10 Important Facilitator Associations from Around the World and What They Offer Their Members
Facilitator associations are pivotal in shaping and developing professionals who guide groups toward achieving common goals. These organizations provide their members with valuable resources, networking opportunities, and professional development.
Companies who are serious about improving the quality of their events and internal executive development would do well to have members of their leadership team participate in one or more of these organizations.
In this article, we explore 10 important facilitator associations worldwide, highlighting what they offer their members, the benefits of joining, and essential details such as membership fees and headquarters locations.
1. International Association of Facilitators (IAF)
The International Association of Facilitators (IAF) is a globally recognized organization dedicated to promoting the power of facilitation. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, IAF supports professionals involved in facilitation through comprehensive resources, certifications, and a global network of facilitators.
Website: IAF World
Headquarters Location: Toronto, Canada
Membership Fees: Starting at USD $125 per year for individual members.
Member Benefits:
- Access to a global network of facilitation professionals.
- Discounts on certification fees and IAF events.
- Exclusive access to webinars and learning sessions.
- Directory listing in the IAF member directory.
- Free e-subscription to the IAF Journal.
2. Institute of Cultural Affairs (ICA)
With a strong focus on participatory development, the Institute of Cultural Affairs (ICA) unites facilitators worldwide to improve community and organizational outcomes. Montreal, Canada acts as the central hub for ICA, providing a range of training and collaborative opportunities.
Website: ICA International
Headquarters Location: Montreal, Canada
Membership Fees: Fees vary by regional ICA members.
Member Benefits:
- Access to training programs focused on participatory development.
- Opportunities to collaborate on international projects.
- Regular newsletters and updates on new methodologies.
- Networking events and conferences.
- Access to ICA publications and resources.
3. Facilitators Without Borders (FWB)
Facilitators Without Borders (FWB) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing facilitation services in areas that need it most around the globe. Founded on the principles of volunteerism and knowledge-sharing, FWB’s mission is to enhance the capacity of organizations and communities to address complex challenges through effective facilitation practices.
Website: FWB
Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Benefits of Membership:
- Global Network: Connect with a diverse community of facilitators dedicated to social change and development.
- Professional Development: Access to training programs that improve facilitation techniques and methodologies.
- Volunteering Opportunities: Engage in meaningful projects that have a tangible impact on communities facing crises or development challenges.
- Resource Library: Comprehensive access to tools, templates, and case studies that support effective facilitation.
Membership Fees: FWB operates primarily through volunteers and donations, making the association accessible without traditional membership fees. Contributors are encouraged to donate to support the organization’s initiatives.
4. International Forum of Visual Practitioners (IFVP)
The International Forum of Visual Practitioners (IFVP) is an essential community for professionals utilizing visual methods in facilitation. Operating out of California, USA, IFVP supports its members through resources, events, and a collaborative network of visual practitioners.
Website: IFVP
Headquarters Location: California, USA
Membership Fees: Starting at USD $125 per year.
Member Benefits:
- Access to a global community of visual practitioners.
- Listing in the IFVP directory.
- Resources and templates for visual facilitation.
- Discounts on annual conferences and workshops.
- Online discussion forums and peer support.
5. International Institute for Facilitation (INIFAC)
The International Institute for Facilitation (INIFAC) is dedicated to setting the standards for professional facilitation worldwide. Headquartered in the United States, INIFAC offers certification programs and a robust network for facilitators who seek to elevate their practice.
Website: INIFAC
Headquarters Location: United States
Membership Fees: Starting at USD $150 per year.
Member Benefits:
- Access to professional certification programs.
- Listing in the INIFAC directory of certified facilitators.
- Discounts on training materials and courses.
- Participation in peer learning events.
- Access to exclusive resources and webinars.
6. Association for Talent Development (ATD)
Previously known as the American Society for Training and Development, the Association for Talent Development (ATD) strives to empower professionals to develop talent through research and resources. Located in Alexandria, Virginia, USA, ATD provides extensive developmental tools and networking opportunities.
Website: ATD
Headquarters Location: Alexandria, Virginia, USA
Membership Fees: Starting at USD $259 per year for regular members.
Member Benefits:
- Access to professional development resources and tools.
- Discounts on conferences, certifications, and publications.
- Subscription to TD magazine.
