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Membership Application 

Networking for Success, Educating for Excellence

AIA Membership Requirements

As a member of the AIA, you will be part of an influential network of individuals and organizations with a shared passion for learning, innovation, and advancing the alternative investment industry. We are committed to providing opportunities for education, networking, and advocacy to our members, promoting the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. Whether you're an experienced investor, a company operating in the space, or any other alternative investment vehicle in learning, the AIA has resources and opportunities tailored to your needs. Explore the benefits of membership with us, and let's shape the future of alternative investments together.

Membership Eligibility

Membership of AIA is open to a wide array of business entities engaged in the alternative investment industry:

Alternative Fund Managers and Firms

  • Alternative Investment Funds
  • Hedge Funds
  • Private Equity Funds
  • Venture Capital Funds
  • Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
  • Commercial Real Estate Investment Companies
  • Residential Real Estate Investment Funds, Firms, and Companies
  • Industrial Real Estate Investment Funds, Firms, and Companies

Diverse Investment Categories

  • Land-Based Investment Funds Firms, or Companies
  • Distressed Securities Funds
  • Commodity Funds
  • Managed Futures Funds
  • Fund of Funds
  • Private Debt Funds, Firms, and Companies
  • Alternative Investment Firms
  • Companies Using Reg. A/A+
  • Companies Using Reg. Crowdfunding (CF)
  • Companies Using Regulation D

Regulatory Entities and Financial Institutions

  • Financial Institutions
  • Investors operating as a business entity
  • Investment Consultants
  • Investment focused Legal Firms
  • Regulators
  • Rating Agencies

Associations, Advisors, and Technology Providers

  • Other Industry Associations
  • Financial Journalists
  • Financial Research Firms and Analysts
  • Auditing Firms
  • FinTech Providers
  • Financial Advisors
  • Data Providers
  • Business Owners
  • Family Offices

Current Restricted Business Entities:

  • Cryptocurrencies 
  • NFTs 

Ethical Conduct

Members must demonstrate ethical conduct, which includes avoiding conflicts of interest and refraining from any behavior that could harm the reputation or goals of the AIA. As a member, you agree to act ethically and in the organization's best interest. You represent and warrant that you have not committed fraud or engaged in any unethical practices related to your involvement in the alternative investment industry. Furthermore, you acknowledge that you do not have the authority to represent the AIA as a member unless specifically authorized by the organization's leadership.

Professional Reputation

To uphold their commitment to ethical conduct and positive contributions to the alternative investment sector, all members are required to submit a letter of recommendation from either an association member or an industry professional with over $100M in AUM. This letter will affirm their ethical conduct and genuine interest in making a difference in the industry. Additionally, it is essential that members are not currently facing any civil enforcement actions filed in a United States District Court. Moreover, members must not be under any standing court order that prohibits them from engaging in activities related to securities laws or have been required to return any funds obtained through illegal conduct. In certain circumstances, civil penalties may also disqualify individuals from membership.

Educational Opportunities and Continuous Learning

The AIA is committed to the professional growth and development of its members. As part of this commitment, we provide a wide range of educational opportunities and resources to foster continuous learning in the alternative investment industry. These resources are designed to equip our members with the knowledge and skills necessary to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving field.

Members are required to fulfill 40 hours of Continuing Education (CE) requirements as set forth by the AIA's board of directors. These requirements ensure that our members stay up to date with the latest industry trends, best practices, and regulatory changes. By participating in these educational activities, members can enhance their expertise and expand their professional networks.

The AIA offers a variety of educational programs, including webinars, workshops, conferences, and online courses. These programs cover a wide range of topics, such as risk management, portfolio diversification, emerging markets, and sustainable investing. Our members have the opportunity to learn from industry experts, thought leaders, and experienced practitioners who share their insights and practical knowledge.

In addition to formal education programs, the AIA also provides members with access to a wealth of resources, including research papers, industry reports, case studies, and online forums. These resources serve as valuable references and tools for members to deepen their understanding of the alternative investment landscape and stay informed about the latest industry developments.

By participating in these educational opportunities and continuously investing in their professional growth, our members demonstrate their commitment to excellence and their dedication to providing the highest level of service to their clients and stakeholders. They position themselves as leaders in the alternative investment industry, equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the market and drive positive change.

At the AIA, we believe that continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth. By fulfilling the CE requirements, our members not only enhance their own capabilities but also contribute to the overall advancement of the alternative investment sector. Together, we are shaping the future of the industry through knowledge, innovation, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Integrity and Trust

The AIA is firmly dedicated to upholding the utmost standards of integrity in the alternative investment industry. As part of our commitment to maintaining a trustworthy and reputable community, we require all prospective members to willingly undergo a thorough background check. This screening process ensures that individuals seeking membership have a clean record, free from any past criminal history pertaining to fraud or investment-related crimes.

By implementing this comprehensive background check, the AIA can confidently assure its members and the industry at large that we are fostering a community of professionals who are committed to ethical conduct and genuine contributions. This measure not only strengthens the reputation of our organization but also instills a sense of trust and confidence among our members and stakeholders.

We believe that by screening prospective members and ensuring their adherence to our stringent standards, we uphold the integrity and credibility of the alternative investment industry as a whole. This commitment to maintaining high ethical standards sets us apart and positions the AIA as a leading authority in the field.

Rest assured, as a prospective member, your commitment to undergoing a background check demonstrates your dedication to ethical conduct and your sincere interest in making a positive impact in the industry. Together, we will continue to raise the bar and shape the future of alternative investments through integrity, trust, and unwavering commitment to excellence.

Membership Dues and Rights

Membership dues must be paid on or before the 30th of January each year to ensure uninterrupted access to member benefits. By maintaining timely payment of membership dues, members can continue to enjoy the wide range of resources, educational opportunities, and networking events offered by the AIA. These benefits are designed to enhance professional growth and provide valuable insights into the alternative investment industry.

However, it is important to note that the AIA reserves the right to relinquish the membership of any individual at any time and for any reason deemed appropriate by the board of directors. While this measure may seem strict, it ensures that the AIA maintains a community of dedicated professionals who adhere to the highest standards of ethical conduct and contribute positively to the industry.

In exceptional cases where a membership is relinquished, the AIA does not provide a refund of membership fees. This policy is in place to reinforce the commitment to ethical conduct and accountability within the alternative investment industry. Members who understand and respect this policy demonstrate their dedication to upholding the reputation and goals of the AIA.

By upholding their commitment to timely payment of membership dues and embracing the values of the AIA, members can continue to access an array of benefits and contribute to the growth and advancement of the alternative investment sector. Through their active participation and adherence to ethical standards, they contribute to a community that is trusted, respected, and positioned as a leading authority in the industry.

Acknowledgment

By signing this agreement, you confirm that you have read and fully comprehend the abovementioned terms and conditions, thus demonstrating your commitment to the principles outlined. The AIA, as an organization, cannot guarantee specific outcomes or benefits from your membership, as they depend largely on your active engagement and utilization of the resources and networking opportunities we provide. However, we are dedicated to furnishing you with valuable tools and connections that can potentially enhance your professional journey.

Our aim is to empower you with the necessary resources and support, enabling you to shape your own path to success within the association. By actively participating and seizing the opportunities presented, you have the ability to maximize your benefits and achieve the desired results. We firmly believe that your dedication and involvement will be the determining factors in realizing the full potential of your membership.

We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to welcome you into our esteemed association, where you will be surrounded by a community of like-minded individuals who are committed to professional growth and collaboration. Together, we can create a vibrant network that fosters learning, innovation, and lasting connections.