All the Marketing, Advertising, Communication and PR Clubs and Associations in Canada You Need to Know
The marketing industry is characterized by its fast-paced and ever-evolving nature, with trends and technologies constantly shifting. A telling sign of this growth in Canada is the rise of marketing, advertising, communication, and PR clubs and associations. Just four years ago, we highlighted the only 13 organizations in Canada in an article ; today, that number has soared to 32 and continues to grow!
Keep reading to learn more about each organization and what they have to offer…
Anything you want to change about your organization’s profile? Let us know here and we’ll be happy to fix it.
1.iPeople of Colour in Advertising and Marketing (POCAM)
POCAM (People of Colour in Advertising and Marketing) is dedicated to advancing the representation of people of colour within Canada's advertising and marketing industries. Currently, with over 1,770+ members and growing, this not-for-profit was inspired and founded by the 2019 LinkedIn group POCA that was created by Stephanie Small. POCAM’s Call for Equity, launched in June 2020, outlines 15 demands to foster justice, equity, and inclusion for BIPoC professionals. This initiative garnered support from over 630 BIPoC professionals and 141 industry organizations, with more joining daily. POCAM also conducts the Annual Visible & Vocal study, the only industry study focusing on Canadian BIPOC advertising and marketing professionals' profiles, perspectives, and experiences. By fostering dialogue and action, POCAM highlights the contributions of people of colour in the industry and paves the way for future generations of diverse talent.
Founders: Stephanie Small, Alyssa Dominique, Gavin Barrett, Joshua Richards, Julian Franklin, Justin Senior
POCAM Contact: steerco@wearepocam.ca
Membership Costs:
$30/year (complimentary membership bursary available)
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://www.wearepocam.ca/
2. Digital Advertising Alliance of Canada (DAAC)
The Digital Advertising Alliance of Canada (DAAC) is an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to responsible online interest-based advertising (IBA). DAAC aims to enhance consumer transparency and control while establishing responsible privacy practices across the industry. The DAAC's vision is to establish a principles-based system for digital advertising, resulting in the development of the Canadian AdChoices program, which sets consumer-friendly standards for online interest-based advertising in collaboration with global programs. Led by Executive Director Julie Ford, DAAC's supporting associations include the Association of Canadian Advertisers, Association of Creative Communications Agencies, Canadian Marketing Association, Canadian Media Directors' Council, Institute of Canadian Agencies, and the Interactive Advertising Bureau of Canada. DAAC ensures that digital advertising is conducted responsibly, fostering trust among consumers and stakeholders.
Executive Director: Julie Ford
DAAC Contact: Registration Form
Membership Costs: (Annual Fee based on self-attested gross Canadian revenue. Firms not directly engaged with interest-based advertising would be considered "small business")
Licensed Participation:
Large - $9,500
Medium - $4,200
Small - $2,500
Supporting Level:
Large - $5,500
Medium - $2,500
Small $1,500
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://youradchoices.ca/
3. PrideAM
Launched in the UK in 2015, PrideAM is the first 2SLGBTQI+ body dedicated to the marketing and brand communications industries. As a voluntary and not-for-profit organization, PrideAM aims to improve the experience, support, and representation of 2SLGBTQI+ people within the industry and beyond. Following its success in the UK, Scott Knox brought PrideAM to Canada in the fall of 2019, establishing its headquarters in Toronto. PrideAM's mission encompasses promoting fair and accurate representation of 2SLGBTQI+ people in advertising and marketing communications, eliminating prejudice from the workplace, and fostering an inclusive creative environment. Recently, they launched the first-ever PrideAM Awards, a prestigious global event that recognizes creative and innovative campaigns that have made a significant impact within the 2SLGBTQI+ community. PrideAM's commitment to inclusivity and advocacy extends globally, reflecting its ongoing mission to support the 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Chair: Sam Archibald
PrideAM Contact: queers@prideam.com
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://prideam.org/
4. Canadian Media Directors Council (CMDC)
The Canadian Media Directors’ Council (CMDC) is an independent association, founded in the early 1980s, representing media professionals from advertising media agencies across Canada. Its members account for 96% of the total media ad spend in Canada and aim to contribute to a healthy and responsible media environment. The council supports local media through initiatives like The Canadian Media Manifesto, which advocates for increasing the Canadian share of digital media investments to 25%. As well, CMDC’s Youth Ambassadors Next Generation program nurtures the next generation of the media field through opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and industry engagement. The council's members include a board of professionals, youth ambassadors, and partner agencies, all working to create a fair and progressive marketplace. Under the leadership of President Shannon Lewis, CMDC continues to support economic growth, talent development, and innovation, ensuring a vibrant and sustainable media landscape for everyone.