- Networking opportunities at local chapter events.
- Access to the member-only portal with exclusive content.
7. International Association of Facilitators Australia (IAFA)
The International Association of Facilitators Australia (IAFA) extends the mission of IAF with a regional focus, providing Australian facilitators with specialized resources and development opportunities. Centered in Canberra, Australia, IAFA connects facilitators within the region to a global network.
Website: IAF Australia
Headquarters Location: Canberra, Australia
Membership Fees: Starting at AUD $195 per year.
Member Benefits:
- Professional development and networking opportunities.
- Discounts on training and certification.
- Access to a wide range of resources and toolkits.
- Participation in local facilitation events.
- Inclusion in the IAF global community.
8. The European Association of Facilitators (EAF)
The European Association of Facilitators (EAF) is a professional body that brings together facilitators from across Europe to share best practices, promote the profession, and support individual professional growth. EAF aims to create a vibrant and engaged community of facilitators who can collaborate and innovate together.
Website: EAF
Headquarters: Berlin, Germany
Benefits of Membership:
- Networking Events: Participate in events and conferences that bring facilitators together from all over Europe.
- Professional Recognition: Attain certifications and recognitions that are valued across the facilitation industry.
- Knowledge Sharing: Access to webinars, workshops, and a knowledge repository to stay updated on the latest facilitation techniques and tools.
- Community Forums: Engage in online forums and discussion groups to share experiences and seek advice from peers.
Membership Fees: Membership in EAF comes with a tiered fee structure, making it accessible for facilitators at different stages of their careers. Detailed information about fees can be found on their official website.
9. Professional Facilitators Association (PFA)
The Professional Facilitators Association (PFA) is dedicated to supporting facilitators in their practice through ongoing education and community building. With headquarters in Singapore, PFA provides members with opportunities for learning, certification, and networking.
Website: PFA
Headquarters Location: Singapore
Membership Fees: Starting at SGD $150 per year.
Member Benefits:
- Access to continuous professional development programs.
- Certifications and accreditation for facilitators.
- Directory listing for professional facilitators.
- Networking and learning events.
- Exclusive access to resources and toolkits.
10. Asia Pacific Facilitators Conference (APFC)
The Asia Pacific Facilitators Conference (APFC) brings together facilitation professionals from across the Asia Pacific region. Although it doesn’t have a permanent headquarters, APFC organizes annual events at various locations, providing critical networking and learning opportunities.
Website: APFC
Headquarters Location: Varies by conference venues (typically in the Asia Pacific region).
Membership Fees: No standard membership fees; event-based fees apply.
Member Benefits:
- Participation in annual conferences and workshops.
- Networking with facilitation professionals from the Asia Pacific region.
- Access to the latest methodologies and practices in facilitation.
- Opportunities to present and share best practices.
- Conference materials and resources.
Conclusion
Facilitator associations around the world provide significant value to their members through networking, professional development, and access to specialized resources. Joining one of these organizations can enhance your skills, broaden your professional network, and offer insights into best practices within the field.
Whether you are a seasoned professional or new to facilitation, these associations serve as a vital resource to support your career growth and development.
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References
- International Association of Facilitators (IAF):
- IAF Official Website
- Publications and webinars offered by IAF
- Institute of Cultural Affairs International (ICAI):
- ICAI Official Website
- Reports and case studies on their facilitation practices
- The Meeting Professionals International (MPI):
- MPI Official Website
- Articles and membership benefits listed on their site
- The European Association of Facilitators (EAF):
- EAF Official Page
- News updates and publications available through EAF
- The International Institute for Facilitation (INIFAC):
- INIFAC Official Website
- Certification details and resource library
- The Canadian Institute of Cultural Affairs (ICA Canada):
- ICA Canada Official Site
- Programs and training information on their website
- The Australasian Facilitators Network (AFN):
- AFN Official Website
- Events and member resources listed on their site
- Facilitators Association of Minneapolis and St. Paul (Facilitators MSP):
- Facilitators MSP Official Page
- Meeting summaries and facilitation resources
- The Brazilian Association of Facilitators (ABRAPAF):
- ABRAPAF Official Website
- Articles and membership details provided online
- Facilitators Without Borders (FWB):
- FWB Official Website
- Projects and resources shared on their website