Working together to strengthen the voice of associations— and the communities they serve—across the Empire State.

Did You Know? 

NYS associations make broad contributions to the state:
  • They create jobs.
  • They are leaders in professional and workforce development. 
  • They are a significant part of the meetings industry—hosting a wide range of conventions, conferences, meetings and seminars.
  • They enrich communities and create positive change.
  • They bring deep wells of expertise and knowledge—helping NYS to be a leader in the nation and enhance the collective quality of life in the Empire State.  

Associations Support & Improve New York’s Economy & Outlook

Data sourced from ASAE’s 2024 National Economic Impact Study*

 *American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) “The Power of A” - https://powerofassociations.org/

 New York State Snapshot

- 1,082 Associations
- 19,755 Jobs
- $1.278 Billion in Wages
- $1.333 Billion in State & Local Taxes

Why it Matters

- Job Creation: Nearly 20,000 New Yorkers are employed by associations.
- Economic Impact: Associations infuse over $1.2 billion in wages and generate over $1.3 billion in local and state taxes annually.
- Meeting Industry Leadership: Associations organize events that support hospitality and tourism industries.

National Context

- 1.1 million jobs supported by associations across the U.S.
- $71.4 billion in wages nationally
- $43 billion in local community spending generated by association meetings
- $27.4 billion in taxes contributed (federal, state, and local)

Associations Advance the Workforce & Inform Public Policy

Associations = Workforce Development

Each year, associations provide post-college education, certifications, and training that help individuals succeed and industries thrive. These include:
- Training for workforce advancement
- Industry-recognized credentials
- Professional standards for ethical and effective practice

Civic Engagement & Government Partnership

Associations exist in virtually every sector — healthcare, education, construction, tourism, science, and more. They:
- Represent everyday professionals and small businesses across New York
- Offer subject-matter expertise to policymakers
- Help government craft better laws and regulations
- Serve as connective tissue between state agencies and the people they serve

Advocacy by the Numbers

- 7 in 10 adults belong to at least one association
- 450,000+ meetings held annually by associations in the U.S.
- 86 million participants supported by association events
- 88% of associations host annual meetings or exhibitions
- 52% host additional events throughout the year

About the Association Communities in New York State:

Empire State Society of Association Executives (ESSAE)
Founded in 1979, ESSAE represents over 420 members across New York State and provides continuing education, leadership development, and standards-setting for association professionals.
Albany, NY | www.essae.org | 518.313.7167
Carrie Laney, Executive Director at executive@essae.org

Metro New York Society of Association Executives (Metro NYSAE)
Founded in 1919, Metro NYSAE empowers association leaders throughout New York City, New Jersey, and Connecticut, representing every sector of not-for-profit and professional life. New York, NY | www.metronysae.org