CSAE Association Agenda
CSAE News

Advocacy Hour: A Session with MP Garnett Genuis

May 21, 12.00 - 1.00 PM ET
Virtual

Following the incredible energy of our first Advocacy Hour, we’re thrilled to announce our guest for May: Garnett Genuis, Member of Parliament and the Conservative Shadow Minister for Jobs. Engage with a speaker known for deep intellectual rigor (and the host of the Resuming Debate podcast) on the domestic issues that matter most to your members.


Level Up: Critical Thinking & Career Navigation

May 19, 1-2pm ET

Join CSAE’s Young Professionals Network for an insightful virtual discussion on Critical Thinking, Career Navigation & Opportunity Building.

In an AI-driven world, real growth often comes from human conversation and resilience. Our panel of experts will share personal stories and strategies for navigating change, embracing discomfort, and leveraging mentorship to build a lasting career.


CSAE2026: ANCHORED - Early Bird Pricing Ends May 29

October 27-30, St. John’s NL.

In-person

There’s still time to secure your spot at CSAE 2026 in St. John's at the best possible rate—but not for long. Early Bird pricing for the CSAE Annual Conference ends May 29. Don’t miss your chance to join association leaders and partners from across Canada for three days of learning, connection, and inspiration at CSAE 2026: ANCHORED. Register now to lock in your savings and be part of the conversation shaping the future of our sector.



Elevate Your Board’s Strategic Impact

Governance Forum

September 17, 1.00 - 4.00 PM ET
Virtual

Join Dr. David Weiss on Sept. 17 for a refreshed Governance Forum. This session is all about empowering your leadership team with the tools to de-risk big ideas and move strategy forward with confidence. Bring your entire Board (up to 10 people) for one flat group rate to ensure everyone starts the fall season on the same page.



Summer Summit Program Launching

July 8-10, London, ON

In-person

Coming off the success of the Western Summit, we’re carrying that momentum into Summer Summit, with the same more relaxed pace, but with a real summer vibe, and time built in for the conversations that matter. It’s where ideas land more naturally, and connections have space to grow.

The program is launching later this May, and it’s shaping up to deliver practical, relevant content in a setting designed for learning, networking, and connection.


AI Learning Specifically for Associations

You told us you want practical ways to use AI in your day-to-day work—and we listened. CSAE has partnered with Sidecar to bring you on-demand AI learning built specifically for association professionals. Explore courses that help you save time, improve communications, and streamline your work, plus the option to earn an AI certification. As a CSAE member, you’ll also receive an exclusive 10% discount.

ReImagine Meetings at Fantasyland Hotel
Fantasyland Hotel®
Located in West Edmonton Mall, Fantasyland Hotel reimagines the meeting experience with 25,000 sq ft of thoughtful event space tailored to support your meeting goals. Beyond the boardroom, guests can explore the mall’s endless shopping, dining, and entertainment, striking the ideal balance between focus and relaxation. Reimagine your meetings by blending connection with exceptional experiences—all under one roof.
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CSAE Events
19
May 2026
 
May 19, 1-2 PM
Virtual
21
May 2026
 
May 21, 12-1.00 PM
Virtual
3
Jun 2026
 
June 3, 1-2 PM
Virtual
8
Jul 2026
 
July 8-10, 2026
In-person, London, ON
17
Sep 2026
 
September 17, 1 – 4 PM
Virtual
24
Sep 2026
 
September 24, 8.30 AM – 6.00 PM ET
In-person, Mississauga, ON
27
Oct 2026
 
October 27-30
In-person, St John’s, NL
Ottawa Conference and Event Centre
CSAE Blog

What keeps members committed to your association? In her latest blog post, The ROI of Belonging: Beyond the Member Portal, CSAE President & CEO Tracy Folkes Hanson explains why the true value of membership isn't found in a resource library, but in human connection.

