A partner gives us a glimpse into the future
4 May 2023
The top 67 associations for MSPs, VARs and tech channel professionals
Associations are a vital part of professional development in any field, including channel partnerships. These associations provide individuals, partner companies, vendors and distributors with the opportunity to connect with others in their industry, stay up to date on the latest trends and technologies, and collaborate on projects that can advance their careers. In this report, Canalys lists the top 67 most valuable global associations for partners, vendors and distributors.
Associations are a vital part of professional development in any field, including channel partnerships. These associations provide individuals, partner companies, vendors and distributors with the opportunity to connect with others in their industry, stay up to date on the latest trends and technologies, and collaborate on projects that can advance their careers.
In this report, Canalys lists the top 67 most valuable global associations for partners, vendors and distributors. The importance of associations for members include:
- Networking opportunities: A key benefit of joining an association is the opportunity to network with other professionals in the field. IT and telecoms are ever-evolving industries, and staying current with the latest trends and advancements is vital for career progression. By connecting with others, IT professionals can learn from each other, share knowledge and resources, and collaborate on projects. Additionally, associations often hold events and conferences where members can meet and network with other professionals from around the world.
- Professional development: Associations offer a wealth of resources for professional development. Many associations provide access to training and certification programs, as well as resources such as webinars, whitepapers and other educational materials. These can help IT professionals stay current with the latest technologies and trends in the industry, as well as learn new skills and techniques to advance their careers.
- Growth opportunities: Associations can also provide IT professionals with access to industry opportunities. For partners, this can mean finding customers exploring specific outcomes. For vendors, this can mean recruiting partners that have specific skills, coverage areas or capacity for co-innovation. Associations often conduct research and analysis to identify market trends and opportunities, and then use this information to help their members grow their businesses. Importantly, there is growing access to potential investors, and merger and acquisition opportunities, including the supporting legal, financial and coaching talent.
- Advocacy and representation: Associations can also provide advocacy and representation for IT professionals. These groups can lobby for policies and regulations that benefit the industry, as well as provide a voice for professionals when dealing with government agencies and other organizations. Additionally, associations can provide support and representation for individuals who may be facing discrimination or other challenges in the workplace. A growing number of diversity, equity and inclusion advocacy groups form as councils and communities inside associations.
- Industry recognition: Being a member of an association can also provide IT professionals with industry recognition at a national and international level. For local partners, this can pay dividends toward marketing differentiation and thought leadership. Many associations offer awards and recognition programs for outstanding professionals in the field, as well as opportunities to speak at industry events and conferences. Being recognized by an association can help IT professionals stand out in a competitive market, as well as build their professional reputation, visibility and credibility.
- Community and support: Associations can provide IT professionals with a sense of community and support. Working in the technology and telco industry can be isolating at times, and being a member of an association can help individuals connect with others who share their interests and challenges. Associations often have online forums, peer groups and other resources for members to ask questions, share ideas and seek advice from other professionals in the field.
Associations play a vital role in bringing together influence in the technology industry. Partners, vendors and distributors all participate in a neutral, usually not-for-profit environment for mutual advantage. From networking opportunities to professional development resources, job opportunities, advocacy and representation, industry recognition, and community and support, there are many benefits for anyone in the channel to be a member of an association.