President: Shannon Lewis
CMDC Contact: medialeaders@cmdc.ca
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://www.cmdc.ca
5. The Canadian Agency Network (tCAN)
Founded in 1963, the Canadian Agency Network (tCAN) is a group that brings together Canada’s top independent agencies. tCAN strongly believes in collaboration over competition, fostering a spirit that unites the best strategic and creative minds in the industry. This creates a space where independent agencies are encouraged to leverage each other’s strengths, ensuring that agency owners are not just surviving but thriving together in a network that celebrates mutual success and innovation. Membership benefits include access to a network of thought leaders and independent agency owners, the opportunity to attend the annual tCAN member’s conference featuring dynamic speakers, workshops, and networking events, and a wealth of resources including workshops, seminars, and interactive webinars led by industry experts. These sessions cover a wide range of topics tailored to the specific needs of agency owners, from navigating regulatory changes to adopting the latest technological advancements.
Managing Director: Bill Whitehead
tCAN Contact: Contact Form (At the bottom of the page)
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://tcan.co/
6. Calgary Marketing Association (CMA)
The Calgary Marketing Association (CMA) is dedicated to supporting Calgary’s thriving marketing community. CMA bridges the awareness gap between agencies and large corporations, providing industry professionals with access to exclusive events, mentorship opportunities, shared tools, and networks. Each year, the CMA hosts a variety of networking events like members-only receptions, live mixers, and forums, allowing members to connect with peers and industry leaders. The organization also offers platforms for members to showcase their expertise as speakers, panellists, or guest bloggers as well as providing an extensive job board, helping members find talent or career opportunities. Overall, CMA is committed to showcasing emerging best practices and fostering collaborative knowledge exchange to raise the bar for Calgary’s marketing industry.
President: Mark Binkley
CMA Contact: marc@calgarycma.com
Membership Costs:
Individual - $165/ year
Corporate - $549/ year
Not-for-Profit - $275/ year
Student - $55/ year
National or Regional: Regional
To Learn More, Visit https://calgarycma.com/
7. Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD)
Through the Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD), Canadian designers exchange ideas, educate and inspire, set professional standards and build a strong, supportive community dedicated to advocating for the value of design. RDG is Canada’s largest professional association for graphic designers, with over 4,000 members, including firm owners, freelancers, managers, in-house designers, educators and students. The list is endless when it comes to membership perks and opportunities. The RGD runs numerous industry events and initiatives, including DesignThinkers, Canada’s largest annual conference for graphic designers; Creative Earners, and awards programs for in-house design, social good design and students, and much more. Members also receive access to webinars, workshops, a specialized job board, discounts on industry products and services and can participate in portfolio review sessions to receive feedback from experienced professionals! Be sure to also check out their blog, newsletter, social media, and podcast, filled with all things graphic design.
“The RGD is a community of designers supporting designers. There’s something for everyone here—whether you’re a student just starting out or a senior professional with years of experience. One of the initiatives that I’m so proud we offer is Creative Earners, Canada’s comprehensive salary survey and report for creatives. It gives a detailed look at what creative communicators across the country are billing and earning, helping us build a more transparent, equitable industry.”
Executive Director: Hilary Ashworth
RDC Contact: info@rgd.ca
Membership Costs: Full Detailed Breakdown
Certified RGD Membership: $375/year
Provisional RGD Membership: $175/year
Affiliate Membership: $300/year
Jr Affiliate Membership: $75/year
Student Membership: $50/year
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://rgd.ca/
8. Account Planning Group of Canada (APG Canada)
The Account Planning Group of Canada (APG Canada) is an organization all about making strategic planning better and more influential across the country. They create a welcoming community for planners from different agencies and sectors to collaborate, share knowledge, and grow professionally. Joining APG Canada comes with some perks, including posting and finding job opportunities on the APG Jobs Board, getting 1:1 mentoring on various skills, and receiving tips to improve resumes, portfolios, and interview techniques. Plus, members enjoy discounts on APG events, Strategy Awards, and training from the IPA and Sweathead. APG Canada also has frequent online events such as their ‘Lunch With’ series, and a podcast.
“The APG is the best place for strategists, both up and coming and senior, to connect with and learn from other strategists. Together as a community we celebrate and support each other.”
