Allied Associations Program

NCIA’s Allied Associations Program (“AAP”) facilitates cooperation between NCIA and Allied Associations and the sharing of resources for the mutual benefit of our respective memberships and the cannabis industry more broadly. The AAP provides the means for the leaders and staff of NCIA and Allied Associations to learn from, work with, and support each other.

As the largest and most established cannabis trade association, NCIA is proud to help other associations thrive and provide as much value as possible for their members. In return, Allied Associations benefit NCIA’s national efforts by providing their expertise and insights into their respective regions or industry sectors in order to most effectively advance the industry’s broader policy goals.

The ultimate goal of the AAP is to develop closer relationships between NCIA and other cannabis trade associations to harness our collective knowledge and work together to advance the cannabis industry.

Learn more about the AAP

Networking Highlight - QCC18Q1PNW - Troutdale, OR

AAP Eligibility Requirements

Existing Associations

Existing associations must have an operating history of at least one year; dues-paying membership of at least twenty (20) members; an elected board of directors; nonprofit Articles of Incorporation filed with the state in which they operate; and duly adopted, written bylaws.

Startup Associations

Startup associations must have an operating history of less than one year; a board of directors, either elected or appointed by the incorporator; volunteers or staff committed to building the association (in lieu of members); nonprofit Articles of Incorporation filed with the state in which they operate; duly adopted, written bylaws; and a demonstrated need for the association in that particular area - geographic, professional, or sector.

Agree to the MOU

Our commitment to the Allied Associations is outlined in the AAP Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”), along with what is required of each association, although our goal is to exceed our initial commitments.

Incubator Program

NCIA is in the process of developing an incubator program to assist people who want to start trade associations in areas where a need exists. Until that program is fully developed, we are still happy to assist you. If you are interested in starting a trade association that could develop into an Allied Association, click on the "Learn more about the AAP" link above. Before contacting us, please read through the link on "How to start an association" below so you fully understand the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How the AAP works

Associations who participate in the AAP are considered Allied Associations – cooperating and sharing for mutual benefit. The program is complimentary for Allied Associations in exchange for minimal effort on the part of the association that mostly centers around maintaining open communications, coordination on any federal efforts the association may wish to pursue, and assisting NCIA with some outreach in the association’s area.

The AAP is not an exclusive group, but instead is meant to provide an inherent value to whatever associations participate. Associations that participate in the AAP and display the AAP Logo are demonstrating to their members and the public that they go above and beyond to make their associations as effective as possible.

What is required to join?

Participation in the AAP is open to all cannabis industry focused trade associations that are already existing larger associations or startup associations that have been around for less than a year but are properly formed and operating. We are also willing to work with those who wish to start a new association where a need exists to become full trade associations that will turn into qualifying associations.

Are Allied Associations affiliates of NCIA?

The AAP is not an affiliation program and Allied Associations are not considered affiliates, chapters, or subsidiaries of NCIA. (NCIA no longer has any state affiliates but instead now purely works with independent state trade associations through the AAP.) NCIA does not endorse any Allied Association, beyond recognition that it is making the effort to be a valuable association to its members, nor does membership in the AAP and endorsement by NCIA of the Allied Association’s policies or political positions.

Why should my association join the AAP?

Two (2) complimentary passes for the association to all of our events.
Listing on directory and calendar on our website – with link from our newsletter.
Ability to be featured in a blog post, or contributing content with credit to your association.
Networking with other associations around the country, via online community, monthly meetings, networking events.
Assistance with any of your D.C. lobbying efforts.
Connection to NCIA’s committees
Periodic updates from our government relations team