Discover how shifting from "consumption" to "connection" creates a purpose-driven community that drives long-term advocacy and impact.

Don’t Miss These Curated Perspectives on a Variety of Association-Focused Issues

Explore content on the key competencies of governance, organizational direction, leading people, operations and value to membership:

The partner you need to stand out
Palais des congres de Montreal®
The Palais des congrès de Montréal is a world-class venue combining versatile spaces and recognized expertise. Partner with our team, and unlock exclusive access to top universities, research centres, and cutting-edge industries—an entire ecosystem dedicated to fueling your success. In the heart of Montréal, let's create events that bring people together, inspire and transform.
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Association Jobs

Employers...
Leverage CSAE’s relationship with over 15,000 association executives to fill your next position. Post your job to AssociationJobs.ca now! CSAE members save 40%.

Job Seekers...
Interested in finding the latest career opportunities in the association sector? Click here to find the most recent postings, such as:

Title: Communications Specialist
Organization: Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police - 223262
Location: Kanata, Ontario
Get more details

Title: Membership Services Manager
Organization: Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute of Canada (HRAI)
Location: Mississauga, Ontario
Get more details

Title: Director of Finance & Administration
Organization: Canadian Actors' Equity Association
Location: Toronto (City), Ontario
Get more details

Meet PEI
Sector News

When a Fad Becomes the Future: How Association Leaders Can Tell the Difference
Association leaders face a constant stream of new technologies and revenue models, but the challenge lies in distinguishing fleeting fads from lasting shifts. While innovations like virtual-only 3D lobbies often lose their novelty, trends such as hybrid work and data-driven personalization endure because they solve real problems and change member expectations. Leaders are encouraged to practice disciplined experimentation by piloting initiatives with clear metrics and the capacity to "fail fast" without compromising mission stability or member trust. 
ASAE

A Path for CEOs on AI
While many executives are embracing artificial intelligence for strategic decisions, new data suggests much of this activity is driven by board pressure rather than clear returns. According to recent surveys, 61 percent of CEOs say their boards are rushing into AI transformation, and 80 percent feel their jobs depend on delivering AI wins this year. To navigate this, leaders must prioritize data governance and be honest with stakeholders about risk tolerance, as moving slower and more deliberately may be more effective than chasing hype that lacks a clear payoff. 
Associations Now

Why Revenue Isn’t Separate from Your Mission
Treating revenue as a separate entity from an association's mission can hinder growth and member value. John Bacon, vice president of sales and partner experiences at ASAE, advocates for a shift from transactional revenue models to intentional, value-driven strategies. By moving beyond simple sponsorships toward strategic partnerships, associations can build deeper trust and deliver better outcomes for both members and partners. This integrated approach ensures that revenue-generating activities directly support and strengthen the organization’s core purpose. 
Association Adviser

Fairmont Banff Springs
Tourism Vaughan
Featured Publications
    
   

The 2026 CSAE Benefits & Compensation Report, developed in partnership with The Portage Group, is now available. This trusted resource offers Canadian association leaders high-level insights into compensation, benefits, and total rewards trends—designed to support informed planning and governance discussions. Explore the full report to see how your organization compares.

 

 
   

Even if you’re not using AI – or aren’t sure it’s right for your organization – your peers likely are. The CSAE–Bramm Research Generative AI Survey Report reveals how Canadian associations are experimenting with AI, the benefits they’re seeing, and the risks they’re managing. See real adoption rates, common use cases, and policy approaches so you can make informed decisions about your next steps.

 

 

River  
   

This interactive guide introduces associations, their role in society, and common types. It also covers the structure of Canadian associations, detailing the roles and duties of the Board of Directors, staff, and volunteers. With detailed explanations, case studies, and examples, “Intro to Associations” is an essential resource for professionals and volunteers new to the association world.

Thank You to Our Corporate Partners

CSAE's partners are best-in-class companies that deliver quality products and/or services to the association sector.