This timely research is part of ASAE’s ongoing Insight Update series – an exclusive pulse of the association sector designed to equip leaders with actionable, nonpartisan data for strategic decision-making. The latest survey was distributed to 3,047 CEOs of associations and association management companies (AMCs), with 164 responses analyzed.

Key Findings Include: 

• Opportunities Amid Uncertainty: While many leaders are concerned about risk, associations are identifying new opportunities through stronger advocacy, deregulation benefits, and cross-sector partnerships.
• Federal Funding Worries: Reductions in government grants—especially in research, healthcare, and education—are creating widespread anxiety.
• Trade & Economic Pressures: Tariffs, international trade disruptions, and inflation are straining supply chains and driving up business costs.
• A Cautious Outlook: Many organizations are taking a “wait-and-see” approach amid ongoing policy ambiguity and political gridlock.
• Sector-Specific Impacts: The extent of impact varies by sector, with healthcare, education, and research-based organizations among the hardest hit.

“Associations are on the front lines of navigating the ripple effects of federal policy shifts across every sector of the economy,” said ASAE President and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “This Insight Update underscores the importance of timely, data-driven intelligence to help association leaders anticipate challenges, seize opportunities, and advocate effectively for the industries and professions they serve.”

ASAE will continue to track emerging trends and share valuable insights to support informed planning, responsive leadership, and the long-term strength of the association community. Gain deeper insights by downloading the full report, available free to ASAE members.

MEDIA CONTACT: Chris Vest, CAE, 202-626-2798, cvest@asaecenter.org

About ASAE

ASAE is a membership organization of more than 50,000 association executives and industry partners. Since it was established 105 years ago, its members have and continue to lead, manage, and work in or partner with organizations in more than a dozen association management disciplines, from executive management to finance to technology. With the support of the ASAE Research Foundation, a separate nonprofit entity, ASAE is the premier source of learning, knowledge, and future-oriented research for the association and nonprofit profession and provides resources, education, ideas, and advocacy to enhance the power and performance of the association and nonprofit community. Visit ASAE at Welcome to ASAE — American Society of Association Executives (asaecenter.org)