Founder: Mark Tomblin
APGC Contact: hello@apgcanada.ca
Membership Costs:
Professional - $75/year
Student - $45/year
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://www.apgcanada.ca/
9. Association Marketing Quebec
Association Marketing Québec (AMQ) aims to inspire marketing professionals, share trends and best practices, and network. It aims to promote marketing excellence by offering tools, development and outreach opportunities, as well as a dynamic community. It organizes online conferences, summits and the Flèches d'Or awards, which recognize the most outstanding marketing campaigns and achievements of the past year.
As a member of AMQ, you’ll benefit from numerous advantages, such as free access to all of their online events, a 25% discount on summits and the Flèches d'Or gala, free participation in corporate networking evenings, and the opportunity to share your job offers on our networks, at no charge.
President: Marlène Hins
AMC Contact: info@amqmarketing.ca
Membership Costs:
Corporate Membership - $300/year
Foundation/OBNL Membership - $75/year
Individual Membership - $250/year
Student Membership - $100/year
National or Regional: Regional
To Learn More, Visit https://associationmarketingquebec.ca/
10. Association of Broadcast Communicators (ABCOM)
If you have heard of the Association of Broadcast Communications (ABCOM) before, it may be due to their well-known, annual Christmas and Golf Tournament Party, but diving deeper into all the organization does will showcase its slogan of being a place where ‘Media Minds Meet’. Based in Vancouver, ABCOM’s main initiative is its awards, including the Audrey and Rising Star Award, and the BCIT bursary, given to a student entering the industry. ABCOM hosts a few educational seminars throughout the year, as well as student outreach efforts that present career opportunities to secondary schools. The Board of Directors is made up of industry influencers, and members must be nominated by peers to join the organization.
President: Anna Widomska
ABCOM Contact: Anna.Widomska@corusent.com
Membership Costs: By nomination only
National or Regional: Regional
To Learn More, Visit https://abcom.bc.ca/
11. National Advertising Benevolent Society (NABS)
If you are a professional in the industry in need of support, the National Advertising Benevolent Society (NABS) is your go-to resource, from financial aid and career support to wellness and workshops. This registered Canadian Charity was started in 1983 to support those working in the media, marketing, advertising, and communications industry and currently has offices in Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal. NABS is supported entirely through community fundraising initiatives, such as their annual media sale, as well as at events like the ABCOM & NABS Golf Tournament. There are virtual events, open to all, with panels and speed mentoring opportunities, designed to support those in the industry. The wellness resources offer videos on topics like financial literacy, personal goal setting, and professional development, while the workshops focus on mental health first aid certifications. Overall, NABS is dedicated to helping industry professionals thrive both personally and professionally, ensuring they have the resources and support they need to succeed.
Managing Director: Rosetta Heckhausen
NABS Contact: support@nabs.org
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://nabs.org/
12. A2C
The Association of Creative Communications Agencies (A2C) is the voice of over 107 agencies in Quebec of different sizes, configurations, and specialties, but all with one thing in common: a commitment to creative communications. Its members generate more than 85% of the industry’s revenues in Quebec and contribute to the success of companies here and abroad. Members gain access to an exclusive portal with reference documents, contract templates, A2C-issued notices, partner discounts, and various surveys and studies. A2C also supports young professionals through initiatives like agency open house days and the Relève Communication and Relève Marketing contests. If your agency is a fit, check out their membership requirements and apply to join a community of the top communications organizations within Quebec.
President: Dominique Villeneuve
A2C Contact: d.villeneuve@a2c.quebec
Membership Cost: Price Breakdown (Including Application Process)
National or Regional: Regional
To Learn More, Visit https://a2c.quebec/
13. The Ad Club of Toronto
The Advertising Club of Toronto (AdClub) is a not-for-profit organization that supports the advertising industry, including media, creative, production, and marketing services. AdClub’s mission is to raise and distribute charitable funds through events that showcase industry innovations while offering networking opportunities. The funds raised are donated to causes like NABS, SickKids Hospital, and scholarships for students entering the industry. Notable events, like the Summer Camp, bring together over 500 industry professionals for a day of networking and fun, with proceeds benefiting charitable causes.
President: Amanda Newell
AdClub Contact: Contact Form
National or Regional: Regional
To Learn More, Visit https://adclub.ca/.
