The association said recent counts show that as many as 4,000 people will attend the group's annual meeting, which runs through Tuesday at the Hawai'i Convention Center.

The group includes meeting and convention planners and decision-makers. The event is considered a prime opportunity for the state to show off the convention center and the Islands as a place to do business.

Association members who'd be choosing Hawai'i for conventions could significantly contribute to the state's economy.

"We believe it's going to provide a huge boost to our local economy for years to come," said Hawai'i Tourism Authority executive director Rex Johnson. "They will book the conventions for us."

During their Honolulu trip, the conventioneers are expected to generate $10.5 million in visitor spending and about $885,000 in state tax revenue.

Organizers estimate that conventions and meetings booked by participants could bring as much as $1.3 billion to the economy over the next five years.

"You'll get business. You'll start to see it right away," said Red Cavaney, chairman of the American Society of Association Executives.

John H. Graham, ASAE's president and chief executive, said some people at the convention may even decide on the spot to hold meetings in Honolulu.

At a press conference yesterday, ASAE donated a painting of Waikiki to the city.

"What many people don't know is we are a great city to do business," said Mayor Jeremy Harris. "We think we have many wonderful things to show these 4,000 members when they come."