Associations : Global Trends, Facts and Figures

The associations that we talk about in this paper enable rational aggregation of people or corporations interested in the same kind of profession, social issue, or business. These groups often center their activities on promoting new things, lobbying, establishing clear standard operational procedures, capacity building, or even providing the platform for interacting with others in that particular industry. There are associations in various sectors, with some examples including the medical field, technology, academia, management, and commerce, among others.

From the perspective of the global association industry, the association's market is, in reality, extremely large. There are millions of professional and trade associations worldwide. There are an estimated three million such associations worldwide, mainly concentrated in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The associations sector is worth a few billion dollars; mainly coming from the revenues of the memberships, sponserships, gatherings and their programs.


Associations Industry


Overview

The associations that we talk about in this paper enable rational aggregation of people or corporations interested in the same kind of profession, social issue, or business. These groups often center their activities on promoting new things, lobbying, establishing clear standard operational procedures, capacity building, or even providing the platform for interacting with others in that particular industry. There are associations in various sectors, with some examples including the medical field, technology, academia, management, and commerce, among others.

From the perspective of the global association industry, the association's market is, in reality, extremely large. There are millions of professional and trade associations worldwide. There are an estimated three million such associations worldwide, mainly concentrated in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. The associations sector is worth a few billion dollars; mainly coming from the revenues of the memberships, sponserships, gatherings and their programs.

Types & Definition

An association is an organization formed of a group of people having a common professional, trade, business, or philanthropic interest. These organizations build relationships among the members, help them in promoting their work, provide knowledge, and offer training and participation in diverse civic activities.

1. Professional associations: those that cater to specific professional occupations (e.g., American Medical Association, IEEE).
2. Trade associations: This caters to specific industries (e.g., National Retail Federation, U.S. Chamber of Commerce).
3. Nonprofit/social NPOS: These NPOS focus on social issues (e.g., Red Cross, World Wildlife Fund).
4. Educational and Academic Associations: Engage in research and learning (e.g., American Educational Research Association).
5. Patron-customer member-based organizations: such as AAA and AARP: offer specific membership advantages.

Industry Trends

1. Components that AI and automation have changed: Artificial intelligence platforms provide better member services than the traditional system, enabling associations to perform operational tasks.
2. Diversity and inclusion programs, leadership, and membership diversity: Imperatively, more emphasis is placed on leadership inclusion, and without membership inclusion, the theory cannot hold.
3. Organizations are increasing their data usage for better data: driven decision-making: they are using improved data analysis tools to gain a deeper understanding of their membership organizations.
4. Alignment of Business Strategies to the Sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Objectives: Some associations are meeting the sustainability goals.
5. Multiple Revolutionary Subscription and Membership Models: For example, free trials or free memberships in a limited time frame apart from the premium benefits that are given to ultimate category members.

Facts & Insights

Associations are shifting to digital platforms: utilizing digital platforms, big data, and AI to allow for increased engagement.
The increase in Sustainable Environment: ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) activities is of great concern to many organizations.
shift in activities (conferences and events)Currently, virtual conferences and events during the post-pandemic period are the standards.
Further Geographical Expansion: associations are moving toward growth in Africa and South Asia.

Market Segment

Member Source: Individual, Corporate, Blended
Revenue Source: Subscription, Events, Sponsorships, Grants
Sector: health, commerce, learning, metals, and social welfare
Regions: North and South America, Europe, Asia, South America, and Africa.

Industry Leader

American Medical Association (AMA): for medicine and healthcare.
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE): related to the technology and engineering.
World Economic Forum (WEF): means business and economics.
National Association of Manufacturers (NAM): favor trade and industry.
Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP): specialists in nonprofits and charity fundraising.


Frequently Asked Questions

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the World Economic Forum (WEF) are among the biggest associations in the world.
Income in this sector comes through membership, sponsorship, grants, education, and events.
Technologies such as digital tools, member interaction automation, virtual events, and analytics are improving associations.
Countless issues challenging this sector include shrinking membership, economic instability, use of technology, and changes in the regulatory framework.
The focus of growth will be on advancing marketing through digital channels, embracing ESG, and expanding internationally.