Association Survey Shows Budget Constraints as Main Membership Challenge

Tuesday, 25.02.2025

The latest Association Membership and Services Survey by Associations Forum reveals that budget constraints remain the primary reason for membership non-renewals, with a significant increase compared to the previous year, while over half of participating organizations have raised their membership fees.

Cover page of Association Survey 2025 featuring purple design, network visualization, and charts showing membership structure and cancellation reason

Association Membership and Services Survey 2025 Findings Released. Screenshot: Associations Forum

The 2025 survey, analyzing responses from 191 organizations, shows that 69.1% of members cite budget constraints as the main reason for not renewing their membership – a 10% increase from the previous year. Secondary factors include retirement and lack of perceived value.

Membership Fees and Staffing Trends

51.3% of participating organizations have increased their membership fees, while 48.2% maintained current rates
The average number of full-time equivalent staff has decreased by 21% to 14.9 employees, compared to 18.8 in the previous year
Professional associations experienced the largest staff reduction, dropping from 19.6 to 13.3 employees
The median number of full-time staff remains stable at 5 employees

Survey Background and Availability

The survey, conducted annually for 16 years by Associations Forum, serves as a benchmark for the association sector. It examines trends and adaptations in member services across various associations and charities. The complete report is available free for Associations Forum members, while non-profit organizations can purchase it for $200.