Updating you on “Focus on Finance: Optimizing the Financial Leadership Team”

I am very pleased to report that the attendance for this two-day symposium, which is intended to improve the financial knowledge of association treasurers or other financial leaders and enhance their working relationship with their CFOs and/or CEOs, is increasing by the week.

In addition to the material I will present, which includes essential financial concepts, understanding and analyzing association financial statements, building teamwork, and financial roles and responsibilities, I have gathered a superb team of individuals who will present on such topics as managing risks, the importance of nonprofit tax filings, and investment management. Each of the speakers selected is exceedingly knowledgeable and very entertaining.

This symposium will take place at ASAE headquarters in Washington, DC, on June 27 and 29, 2013. In order for the opportunity to be as valuable as possible, each association must have at least one leader and one staff person in attendance. Reservations may be made by e-mailing Caitlin Felker at cfelker@asaecenter.org. For more information paste this link in your browser >>> www.asaecenter.org/FocusOnFinance, or call me personally at 301-983-3206. I will be very happy to hear from you.

How a for-profit partner can spark innovation

I usually look for additional revenue opportunities that will be of potential use to as many associations as possible. However, on occasion, I find one that is simply so innovative that I cannot resist sharing it. The February “Associations Now” column about the Association of Corporate Travel Executives was one of these.

The ACTE’s mission is to develop programming, products, and services that benefit its 30,000 members, who are involved in the global travel industry. It is a new methodology for identifying and developing new products that I found so noteworthy.

In order to bring truly valuable new products to members as quickly as possible without gambling significant association funds, ACTE has partnered with a for-profit company to form what it calls the “Angel Investors Lounge.” This joint venture seeks out innovators that have well-developed ideas to help travel executives do their jobs more effectively.

The process is highly selective; so far only three out of 30 applicants have been accepted. Under the program, the selected entrepreneur gives up a percentage of its capital to the joint venture. In exchange, the innovators receive support from the for-profit to become investor-ready, and receive ACTE’s marketing, promotion, and advisory support, as well.

The benefit to the association is not only aiding their members with breakthrough products, but also owning a piece of equity that they hope will pay off handsomely down the road. And then of course, it never hurts to increase your perceived value to your members.

For more information paste this link in your browser >>> http://associationsnow.com/2013/02/new-money-taking-flight/

“Seeking Revenue? Show Me the Money“

For those of you in the Washington Metropolitan Area I am pleased to report the availability of a cost-free lunch and panel presentation entitled “Seeking Revenue? Show Me the Money.“ The presentation and discussion will begin at 12:30 PM at the W Hotel, 515 15th St., N.W. Registration begins at noon. The meeting will end at 2 PM.

Presenters include Mike Sorrells of BDO USA, Chris Busky, CAE of the Heart Rhythm Society, Alan Weiner or Kelley Drye & Warren, and myself. CPE credits will be provided.

Reserve your space today by e-mailing dcevents@kelleydrye.com or contacting Alexandra Meaza at 202.945.6674.

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