The top 67 associations for MSPs, VARs and tech channel professionals
|
Association |
Founded |
Members |
Location |
Principal |
Social |
|
A3 – Association for Advancing Automation – The leading global automation trade association of the robotics, machine vision, motion control and industrial AI industries. Describes itself as the “hub for all automation resources: products, partners, new applications, training and information on the latest technologies.” |
1974 |
20,000 |
Ann Arbor, MI |
Jeff Burnstein |
|
|
ACM – Association for Computing Machinery – ACM, the Association for Computing Machinery, is the world’s largest educational and scientific computing society, uniting educators, researchers and professionals to inspire dialogue, share resources and address the field’s challenges. |
1947 |
100,000 |
New York, NY |
Ryen White |
|
|
ACS – Australian Computer Society – Established for over 50 years, ACS is a highly successful not-for-profit, serving 40,000+ members across the technology sector. With a vision for Australia to be a world leader in technology talent, ACS is growing in response to the exponential acceleration of technology adoption. |
1966 |
43,000 |
Sydney, NSW |
Pavlo Dovgay |
|
|
AFCEA – Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association – AFCEA International is a non-profit organization serving its members by providing a forum for the exploration of issues relevant to its members in IT, communications and electronics for the defense, homeland security and intelligence communities. |
1946 |
31,000 |
Fairfax, VA |
Susan Lawrence |
|
|
ASAP – Association of Strategic Alliance Professionals – ASAP is the only non-profit, professional community with members around the world dedicated to alliance management who seek successful outcomes for strategic alliances, partnerships, ecosystems and key channel partner relationships. |
1998 |
4,874 |
Canton, MA |
Mike Leonetti |
|
|
ASCDI – Association of Service, Communications, Data and ITAD Providers – The Association of Service, Communications, Data and ITAD Providers (ASCDI) is an international non-profit trade association of IT resellers, ITAD providers and data erasure companies specializing in the circular economies involved in used technologies. |
1975 |
509 |
Delray Beach, FL |
Joe Marion |
|
|
ASCII Group – The ASCII Group is the premier community of North American MSPs, MSSPs and Solution Providers. The group has members throughout the US and Canada, and membership encompasses everyone from credentialed MSPs serving the SMB community to multi-location solution providers. |
1984 |
3,195 |
Bethesda, MD |
Alan Weinberger |
|
|
AVIXA – Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association – AVIXA is the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association, producer of InfoComm trade shows around the world, co-owner of Integrated Systems Europe and the international trade association representing the audiovisual industry. |
1939 |
11,400 |
Fairfax, VA |
David Labuskes |
|
|
AVUG – AV User Group – A community of over 1,600 members of AV end-user professionals benefiting from each other’s extensive knowledge and experiences who meet at quarterly forums in London, New York, Hong Kong and Silicon Valley. |
1996 |
1,600 |
Horsham, West Sussex |
Owen Ellis |
|
|
AWC – Association for Women in Computing – The Association for Women in Computing (AWC) was founded in Washington, DC in 1978 and is one of the first professional organizations for women in computing. The AWC is dedicated to promoting the advancement of women in the computing professions. |
1978 |
40 |
Oakland, CA |
Jill Sweeney |
|
|
BCPA – Black Channel Partner Alliance – BCPA is a wealth-building organization committed to accelerating the growth of Black innovators and Black-owned technology businesses through mentorship, coaching and community. |
2020 |
216 |
Seattle, WA |
Nyasha Tunduwani |
|
|
BCS – British Computer Society –BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, is on a mission to support the people working in the IT industry and help them build a safe and bright digital future for everyone in society. |
1957 |
60,000 |
London, UK |
Matt Ford |
|
|
BICSI – Building Industry Consulting Service International – BICSI is a professional association supporting the information technology systems (ITS) industry. ITS covers the spectrum of voice, data, electronic safety and security, and audio and video technologies. BICSI membership spans nearly 90 countries. |
1977 |
27,000 |
Tampa, FL |
John Clark |
|
|
