NYC Tourism + Conventions Unveils Ellis, an AI-Generated Chat Platform for Event Planners

New York City Tourism + Conventions (NYC Tourism) has launched Ellis, an artificial intelligence (AI) chat platform designed for business event professionals. This is the first AI chat platform of its kind, created in collaboration with Matador Network’s GuideGeek. The platform, available in 45 languages, aims to provide expert guidance and resources for meeting planners.

Ellis, named after Ellis Island, provides instant, detailed responses to queries related to event planning in NYC. This includes questions on venue options, catering services, and more. The platform is accessible via the NYC Tourism website and WhatsApp.

CEO of NYC Tourism, Julie Coker, highlighted the platform’s potential for streamlining the planning process for unique events across New York City’s five boroughs. Jerry Cito, Executive Vice President of Convention Development at NYC Tourism, echoed these sentiments, showcasing the platform’s ability to offer endless customization options for event planners.

In addition to Ellis, NYC Tourism plans to launch Libby, a consumer-facing chat platform, in the spring. Named after the Statue of Liberty, Libby will assist leisure travelers with trip planning and exploration in NYC. Notably, the AI platforms prioritize data from NYC Tourism and offer instant responses via the organization’s website and social media accounts.

Matador Network’s survey data indicates that travelers with disabilities, families with children, and LGBTQ+ travelers are more likely to use AI for travel planning. Approximately a quarter of GuideGeek users interact with the technology after reaching their destination.

The launch of these AI platforms comes as NYC prepares to host global travelers for the FIFA World Cup Final and eight matches in 2026. By 2025, business travel is expected to grow to 13.1 million, contributing to an estimated 67.1 million visitors marking a full recovery in tourism.