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 [email protected] 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
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