BTA – Business Technology Association – The Business Technology Association (BTA) serves office technology dealerships, resellers, manufacturers, distributors and service companies. Its core members – office technology dealerships – consult, provide services and sell hardware, software and supplies. |
1926 |
1,453 |
Kansas City, MO |
Valerie Briseno, MBA |
|
|
CCA – Cloud Communications Alliance – The CCA is comprised of executives from cloud communication companies. The alliance provides executive leaders from all over the world with a forum to come together and discuss key topics and trends. |
2007 |
200 |
Delray Beach, FL |
Spencer Wolfe |
|
|
CEDIA – Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association – CEDIA is the global trade association and central point for member companies that design, manufacture and install technology for the home. CEDIA is committed to helping members at every level set a pathway to prosperity by offering industry-leading education, training and certification. |
1989 |
13,831 |
Fishers, IN |
Jessica Guyon |
|
|
CIPS – Canadian Information Processing Society – CIPS is a professional association of individual IT professionals. Since 1958, CIPS has helped strengthen the Canadian IT industry by establishing standards and sharing best practices for the benefit of individual IT professionals and the sector as a whole. |
1958 |
20,000 |
Mississauga, Ontario |
Lyle McFadyen |
|
|
CNCF – Cloud Native Computing Foundation – The Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) hosts critical components of software stacks, including Kubernetes and Prometheus; brings together the industry’s top developers, end users, and vendors; and serves as a neutral home for collaboration. CNCF is part of The Linux Foundation. |
2015 |
750 |
San Francisco, CA |
Priyanka Sharma |
|
|
CompTIA – Computing Technology Industry Association – CompTIA is the voice of the world’s IT industry. Its members are the companies at the forefront of innovation, and the professionals responsible for maximizing the benefits organizations receive from their investments in technology. |
1982 |
35,000 |
Downers Grove, IL |
Todd Thibodeaux |
|
|
ContactCenterWorld – Discover the next generation of customer experience with ContactCenterWorld. With 215,000 members in 200 countries, it organizes awards and conferences in the CX industry every year. |
1999 |
200,000 |
Thunder Bay, Ontario |
Raj Wadhwani |
|
|
CSA – Cloud Software Association – Known as the SaaS Partnership Network, an association of companies selling cloud software: SaaS vendors, channels, distributors, resellers, media and investors come together to build the market for SaaS distribution. |
2009 |
5,500 |
San Francisco, CA |
Lindsey Ward |
|
|
CTA – Consumer Tech Association – CTA is the trade association representing the US$505 billion US consumer technology industry, which supports more than 18 million US jobs. Producers of the CES Events. |
2009 |
3,984 |
Philadelphia, PA |
Margaret Roth Falzon |
|
|
DSF – Digital Signage Federation – The not-for-profit independent voice of the digital signage industry, reflecting the diverse constituencies that make up the industry. Its goal is to continue building a strong foundation for the advancement of the industry. |
2010 |
4,273 |
Warrenton, VA |
Wayne Rasor |
|
|
ETMA – Enterprise Technology Management Association – ETMA is an independent non-profit association that was established by solutions providers for solutions providers. Through its executive board, solutions providers set the association’s agenda and priorities. All actions are designed to serve member companies, not to profit from them. |
2006 |
60 |
Phoenix, AZ |
Joe Basili |
Twitter |
|
FinOps – Financial Operations – The FinOps Foundation is dedicated to advancing people who practice the discipline of cloud financial management through best practices, education and standards. The FinOps Foundation is an 8,700+ strong community, representing more than 3,500+ companies. |
2019 |
8,700 |
Portland, OR |
J R Storment |
|
|
FISPA – Fiber Internet Service Providers of America – FISPA, Inc is the telecommunications industry’s only nationwide organization dedicated specifically to serving CLECs, WISPs and ISPs. Members rely on FISPA for both education in news and industry trends as well as advocacy for regulatory issues that affect their businesses. |
1996 |
60 |
Roswell, GA |
Daniel Friesen |
|
|
GCN – Global Channel Network – GCN Group is the largest channel network of local IT distributors around the world supporting each other through one single platform to fuel ongoing marketplace success. Its mission is to lead the integration and collaboration of all members of the B2B channel through digital transformation. |
