Clarity and Confidence: Top Gains from IA Membership

For over 25 years, Innovators Alliance (IA) has been a trusted community for entrepreneurs, bringing together Founders, CEOs, Presidents, and senior leaders from Ontario’s fastest-growing small and medium-sized businesses. Our network enables them to refine business practices, gain new perspectives, and seek guidance through meaningful peer connections.

Each year, IA’s member survey offers us valuable insights into members’ experiences and priorities, helping us refine our services to best meet their needs. This year’s survey highlighted key trends and goals for the year ahead, providing a deeper look at the priorities driving IA members in 2024 and beyond.

A Snapshot of IA Membership

IA’s diverse membership spans manufacturing, technology, and service sectors, with members generating average annual revenues of $30 million. Here’s a snapshot:

• Industry Representation: 49% of members work in manufacturing, while the rest are in technology, services, and other sectors.
• Global Reach: 45% of members operate businesses internationally.
• Generational Demographics: 50% are Gen X, 34% are Baby Boomers, and 16% are Millennials.

Key Benefits and Priorities for Members

When asked what they value most about IA, members identified the following top benefits:

1. Structured, Monthly Chapter Meetings
   These professionally facilitated, 3-hour meetings include member check-ins, roundtable discussions, and a deep dive into business plans (known as the Innovation Journey). This consistent format allows for rich, constructive feedback and input from peers.
2. Supportive Chapter Community
   Members value the deep relationships built within each chapter, where feedback is constructive, honest, and supportive. The confidential setting allows for candid discussions and accountability among peers.
3. Access to Subject Matter Experts
   Through webinars, workshops, and conferences, members access expert insights. Highlights include two “power meetings” each year, offering additional learning opportunities and opportunities for engagement across the membership.

Goals for the Year Ahead

When asked about their focus areas for the next 12 months, members identified the following priorities:

• Confidential Learning and Improvement
  Leveraging the IA community to gain insights and explore new ideas within a supportive environment.
• Time to Work ‘On’ the Business vs. ‘In’ the Business
  Creating an ongoing opportunity to step back, strategize, and view business challenges from a higher perspective.
• Exposure to New Innovations
  Discovering fresh approaches and embracing new methods to improve business, through member input, and new ideas generated from within the membership.
• Accountability and Action
  Harnessing peer support and accountability to turn ideas into actionable steps.

Top Business Challenges

In discussing their current challenges, members highlighted these areas of priority:

• Growth and Sales
• People and HR
• Process Improvements
• Leveraging Technology

New Resources and Opportunities

Members also provided feedback on additional resources through the Alliance, including these top requests:

1. Sector-Specific and Topic-Focused Meetings
   Additional industry-focused groups (like Manufacturing Sector meetings) or topic-specific sessions (e.g., sales, social media).
2. Expanded Networking Opportunities
   Greater formal and informal networking options, such as a new IA Member Directory and more social events.
3. Partnerships with Expert Sponsors
   Connections to new partners offering guidance in key interest areas.
4. Regional Meetings
   Events that enable members from different areas to meet and learn from each other throughout the membership.

Key Gains from IA Membership

When asked about the greatest benefits they’ve experienced through the network, members identified these top outcomes:

• Increased Clarity and Confidence
  Members reported greater clarity in their roles and an increased ability to impact their businesses meaningfully.
• Enhanced Leadership Confidence
  Many reported feeling more empowered and assured in their leadership abilities.
• Expanded Network and Resources
  Access to a broader network and valuable resources has proven invaluable for many members.

Looking Ahead

We thank all members who contributed to this year’s survey; your input is invaluable to our strategic planning. In 2025, Innovators Alliance is dedicated to expanding programming to meet member needs. This includes the rollout of the new interactive IA Member Directory and the highly anticipated Innovation Exchange Retreat. We’re also excited to offer more regional meetings, business-focused gatherings, and partnerships in areas that matter most to you.

Stay tuned for updates on these new offerings as we continue to support and empower Innovators alliance members in their ongoing professional development and advancement.