What message is Amsterdam trying to send?

So IBC celebrates its 40th anniversary by dishing out awards at the back of the Onyx lounge at IBC (not really designed for awards ceremonies, but still). CNN, BBC, ITN, RTL all take home prizes. It is sponsored by IAmsterdam, who unfortunately are unable to send anyone from the Mayor's office to attend. The sponsor's table is empty. Not invented here syndrome or what???