2017 |
2,349 |
Barcelona, Spain |
Miquel Rey |
|
|
GITA – Global IT Alliance – The Global IT Alliance was formed as a partnership between carefully selected, OEM validated, professional IT partners. The Alliance enables them to serve multinational organizations, regardless of where on the globe they do business. |
2013 |
1,331 |
Neckarsulm, Baden-Württemberg |
Yasin Filiz |
|
|
GTDC – Global Technology Distribution Council – GTDC is the source for distribution industry insight, backed by actual sales-out data of its members – representing more than US$150 billion in product and services business worldwide. GTDC members are the largest and most successful distributors, covering 95% of the world, across 187 countries. |
1998 |
250 |
Tampa, FL |
Frank Vitagliano |
|
|
HIMSS – Healthcare Information and Management Society – HIMSS is a global advisor, thought leader and member-based society committed to reforming the global health ecosystem through the power of information and technology. As a mission-driven non-profit, HIMSS offers a unique depth and breadth of expertise in health innovation. |
1961 |
120,000 |
Chicago, IL |
Hal Wolf |
|
|
IAITAM – International Association of IT Asset Managers – IAITAM is the professional association for individuals and organizations involved in any aspect of IT Asset Management (ITAM), Software Asset Management (SAM), Hardware Asset Management (HAM) and the lifecycle processes in organizations of every size and industry around the world. |
2016 |
1,756 |
San Jose, CA |
Thomas Oh |
|
|
IAMCP – International Association of Microsoft Channel Partners – IAMCP represents Microsoft’s best of breed partners from around the world. They provide Microsoft Partners with a voice into Microsoft programs, to the IT community at large, as well as a vehicle to facilitate mutual growth and business development among partners. |
1994 |
3,987 |
Irving, TX |
Sergio Baptista |
|
|
IEEE – Computer Society – IEEE Computer Society engages computer engineers, scientists, academia and industry professionals from all areas of computing to set the standard for the education and engagement that fuels continued global technological advancement. |
1946 |
60,000 |
Los Alamitos, CA |
Md Mahin |
|
|
IET – Institution of Engineering and Technology – The IET is one of the world’s largest engineering institutions with 169,000 members in over 150 countries. The IET is working to engineer a better world by inspiring, informing and influencing members, engineers and technicians, and all those who are touched by, or touch, the work of engineers. |
1871 |
169,000 |
London, UK |
Syed Anas Ali |
|
|
IFIP – International Federation for Information Processing – IFIP is the leading global professional association for people working in Information and Communications Technologies and Sciences. Recognized by the United Nations, IFIP represents ICT professional associations from 56 countries and regions with a total membership of over half a million. |
1960 |
500,000 |
Vienna, Laxenburg |
Lynn Robert Carter |
|
|
IHDA – International Hardware Distributors Association – IHDA offers a wide variety of publications and videos to help members more effectively identify trends, improve efficiency and enhance profitability. In most cases, IHDA offers the materials at a lower price than members would be able to obtain them from their original sources. |
1907 |
1,798 |
Chicago, IL |
Lawyer Khaled ALSmairi |
|
|
IITPSA – Institute of Information Technology Professionals South Africa – IITPSA is a professional body, recognized by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). The Institute has a long and proud history of service to, and representation of, South Africa’s ICT professionals and practitioners, attracting a broad and active membership from all levels of the ICT Industry. |
1996 |
31,722 |
Johannesburg, South Africa |
Vincent Matinde |
|
|
INCOMPAS – Internet and Competitive Networks Association – INCOMPAS is the leading trade association for the competitive networks. INCOMPAS represents communications and technology companies large and small, advocating for laws and policies that promote competition, innovation and economic development. |
1981 |
150 |
Washington, DC |
Chip Pickering |
|
|
INSIC – Information Storage Industry Consortium – The Information Storage Industry Consortium (INSIC) is the research consortium for the worldwide information storage industry. INSIC membership consists of corporations, universities and government organizations with common interests in the field of digital information storage. |
1991 |
15 |
San Diego, CA |
