No matter your sector, there is guaranteed to be trade associations that align with your business and can help you grow your business. (We are not talking about trade unions, which are organizations of workers concerned with improving their working conditions). Professional trade associations run the gamut from health and wellness services, restaurants, transportation, engineering disciplines to accounting, marketing, biological sciences, fashion, and everything that needs to be manufactured. If you are a media expert, beekeeper, geriatric nurse or purchasing agent, there is an association aligned with your business. There are over 25,000 national associations listed in the 3,000+ page, authoritative Encyclopedia of Associations, published by Gale Research. You can access it here or at your public library.

Did you know that association memberships are tax deductible as long as they are related to your business sector?

A trade association brings you the overfamiliar opportunity to network but so much more. These nonprofit organizations have mission and goals to advance their sector in terms of advocating for relevant legislation to assist members, educate these members about the latest trends and issues in the sector, and provide valuable resources to keep professionals at the top of their game. You can even find associations based on gender (women in Engineering; Women in Manufacturing; Women in Construction) and ethnicity.

Here are several benefits of joining as a business owner:

  • Keep abreast of industry trends and the competition through member publications and local meetings.
  • Attending annual and chapter meetings to find potential partners, prime or subcontractors, and referrals.
  • Meet suppliers and vendors who could present cost-saving measures to shore up your operating costs.
  • Gain more credibility and recognition of expertise from current and prospective clients by posting membership status on your website.
  • Demonstrate your knowledge by presenting a paper at an association event. (Papers are reviewed by selected members in your field.)
  • Sponsor dinners and events to members, showcasing your business (often listed as a benefit of membership).
  • Help influence legislation and policies to improve your industry.
  • Take advantage of special interest groups within the association to add to your knowledge base.
  • Continue your professional development through certification (where offered) and courses at reduced member pricing.
  • Mentor younger members to share your expertise and contribute to the future of your sector.