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About the AIA

Networking for Success, Educating for Excellence.

  • Promote Best Practices, Standards, and Excellence: The AIA aims to epitomize and elevate the standard of excellence in the field of alternative investments by fostering a robust membership base, upholding the highest standards of ethics and integrity, and championing the implementation of distinguished certifications for both businesses and individuals, thereby serving as a beacon of expertise, credibility, and professionalism in the industry.
  • Networking and Resourcing: Leveraging a dynamic ecosystem of valuable resources, networking opportunities, and strategic partnerships with industry leaders, the AIA is committed to bridging gaps, fostering collaboration, and empowering its members with the tools, insights, and connections needed to succeed in the alternative investments landscape.
  • Provide Leadership for Legislative Issues: As a steadfast advocate for the interests of the alternative investment community, the AIA is dedicated to providing informed, proactive leadership on legislative issues, leveraging its policy expertise to influence favorable outcomes and ensure the interests of our members and the broader industry are well represented and protected.
  • Educating: Education is at the heart of the AIA's mission, dedicated to dispelling misconceptions, raising awareness, and promoting a more comprehensive understanding of alternative investments through the creation and dissemination of accessible educational resources, public outreach initiatives, and strategic collaborations.
  • Improve and Evolve the Association: Committed to its continued growth and evolution, the AIA strives to ensure its organizational sustainability, diversify income streams, and regularly evaluate its impact and success. It actively seeks feedback from its members and stakeholders to remain responsive, dynamic, and relevant, thereby setting a benchmark for excellence and resilience in the face of the ever-changing landscape of alternative investments.

Our Values

The AIA was founded with a resounding emphasis on the word Alternative, symbolizing its unwavering commitment to embracing innovation, exploring uncharted territories, and challenging conventional norms within the alternative investment space.

Authenticity
Leadership
Transparency
Ethics
Responsiblity
Networking
Advocacy
Trust
Innovation
Visionary
Education

Meet Our Founding Board of Directors

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Dutch Mendenhall

Founder & Board President 

Learn More

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Vanessa Mendenhall

Board Vice President 

 

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Taylor Green

Board Secretary  

 

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Amy Vaughn-Witt

Board Treasure  

 

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Accepting Applications

Board Member 

 

Frequently asked questions

Get the answers to most asked questions about the Alternative Investment Association 

What is the AIA?

The AIA (Alternative Investment Association) is an organization committed to fostering a rich, diverse, and inclusive alternative investment landscape. We work towards creating a unified voice in the alternative investments sector, advocating for industry growth, and ensuring accessibility of alternative investments to all.

What is the mission of the AIA?

AIA’s mission is to advance the professionalism, growth, and understanding of the alternative investment industry. AIA provides a robust platform for networking, resource-sharing, leadership in legislative issues, and a strong focus on education. We strive to protect the interests of the alternative investment industry and the investing public it serves, creating generational wealth opportunities for current and future investors.

How can AIA benefit individual investors?

 AIA offers numerous benefits to individual investors, including opportunities for wealth creation, networking with industry experts, and personal development through educational programs and resources. Our goal is to empower individuals to navigate the alternative investment landscape confidently and successfully.

What services does AIA offer to investment firms and businesses?

AIA provides a range of services to investment firms and businesses, including fostering best practices, offering industry insights, and advocating for favorable legislative environments. We work tirelessly to promote excellence and adherence to high operational standards, helping firms enhance their credibility and reputation in the industry.

How do I become a member of the AIA?

 You can become a member of AIA by visiting our website and filling out the membership application form. Follow the prompts to choose the membership plan that best suits your needs and complete the application process.

What are the benefits of AIA membership?

 As an AIA member, you gain access to a plethora of resources, including education, industry insights, and networking opportunities. Members also benefit from being part of a movement that seeks to shape policies favorable to the industry's growth and sustainability.

Are there different types of membership?

Yes, we offer different types of membership to cater to the diverse needs of our community. Detailed information on the various types and their purposes can be found on our website's member pricing page.

Can I upgrade my membership at a later date?

No, your membership price is set by the type of membership. 

What is the purpose of AIA's business certification?

AIA's business certification serves as a seal of quality and trustworthiness, assuring investors that the certified business operates ethically, maintains a robust investor relations program, and is geared to last in the alternative investment space.

How does the AIA business certification ensure safety for investors?

Our business certification is a testament to a firm's adherence to high standards of ethics and operational excellence. It indicates that the business has structures in place to secure investor safety and promote transparent communications, thereby fostering trust and reliability in the market.

What are the criteria for earning a professional certification from AIA? 

The criteria for earning a professional certification from AIA are developed with feedback from our members, ensuring relevance and value. Detailed criteria can be found on our website.

How can I apply for a certification?

To apply for a certification, visit our website and navigate to the certification section. Follow the outlined process to submit your application.

What kind of educational resources does AIA offer?

AIA offers a range of educational resources, including workshops, seminars, and online platforms like the Alternative Wealth Institute. These platforms facilitate the exchange of ideas and insights, fostering continuous learning and innovation in the industry.

Can you tell me more about the AIA Academy?

The AIA Academy, directed by AIA membership, is a hub for learning and development in the alternative investment sector. Here, industry professionals share their expertise, helping members hone their skills and knowledge, thereby fostering a well-informed and competent community.

How does AIA help companies understand and utilize REG A and REG CF?

AIA plays a pivotal role in educating companies about the nuances of REG A and REG CF. We offer educational platforms and resources that provide guidance on filing, marketing, legal compliance, and more, helping companies leverage these regulations effectively to achieve their growth objectives.

Are there networking opportunities available through AIA?

AIA hosts various events and forums where members can network with industry experts and like-minded individuals. These platforms offer opportunities to forge meaningful connections, gain insights, and explore collaborative opportunities.

How can I stay updated with AIA events and news?

To stay updated on AIA events and news, subscribe to our newsletter, 'The Monthly Alternative.' You can also follow us on our social media channels for the latest updates.

What are the sponsorship opportunities available with AIA?

AIA offers various sponsorship opportunities that provide visibility and engagement with a targeted audience in the alternative investment sector. Detailed information on sponsorship opportunities can be found on our website.

How can my company partner with AIA?

Companies looking to partner with AIA can reach out to us through the Sponsorship Opportunities page on our website. We are open to exploring partnerships that align with our mission and offer value to our members.

How can I get in touch with AIA for more information or support?

For more information or support, please visit the 'Contact Us' section on our website. Our team is here to assist you with any queries or information you may need.

What are the benefits of a corporate membership?

1. Exclusive Networking:
Engage with industry leaders, forge strategic partnerships, initiate collaborations, and access decision-makers exclusively at AIA events.

2. Education and Training:
Access premier training programs, webinars, and workshops, ensuring your team not only keeps pace but sets industry standards.

3. Branding & Recognition:
Enhance your reputation with our Founding Member badge, positioning your firm as a trailblazer in alternative investments.

4. Resources & Research:
Unlock exclusive research papers, market insights, and trend analyses, empowering you with tools to sharpen your strategies.

5. Special Discounts:
Experience premium AIA offerings while enjoying exclusive member discounts on events, publications, and more.

6. Influence & Advocacy:
Play a pivotal role in policy-making, advocate for industry evolution, and be part of vital discussions steering the future of alternative investments.

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