14. Ad Standards
Ad Standards is the trusted self-regulatory body for Canada’s advertising industry, with top Canadian organizations like A&W, RBC, Tim Hortons, and global giants like Coca-Cola, Lego, McDonald’s, and Visa among its members. As Canada’s only national not-for-profit advertising regulator, Ad Standards ensures that advertising is truthful, fair, and accurate. The organization reviews consumer complaints, offers preclearance services for regulated sectors, and provides essential training on advertising compliance. Membership not only demonstrates a commitment to ethical advertising but also helps build public trust in the industry, with members gaining access to industry insights and the right to display the Ad Standards Member logo.
President: Catherine Bate
Ad Standards Contact: info@adstandards.ca
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://adstandards.ca/
15. Toronto Marketing Hub
Toronto Marketing Hub is a vibrant community for marketing professionals, committed to connecting and empowering marketers across the Greater Toronto Area. With over a dozen local agencies as members, offering services ranging from strategic consulting to SEO optimization and research-based campaigns, the hub is a key player in the city’s marketing landscape. They provide a variety of events, workshops, and resources to keep members at the forefront of industry trends.
Toronto Marketing Hub regularly posts news and articles about the latest developments in marketing, highlights Canadian industry leaders through interviews and features, and offers exclusive insights into impactful campaigns and trends. Their free newsletter keeps subscribers informed and inspired, diving into the most recent and influential campaigns. Whether you're looking to expand your network, learn from experts, or stay updated on the latest marketing trends, Toronto Marketing Hub provides the content, tools, and community support you need to succeed.
Co-Founder: Pavlo Klymenko
National or Regional: Regional
To Learn More, Visit https://marhub.ca/
16. Edmonton Advertising Club (ACE)
The Edmonton Advertising Club (ACE) is the driving force behind the advertising industry in Edmonton, dedicated to supporting and uplifting its members and the broader community. Passionate about advertising, ACE believes in the potential for greatness in every company and every member, offering modern tools and professional development opportunities to prepare members for any challenge. The club is inclusive, welcoming voices from all corners of advertising, marketing, and media. Its members range from seasoned professionals to students just starting their careers, with mentorship and networking opportunities available to everyone. The club also gives back to the community such as its support to the National Advertising Benevolent Society (NABS), Canada’s only charity helping advertising, media, and industry professionals facing illness, injury, unemployment, or financial difficulties.
Membership options include Professional Membership, which offers access to career opportunities, networking, and discounted event rates, and Student Membership, which provides students with networking, mentorship, and learning opportunities at a reduced rate.
President: Carla McNeil
Edmonton Advertising Club Contact: Contact Form
Membership Costs:
Professional - $100/year ($80/year for renewals) + GST
Student - $35/year + GST
National or Regional: Regional
To Learn More, Visit https://adclubedm.com/
17. Saskatchewan Marketing Association
The Saskatchewan Professional Marketing Association aims to bring together like-minded marketing and advertising professionals in Saskatchewan. Their goal is to build a strong community that allows for networking and professional development opportunities. They pride themselves on being a casual and creative group dedicated to the field of marketing and growing their skills in the pursuit of ongoing learning and curiousity.
Saskatchewan Marketing Associations marquee event is their annual FUZE Conference. The event unites Saskatchewan marketers for a day filled with insightful talks from renowned speakers and networking opportunities.
President: Brandy Kindred
Saskatchewan Marketing Association Contact: Contact Form
Membership Costs:
Student - $24.99/year
Individual - $59.99/year
Group (3 or more) - $49.99/person
National or Regional: Regional
To Learn More, Visit https://www.saskmarketing.com/
18. Canadian Society for Marketing Professional Services (CSMPS)
The Canadian Society for Marketing Professional Services (CSMPS) is a non-profit society which provides professional services firms with forward-thinking education, professional growth and development and dynamic networking. Their broad membership base is drawn from professional service industries such as architecture, engineering and construction, law, accounting and financial services and management consulting.
Their passion lies with professional services firms as they face a unique challenge - no tangible products to touch and feel, yet the responsibility of selling themselves. At CSMPS, their education and outreach efforts are designed to support the highly specialized function of professional services firms by delivering current, relevant support and education to help generate results in the workplace. Members are invited to events such as breakfast events, workshops and interactive peer group sessions.
