, and custom motion graphics are seeing stronger brand recognition and audience retention.
4. Tech-Driven Engagement is the Future
From AI-powered content customization to real-time audience interaction tools, AV is playing a pivotal role in creating more engaging and data-driven events. Advanced sound design, holographic displays, and 3D projection mapping are becoming key differentiators for industry leaders.
How to Make the Most of Your AV Budget
For event planners and business leaders looking to maximize their AV investment, here are three key takeaways:
Start Planning Early: Last-minute AV decisions often lead to higher costs and limited options. The earlier you engage an AV production partner, the better the results.
Prioritize the Attendee Experience: Whether through high-quality sound, impactful visuals, or engaging content, AV should be used to enhance the overall event journey.
Invest in the Right Partner: A strong AV partner doesn’t just provide equipment; they bring expertise, creativity, and technical precision to execute a flawless event.
Final Thoughts
In 2025, AV isn’t just an expense—it’s an investment in audience connection, engagement, and long-term event success. The best events are the ones that make people feel something, and AV is the key to delivering that unforgettable impact.
Are you ready to elevate your next event? Let’s talk about how to maximize your AV investment and create a production that wows your audience from start to finish.