As a technology executive, you need to excel both at leading teams, and the litany of technical disciplines leveraged by your company.
In the early days, a technology executive’s job is never done—whether you’re a founder or a CTO who joined later on. From skills to learn, problems to solve, teams to build, and professionals to meet—your plate is often too full for anything else.
The best professional associations for CTOs and founders are those that offer members valuable insight and resources, a strong community of peers, and the opportunity to make direct connections that can lead to new business. These are only a handful of the benefits of joining a professional tech organization. Below you’ll find a list of some of the best professional organizations for Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) and Tech Founders.
Forbes Technology Council
Annual Fees: $2,500 – $5,000
This is an invitation-only membership community for C-suite executives, founders, and owners in the technology industry. A global organization with members from various successful companies, one of the most valuable benefits of joining Forbes Technology Council is visibility.
Of the long list of benefits is the opportunity to publish your expert insights via bylined articles or quotes in Expert Panels on Forbes.com. These pieces convey authority and expertise to your network and business prospects.
Candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements and apply to be considered for an invitation. Members of Forbes Technology Council belong to some of these notable companies: Microsoft, Amazon, Google, and Sony.
Global CTO Forum
Annual Fees: $180
Headquartered in Switzerland, this organization is a global community for technology executives and leaders. The GCF platform offers members access to a massive network of other like-minded individuals, an opportunity to join their mentorship program, and exclusive job offers.
As a member, you’ll also be able to strengthen your personal brand, as GCF utilizes the most advanced SEO techniques to prop your profile in worldwide Google searches. You can also attend exclusive industry events, training, and workshops, ensuring your skills are always current.
Members of the Global CTO Forum belong to the following notable companies: IBM, UNISYS, MetTel, and Huawei.
CompTIA
Annual Fees: $400 – $1,500
CompTIA is the technology industry’s leader in IT certifications, allowing members access to further their education and keep their skills current. Investing in career development through self-study courses and labs is an excellent way to demonstrate potential for your business and future employers.
The membership community offers the opportunity to expand your network, collaborate on business-binding enterprises, and stay ahead of the curve with the latest developments.
Members of CompTIA belong to the following reputable companies: Intel, Lenovo, Canon, and AT&T.
Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society
Annual Fees: $39 – $199
HIMSS is a global thought leader and member-based society that aims to reform the world’s health ecosystem through the power of IT. Joining this organization, members have access to a vast network of health information and technology professionals with whom they’ll collaborate on accelerating healthcare initiatives.
Several membership tiers exist for individuals, corporations, organizational affiliates, and even students. Each type offers members exclusive benefits, but in particular, access to the HIMSS Global & Regional Health Conference is an organization favorite.
Founders Network
Annual Fees: $699 – $2,505
Founders Network is an invitation-only organization providing mentorship programs that are equity free and personalized for technology start-ups. Based on experience levels, Founders Network integrates into your company’s daily routine.
In addition to helping entrepreneurs with their tech initiatives, the organization also offers over 100 events a year, including local training and global summits. These are hosted for members to gain valuable insight from investors, experts, and technology entrepreneurs. They cover everything you need to know, from legal advice to raising capital.
EDUCAUSE
Annual Fees: $815 – $3,275
EDUCAUSE is the largest community of technology, academic, industry, and campus leaders committed to advancing higher education through information technology. The association aims to keep individuals up-to-date on trending issues, connect with like-minded individuals, and further their careers.
Membership is at an organizational level, benefiting everyone from library staff and institutional provosts to Chief Academic Officers and CFOs. Additionally, joining EDUCAUSE offers discounted pricing on all events, exhibits, and advertising.
CNBC Technology Executive Council
Annual Fees: $5,000 to $10,000
The CNBC Technology Executive Council is one of several CNBC Councils. It is invitation-only and comprises leading firms’ CIOs, CTOs, CDOs, and CISOs. They aim to collaborate and network with peers to discuss pressing news and breakthrough trends in the industry.
In addition, members have access to weekly editorial content, idea sharing with CNBC journalists, and access to the annual summit with other global thought leaders. The CNBC Technology Executive Council members belong to the following reputable companies: Adobe, Fannie Mae, Equifax, and the NBA.
Wrapping Up
Carefully consider the pros and cons of each organization, and determine whether they or another association is suitable for your venture.
Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned technology executive, being part of a professional organization is an enriching experience. These organizations offer a chance to interact with other CTOs and tech founders worldwide and collaborate to achieve shared goals and address common challenges.
