Fallout from federal layoffs, firings, cutbacks, policy reversals and funding cancellations continue to bedevil U.S. associations across diverse sectors. The latest Insight Update report from American Society for Association Executives (ASAE), based on survey data from over 200 association CEOs, highlights how the ripple effects of federal actions are reshaping association meeting attendance, particularly international participation.
ASAE detailed the key findings.
- Decline in meeting attendees: Half of respondents reported decreased attendance at their meetings, although participation from speakers, exhibitors and sponsors has so far remained “relatively stable.”
- Exhibitor resilience: More than two-thirds of associations reported no change.
- Professional associations hit hardest: Over half of professional and combined associations reported declines, while trade associations saw fewer decreases—and a higher percentage of increases, at 14.5%—than any other group.
- International participation falloff: Attendance decline is most evident from Canada, Europe and Central Asia—regions historically well represented at U.S.-based events.
- Innovation in response: Associations are adapting by revisiting virtual and hybrid formats, shortening events, and renegotiating venue contracts to manage rising costs and uncertainty.
Learn more: ASAE Survey: Associations Feel the Pain of Trump’s Actions
“These findings underscore how external forces are compelling associations to reimagine events in ways that prioritize member value, accessibility and flexibility,” said ASAE president and CEO Michelle Mason, FASAE, CAE. “While the environment is undeniably challenging, we’re also seeing incredible innovation and resilience across the community.”
ASAE is a membership organization of more than 50,000 association executives and industry partners.
