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