Paul Frank |
|
|
IoTSSA – IOT Security Services Association – The IoTSSA channel community connects industry security experts and vendors with IT service providers focused on being at the forefront of cybersecurity education, threats and service delivery. Cybersecurity represents both a challenge and opportunity for IT service providers. |
2017 |
2,090 |
Irvine, CA |
Sheila Phillips |
|
|
IRPA AI – Institute for RPA & AI – IRPA AI is an independent professional association and knowledge forum for the buyers, sellers, influencers and analysts of robotic process automation, cognitive computing and artificial intelligence. |
2013 |
130,000 |
New York, NY |
Daniel Goodstein |
|
|
ISACA – Information Systems Audit and Control Association – ISACA helps business and IT leaders maximize value and manage risk related to information and technology. The non-profit, independent ISACA is an advocate for professionals involved in information security, assurance, risk management and governance. |
1967 |
194,920 |
Schaumburg, IL |
Jay Masino |
|
|
ISODA – Infotech Software Dealers Association – ISODA is a network of IT companies that services 15,000+ customers across 50+ cities with a ground force of more than 20,000 people. It is one of the biggest networks in India. |
2009 |
678 |
Mumbai, India |
Satya Priya Das |
|
|
ITP – IT Professionals NZ – ITP is a community of tech professionals who care deeply about professional practice. With thousands of members throughout New Zealand and direct relationships with government, academia and the industry, ITP is the authoritative voice of the Information Technology profession. |
1960 |
649 |
Wellington, New Zealand |
Jens Freudenberg |
|
|
Linux Foundation – The Linux Foundation is the organization of choice for the world’s top developers and companies to build ecosystems that accelerate open technology development and commercial adoption. |
2007 |
17,000 |
San Francisco, CA |
Jim Zemlin |
|
|
MPSA – Managed Print Services Association – The MPSA is a global non-profit association that provides education, research and best practices to help organizations actively manage and optimize their document output devices and related business processes. |
2009 |
2,259 |
Milwaukee, WI |
Tawnya Stone |
|
|
MSP Alliance – International Association of Cloud and Managed Service Providers – MSPAlliance is a standards and certification organization for the Managed IT Services profession. MSPAlliance has over 30,000 members worldwide. MSPAlliance has members in Western Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, and Central and Latin America. |
2000 |
30,000 |
Chapel Hill, NC |
Charles Weaver |
|
|
MSPAA – MSP Association of America – Brings together a unified voice that has been designed to empower MSPs to succeed in the marketplace while giving access to a national database of providers that have been verified in their field. |
2021 |
100 |
Boulder, CO |
Dave Jooste |
|
|
NAIC-ISAO – National Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Information Sharing and Analysis Standards Organization – The NAIC-ISAO aims to improve the US’s cybersecurity posture by identifying standards and guidelines for robust and effective information sharing related to cybersecurity risks, incidents and best practices. It wants to create a more secure and resilient nation that is connected, informed and empowered. |
2015 |
494 |
San Antonio, TX |
Larry Sjelin |
|
|
NATM Buying Corporation – NATM Buying Corporation is a national buying co-op representing 11 regional retailers in the appliance and electronics industry. NATM coordinates the buying and merchandising strategies for its members and provides a forum for the exchange of ideas. |
1970 |
11 |
New York, NY |
Scott Hymas |
|
|
NMG – Nationwide Marketing Group – Nationwide Marketing Group works on behalf of thousands of independent retailers, rent-to-own dealers and custom installers to help them grow their businesses and thrive on their own terms. |
1971 |
8,318 |
Winston-Salem, NC |
Nicole Calixtro |
|
|
NPA – Network Professional Association – NPA is the leading organization for network computing professionals. To be identified as true professionals, the NPA’s international membership adheres to a code of ethics, continually demonstrated professional development, and adherence to and knowledge of the latest best practice standards. |
1993 |
50 |
San Diego, CA |
Dave Bradette |
|
|
NSCA – National Systems Contractors Association – The National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA) is the leading not-for-profit association representing the commercial integration industry. The National Systems Contractors Association is a powerful advocate for all who work in the integration industry. |
