Engaging with diverse organizations, communities, and associations is crucial for fostering growth and sustainability in any business. These affiliations provide a network of support, valuable insights, and collaborative opportunities that contribute to the overall success of the enterprise. By actively participating in these networks, businesses can tap into a wealth of resources and expertise, creating a robust foundation for innovation and development.
We asked entrepreneurs and businesses what organizations, communities, or associations they belong to that help support their businesses, and here are the responses.
#1- Local Estonian, Finnish, and Scandinavian communities
As an entrepreneur and business owner based in New York City, my engagement with local Estonian, Finnish, and Scandinavian communities has been instrumental in supporting and enriching my business endeavors. The New York Estonian House, for instance, has been a pivotal platform for networking and cultural exchange. Additionally, I am actively involved with the Scandinavian community through organizations like the American Scandinavian Foundation.
Thanks to Valev Laube, The VL Studios!
#2- Members of the AIPP & IMC
We are members of the Association of International Property Professionals & the Investment Migration Council. Membership with these esteemed organizations comes with many benefits, helping us to establish our professionalism & expertise while reaching a global audience. In addition to the training & educational resources we can access, membership also opens the gateway to networking opportunities, referrals, & partnerships.
Thanks to Guy Sharp, Andorra Guides!
#3- Online Social Butterfly
In 2023, I was a new member of our local business association, Wanneroo Business Association, whilst also working out of our local co-working hub, Y-hub. I made an effort to attend events, get involved with running a coffee & connect session, and connect with some amazing fellow biz owners, including joining a mastermind with Online Social Butterfly. I had some key people support me and my business last year in the way of taking an interest in me and my business. I have immense value to offer to our local businesses.
Thanks to Melissa Ahlquist, Little Biz!
#4- Membership of NACAC & HECA
I've fortified my professional standing through associations with key entities in the field. My affiliations extend to the National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC) & the Higher Education Consultants Association (HECA). These memberships offer a rich reserve of resources, peer support, and ongoing professional growth in college admissions. My engagement within these communities ensures I stay abreast with the latest industry developments, thereby enabling me to deliver top-notch counsel to the students I serve.
Thanks to Eric Eng, AdmissionSight!
#5- Community Mums & Co.
I’ve shared in many different places the story about how I found out about the community Mums & Co. My dad was reading the news on his iPad and came across an article and sent me a link. At the time I’d just started my business and knew absolutely nothing about running a business or what to expect! The article happened to be about Mums & Co co-founder Carrie Kwan and the rest is history, so they say. It’s amazing how one link. One article can change everything.
Thanks to Mel Daniels, Meld Business Services!
#6- SIIA membership organization
The Self-Insurance Institute of America, Inc. (SIIA) is a membership organization that helps support my business. Their work on behalf of insurance industry companies improves the environment in which we do business. We participate in their annual conference with a booth and present our products and services. Working with SIIA helps our business to thrive.
Thanks to Tim Johnson, Health In Tech!
#7- Community of photographers
Before I built my company, I was a photographer who loved taking pictures and sharing them with people. We have a community of Photographers, & we share our pictures and techniques & help each other out in terms of photography. Being a part of this community has helped me grow as an entrepreneur in so many ways. I highly encourage other entrepreneurs and business owners to find a community that shares interests or goals similar to their company's. Being a part of such organizations can open up opportunities for collaborations, partnerships, and even potential clients.
Thanks to David Zhang, Kate Backdrop!