According to the AMC Institute, association management companies, or AMCs, are for-profit businesses that manage associations to help them grow and prosper. They offer the expertise, staffing and resources that allow professional societies, trade groups, not-for-profits and philanthropic organizations to effectively manage day-to-day operations and advance their long-term goals. AMCs deliver high levels of expertise and accountability so that associations can continue to increase their value and relevance to members.

AMCs provide their clients with unparalleled flexibility, agility and financial advantages, which makes the AMC model a good alternative for managing many nonprofit organizations.

There are two primary models for working with AMCs:

Full Service (Essentient Association Management is a full service AMC): Delivery of turnkey management for all operating disciplines (ranging from membership, marketing and policy development to legal and risk management) and daily operations (including staffing, office space, equipment, contracts, technologies and member services).

Outsourced Services: Delivery of extra support in one or more areas of operations, including: membership services; strategic planning; meetings, conventions, expositions and trade shows; financial management and administration; legal counsel; education and certification; public relations and marketing; web communications and social media; public policy and lobbying; publications; research; and international services.