President: Alicia Cornford
Canadian Society for Marketing Professional Services Contact: info@csmps.com
Membership Costs:
Individual - $275/year
Corporate Membership - $450/year
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://www.csmps.com/
19. Advertising & Design Club of Canada
The ADCC has been encouraging excellence in Canadian Advertising and Design since 1948. Beginning, the club has put an emphasis in encouraging excellence and championed the power of creativity. The sole purpose of the Advertising & Design Club of Canada is to encourage the highest-quality work, regardless of monetary success or politics. They exist to serve the community through art, design, education, historical preservation and championing the next generation of thinkers.
Now a national club, their awards program celebrates the best in design and advertising each year from across Canada - setting the creative bar high. Their members - creatives of all kinds, working in many media - are located across the country
President: Alexis Bronstorph
Advertising & Design Club of Canada Contact: info@theADCC.ca
Membership Costs:
Student - $35/year
Next Generation - $50/year
Professional - $100/year
Studio - $250/year
Small Agency - $750/year
Agency - $2000/year
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://theadcc.ca/
20. Response Marketing Association
The RMA specializes in direct response marketing. This is a technique that evokes an immediate response that encourages the customer to opt into the advertiser’s offer. This specialized association provides marketing professionals with a forum and active community, as well as free and discounted events, webinars and certifications. Response Marketing often drives short-term results but should always connect to your longer-term branding efforts. RMA is a firm believer that they should work well together, in balance.
“We are excited to announce that we will be adding the ‘1 Degree Marketer’s Hive’ - a place where marketers can connect and interact to solve problems, learn from other marketing experts and create their own ‘circles’. Monthly membership will start at $49. ”
CEO + Founder: Derek Lackey
Response Marketing Association Contact: info@responsema.org
Membership Costs: Free
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://responsema.org/
21. Canadian Women in Public Relations and American Women in Public Relations
Canadian Women in Public Relations and American Women in Public Relations enables groups of public relations leaders across the Americas to come together to share ideas, contacts, experiences, and to advocate for major issues affecting women working in the PR industry today.
They create solutions to propel equality through research and initiatives that help women move into leadership positions. The organization builds the PR industry’s knowledge of diversity and encourages a shift towards a more inclusive management style. The organization is focused on creating solutions to tackle gender inequalities, provide a platform for women in PR to raise their visibility, help corporations close the gender pay gap, and recruit the best PR talent.
The organization has chapters across North America and offers members access to informative events, online courses, professional development and networking opportunities. Members can volunteer their time to launch their career in public relations and access member-only job postings. From mentorship, thought leadership opportunities, to participating in research studies, there are many ways to join the movement to accelerate gender equality in public relations.
CEO + Founder: Talia (Beckett) Davis
Women in Public Relations Contact: Contact Form
Membership Costs:
Individual - $397/year
Corporate - $1297/year
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://womeninpr.com/
22. The Canadian Marketing Association (CMA)
Referring to itself as the “voice of the marketing profession in Canada,” the CMA provides its members a forum to engage in thought-leadership discussions through its seven councils, with varying mandates such as the B2B council, brand council and customer experience council. These councils offer strategic insights, tools and original content to its members on how to grow their respective businesses.
The CMA also has professional development offerings like seminars, virtual events and certification courses. What’s more, the association offers a two-year online Chartered Marketing program whereby those enrolled in the program can achieve the CM designation after completing a series of core applied marketing courses, specialization electives, as well as a summit course and ethics for marketers’ course. The designation program enables marketers to further learn concepts such as opportunity sizing, value proposition development, market planning, financial management, marketing technologies, emerging trends and more. The CMA has more than 400 members from the corporate, not-for-profit, public, post-secondary and health sectors.
President + CEO: Alison Simpson
CMA Contact: info@the-cma.org
Membership Costs - CMA does not extend individual memberships -
Post Secondary Student Membership -
Full-time students, faculty and staff: $1905/year
Individual fee (if your institution is not featured on CMA website): $50/year
Individual -
Marketer in transition from CMA member company - $750
Chartered Marketer in transition - $300
Companies -
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://thecma.ca/
23. The Association of Canadian Advertisers
In contrast to other associations and organizations that include creative and media agency members, the ACA has positioned itself over the years as Canada’s “go-to organization for client marketers,” with a focus on helping its members maximize their marketing communication and brand ROI. This is primarily achieved by the association providing its members with helpful literature and studies, confidential consultations aimed at answering questions or responding to challenges its members are facing, as well as facilitating webinars, events and training sessions.
