How Strategic Association Management Helped RIA Grow Membership and Non-Dues Revenue

Membership Growth
RIA achieved remarkable membership growth in 2024, driven by innovative programs that lowered barriers to entry, expanded enterprise options, and delivered added value through strategic partnerships.
- 2023: 1,323 members
- 2024: 1,650 members
- Increase: +327 members (~24.7% growth)
Key driver programs included:
- First-Time Member Discount Program, which attracted 293 new contractor members at a special introductory rate. This reduced the barrier to entry for new members to see what the RIA is all about.
- Expansion of RIA Enterprise Memberships, adding eight major organizations for a total of 21 enterprise members (62% increase). Enterprise members receive customizable packages of member benefits including multi-location memberships, convention passes, education and branding opportunities giving them a high ROI for their membership.
- Growth in Affinity Partnerships (now 18 total), offering members exclusive savings on essential products and services, while generating revenue back to the association.
Sponsorship, Exhibitor & Advertising Revenue
RIA saw a nearly 40% increase in sponsorship, exhibitor, and advertising revenue in 2024, fueled by AH’s consultative approach and the development of customizable, year-round partnership opportunities.
- 2023: $521,200
- 2024: $724,470
- Increase: +$203,270 (~39% growth)
The AH Industry Relations (IR) team played a pivotal role by:
- Building stronger relationships with industry partners to understand their goals and providing a consultative approach to providing sponsorship solutions.
- Providing enhanced, customizable year-round sponsorship packages that increased ROI for industry partners. Packages maximized event sponsorship, branding, vendor awards, retargeting ads and more.
Convention Attendance
RIA’s annual meeting set new records, drawing 1,240 attendees, a 23% increase over the previous year, thanks to targeted promotion, enriched content, and a surge of first-time participants.
- 2023: 1,009 attendees
- 2024: 1,240 attendees
- Increase: +231 attendees (~22.9% growth)
The 2024 RIA International Convention & Industry Expo, held in Dallas, was a sold-out event. Growth was driven by:
- Targeted event promotion via new media partnerships with industry podcasts and social media ambassadors.
- Enhanced session content around high-profile advocacy work and peer-to-peer learning and interactive discussions
- Attraction of 530 first-time attendees, making up 42% of participants.
Key Takeaways
This case study highlights how expert association management can drive membership recruitment, expand non-dues revenue, and strengthen event performance.
- Membership Surge: RIA added over 300 members in one year, boosted by innovative membership models and strategies.
- Revenue Growth: Sponsorship, exhibitor, and advertising revenue increased nearly 40%, reflecting stronger relationships and ROI for industry partners.
- Event Momentum: The annual convention grew by nearly 23%, reinforcing RIA’s position as the leading networking hub for restoration professionals.
Are you ready for strategic association management?
RIA’s success shows what’s possible when strategic association management meets clear goals. From boosting membership to building sustainable non-dues revenue, AH helps organizations achieve measurable results that advance their mission. Contact us today at inquire@ahint.com to explore how AH can help your association thrive.