The Asia Pacific Society of Association Executives (APSAE) hosted its Founding Summit on 24–25 July 2026 at Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre, Singapore, bringing together over 100 senior association leaders from 64 organisations across 16 countries. The inaugural gathering marked the launch of the region’s first dedicated professional community for association executives.
Representing sectors including banking, healthcare, technology, education, sustainability, aviation, retail, law, and finance, delegates from across Asia Pacific came together to exchange insights, address common challenges, and strengthen regional collaboration. More than 83% of attendees held C-suite, President, Secretary General, Founder, or Director-level positions, making it one of the region’s most senior gatherings of association leaders.
Prasant Saha, President, APSAE said, “Asia Pacific has never had a dedicated home for association executives — until now. The energy, the conversations, and the connections made across these two days confirmed what we always believed: the region’s association leaders are ready to learn from each other, support each other, and collectively elevate the impact of associations across Asia Pacific. This is just the beginning.”
The 1.5-day programme featured 30 speakers delivering keynote sessions, expert panels, a masterclass, and discussions focused on issues such as cross-border member engagement, non-dues revenue, volunteer leadership, AI adoption, and policy advocacy. Keynote speaker Kevin Cottam explored leadership in a rapidly changing world, while Jenniefer Setiawan of the EU-ASEAN Business Council discussed strengthening associations’ policy influence across the region.
A membership growth masterclass led by Olena Lima, Founder of Member Boat and Certified Association Executive, received strong appreciation from delegates for its practical approach to member acquisition and retention.
Reena Marwah, Secretary General of the Association of Asia Scholars said, “APSAE is a laudable initiative that provided a forum for association leaders from 16 countries to share ideas and experiences. It was a very rewarding experience, enabling participants to learn the pathways for engaging members, expanding membership, and leveraging AI and new technologies to create value.”
During the Summit, APSAE also unveiled the inaugural State of Associations in Asia Pacific 2026, the first research report dedicated to the region’s association sector. The report highlights challenges including talent shortages, governance, AI adoption, non-dues revenue, volunteer development, and opportunities for greater cross-border collaboration. The full report will be released publicly in the coming weeks.
The Summit also marked the beginning of APSAE’s year-round professional community. Formal membership opens on 15 August 2026, offering access to webinars, peer learning sessions, research resources, CEO Circle discussions, and regional symposia across Asia Pacific.
“You missed a great opportunity to connect with peers in the region,” said Amador Honrado Jr, Deputy Secretary of the Asian Bankers Association — a message directed squarely at the association leaders who were not able to participate this year.
Looking ahead, APSAE has confirmed plans for a larger APSAE Summit 2027, building on the momentum created by its founding edition in Singapore.
Shaun Tan, Head of the Asia Pacific Division, UITP said, “It is timely for Asia Pacific to have this summit as associations continue to grow and make impact for their members. The learning experience across industry is relevant and we hope it continues to grow.”
