We are excited to today release our Smart Associations: AI Benchmarking Report 2026.
This report, developed in partnership with The Research Concierge, utilises responses from 126 trade associations, providing evidence-based insight into trade associations' use of AI, the challenges they face, and opportunities they foresee.
The findings are both encouraging and instructive:
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91% of trade associations are now using AI in some form, placing our sector significantly ahead of the wider UK business community.
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AI is delivering the greatest immediate impact in writing, summarising and research support, reflecting the knowledge intensive nature of association work.
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Adoption is broad, but depth of integration varies, with governance, skills and clear use cases still developing across many organisations.
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Resistance to change is low. The sector is willing and engaged. What is needed now is structured support, shared learning and practical capability building.
This report forms part of TAF’s ongoing effort to provide benchmarking, insight and strategic guidance to help associations strengthen their operational effectiveness and member value.
Connected to this commitment, we are delighted to launch TAF’s partnership with the British Chambers for Commerce (BCC), which offers TAF members and their members discounted access to the BCC AI Academy.
The BCC AI Academy was established to help businesses unlock the full potential of AI. The Academy provides structured, practical training to help associations to build the skills and understanding of how best to utilise AI in a way that delivers value for their members.
Through TAF’s partnership with the BCC, TAF members, and their members’ member organisations can access the AI Skills Academy at a 20% discount on the market rate. This equates to year round access for £180 per participant.