ASAE unveils a new strategic framework and related initiatives. Photo Credit: AdobeStock/VERTEX SPACE
The American Society of Association Executives has approved a new strategic framework centered on advocacy, workforce development and member-driven innovation, while launching initiatives designed to strengthen the association-talent pipeline and raise awareness of the sector's value among policymakers and other stakeholders.
The framework, approved by the board during ASAE's Annual Meeting & Exposition in Indianapolis, aims to guide the organisation's priorities over the next three to five years. According to ASAE, more than 500 volunteer leaders, members and industry partners helped create the new direction through the most inclusive strategic-planning process in the organisation's history.
Under the strategy, ASAE will focus on expanding the influence of associations, helping organisations prepare for workforce and business challenges, and improving how members engage with the organisation as well as one another.
New innovation, advocacy efforts
Among the new initiatives is ASAE Labs, an innovation programme designed to bring association professionals together to test ideas and develop solutions to common challenges. Through smaller "mini-labs," members will collaborate on emerging issues and pilot approaches that could be applied across the association community.
The board also approved funding for an expanded Trust Associations campaign. Originally launched in response to federal tax proposals that threatened associations, the effort now will become a longer-term advocacy initiative. ASAE plans to use the campaign to build greater understanding among policymakers and other influencers about the role associations play in industries, professions and communities at large.
The organisation is also piloting the CAE Growth & Talent Ecosystem Initiative, addressing ongoing concerns about talent recruitment, retention and professional development across the association sector. ASAE will explore creating micro credentials tied to the knowledge areas covered by the Certified Association Executive designation, giving professionals additional ways to build skills and demonstrate expertise throughout their careers.
This article was first published by Northstar Meetings Group on 17 August 2026 and has been edited for length.
Source: Northstar Meetings Group