Trade Associations

Adapted from content excerpted from the American Express® OPEN Small Business Network

Trade associations often conduct industry research. This data is usually distributed only to members, although sometimes they will make parts of their reports available to non-members and the press as well.

Trade groups also publish member directories that can be useful in tracking down competition. Again, these directories are usually for members only, but it can be worth the price of joining to gain access to these lists. Consult the following sources to find out what trade associations exist in your industry:

Encyclopedia of Business and Professional Associations (Gale Research) - lists trade associations by industry, and provides contacts for local chapters.
The Small Business Sourcebook (Gale Research) - contains lists of professional trade associations, suppliers, trade shows, along with references and statistics for small businesses.
Business Information Sources (University of California Press) - includes publications, newsletters, directories, and other resources.
Business Information Sources (University of California Press) - includes publications, newsletters, directories, and other resources.

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