1974 |
2,500 |
Fairfield, NJ |
Joel Liffick |
|
|
NSITSP – National Society of IT Solution Providers – A professional association representing SMB IT consultants, with a focus on education, professionalism and promoting the interests of IT professionals everywhere. |
2021 |
283 |
Sacramento, CA |
Larry Mandelberg |
|
|
PACE – Professional Association for Customer Engagement – The only non-profit trade association dedicated exclusively to the advancement of companies that engage with customers via the contact center. |
1997 |
1,137 |
Rosemont, IL |
Sam Falletta |
|
|
PSA Security Network – PSA is made up of the most progressive security and audio-visual systems integrators in North America. It offers best-in-class products and services, premier education, and industry-leading buying terms. |
1974 |
13,500 |
Dallas, TX |
Mark Allen |
|
|
PSNI – Professional Systems Network International – PSNI Global Alliance is a network of elite technology integrators, manufacturers, distributors and service providers located throughout the world. They unite industry leaders, extend reach and provide complementing strengths and multiplying resources. |
1986 |
3,092 |
Tulsa, OK |
Hailey Klein |
|
|
RSPA – Retail Solutions Providers Association – North America’s largest community of VARs, software developers, vendors and distributors in the retail, restaurant, grocery and cannabis verticals. It is a fit for any organization that’s serious about growth in those markets. |
1948 |
3,464 |
Raleigh, NC |
Marie Perry |
|
|
SBC – Brazilian Computer Society – SBC is a non-profit scientific society, founded in 1978, which brings together students, professors, professionals, researchers and enthusiasts in the areas of computing and informatics. One of the objectives of the society is to promote access to information and culture through information technology. |
1978 |
3,437 |
Porto Alegre, Brazil |
Jéssica Paola Macedo Müller |
|
|
SCTC – Society of Communications Technology Consultants – SCTC offers information and communications technology (ICT) answers. A professional network of experienced, vendor-independent, vetted consultants has extensive knowledge and expertise to guide organizations to optimal solutions. |
1976 |
920 |
Albany, NY |
Barb Grothe |
|
|
SIA – Security Industry Association – Represents the business interests of manufacturers, service providers and integrators of electronic physical security equipment. SIA protects and advances members’ interests and produces leading-edge global market research. |
1969 |
51,146 |
Silver Spring, MD |
Cameron Walker-Miller |
|
|
SMBTN – SMB Technology Network – An organization of solutions providers, MSPs, cloud providers, VARs and technology professionals. The organization seeks to improve the quality and strength of the SMB market by providing programs to educate, network and create alliances with vendors. |
2004 |
66 |
Irvine, CA |
Dave Seibert |
|
|
TAG – Technology Assurance Group – Members integrate all technology solutions, including IT, cloud-based technologies, cybersecurity, telecommunications, AV, video surveillance, access control and managed print. |
1998 |
94 |
San Diego, CA |
Brian Suerth |
|
|
TDWI – Transforming Data With Intelligence – Has been raising the intelligence of data leaders and their teams with in-depth, applicable education and research, and an engaged worldwide membership community. Accelerates the success of members’ data management and analytics projects and careers. |
1998 |
10,000 |
Renton, WA |
Fern Halper |
|
|
TechNation Canada – Unites technology, government and community for Canada’s future. As the leading national technology industry association, TechNation proudly represents the Canadian technology companies that are changing the world through innovation, creativity and ingenuity. |
2004 |
700 |
Mississauga, ON |
Julie Brouard |
|
|
Telecom Council –Where telecom meets innovation. Through the ComTech Forum, Service Provider Forum, IoT Forum and Investor Forum, Telecom Council connects the companies that are building communication networks with the people and ideas that are creating them. |
2001 |
3,925 |
Sunnyvale, CA |
Linda Hull |
|
|
The IT Business Owners Group – The IT Business Owners Group was created on social media to create a common channel for IT business owners to collaborate with each other and the vendors of the products they sell and support. They pride themselves on being a unique and valuable resource for business owners and vendors. |
2015 |
278 |
Columbia, SC |
Scott Sanders |