Some of the literature resources online that ACA members have access to include a weekly roundup of must-read articles for brand marketers, establishing principles for a new approach to cross-media measurement, the marketer’s guide to dashboards and more. Webinars and vents span from discussing creative production and consumer trends, to building brand trust. The ACA also advocates on behalf of its members and appears before government and industry stakeholders to discuss matters such as brand safety, responsible advertising to children and cross media measurement.
President + CEO: Andrea Hunt
Association of Canadian Advertisers Contact: communications@acaweb.ca
Membership Costs -
Annual membership fees are determined by total annual internal and external MacCom expenditures in Canada of the member company including: expenditures for all media; production costs; sponsorships; commissions and/or fees paid to MarCom Agencies.
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://acaweb.ca/en/
24. The Institute of Canadian Agencies (ICA)
The ICA is positively shaping the business environment for agencies to thrive. They work to Amplify, Protect and Transform their members, their people, and the industry.
Founded in 1905, the ICA is the not-for-profit association for Canadian advertising, marketing, media, and public relations agencies. Their membership and board of directors represent some of the most recognized and influential agencies in Canada and around the world.
They believe that Brands need more Canada. Their manifesto identifies four clear pillars to boost the influence of Canada's agencies on the global stage and drive growth in the agency sector through to 2030.
President + CEO: Scott Knox
The Institute of Canadian Agencies Contact: ica@icacanada.ca
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://theica.ca/
25. The Branded Content Marketing Association
A non-profit global organization representing the branded content and influencer marketing sectors of the industry, the BMA establishes industry standards for best practice, promotes success and measures the efficacy of branded content and influencer marketing.
Insights around best practices for those in the branded content and influencer marketing spaces come through via the BCMA’s content, like its two global podcast series, “Influence Global Podcast” and “The Future of Branded Content and PR.” Both series share insights and strategies aimed at helping those in the influencer marketing and branded content spaces thrive.
BCMA Canada President: Haem Roy
The Branded Content Marketing Association Contact: Contact Form
Membership Cost:
Influencer/Content Creator - $249/year
Small Business (2-49 employees) - $1995/year
Large (50+ employees) - $2995/year
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://www.thebcma.info/
26. The American Marketing Association (AMA)
The AMA is a professional association for marketing professionals across the United States. The association’s stated mission is to be “the most relevant force and voice” shaping marketing globally, and to be “an essential community for marketers.” AMA members are professionals who work, teach and study marketing with a desire to further advance the industry.
CEO: Bennie F. Johnson
American Marketing Association Contact: Contact Form
Membership Cost:
Individual Professional and Academic - $199/year
Group Professional and Academic - $169/year
Individual Doctoral Student - $99/year
Individual and Group Collegiate Student - $29/year
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://www.ama.org/
27. The Canadian Public Relations Society
The CPRS is a non-profit professional society dedicated exclusively to the public relations field. With 16 member societies across Canada, the CPRS upholds professional, educational and ethical standards in the PR industry. The organization runs a program of professional development events, seminars and networking opportunities. What’s more, CPRS Toronto has a mentorship program in which a PR professional and mentor takes on five “mentees” for three months, providing them with the skills and connections needed to navigate the industry. The organization also offers volunteering opportunities whereby an individual can write for the CPRS’ blog, help out with events, judge awards or sit on the board of the organization.
President: Claire Ryan
Canadian Public Relations Society Contact: Contact List
Membership Cost:
Senior Practitioner - $329/year + HST
Local society dues - $45 - $130 +Tax
Mid-level Practitioner - $329/year + HST
Local society dues - $45 - $130 +Tax
Emerging Practitioner - $175/year + HST
Local society dues - $45 - $130 +Tax
Student - $89/year + HST
National or Regional: National with societies across Canada
To Learn More, Visit https://www.cprs.ca/
28. International Association of Business Communications (IABC)
IAB Canada was established in 1997 and represents the online advertising industry in Canada. The internationally respected trade association represents over 250 of Canada's most well-known and respected stakeholders in the digital advertising and marketing sector, including advertisers, advertising agencies, media companies, digital media publishers and platforms, social media platforms, ad tech providers and platforms, data companies, mobile and video game marketers and developers, measurement companies, service providers, educational institutions, and government associations operating within the space. IAB Canada members include numerous small and medium sized enterprises and together, represent almost 90% of the $18B digital advertising industry in Canada.
IAB Canada offers comprehensive training, research and industry best practices for the dynamic sector and is an active policy advocate on behalf of the sector. IAB Canada recently received the PICCASO award for the Transparency Consent Framework (TCF Canada) which is designed to enable compliance across the industry for tightening privacy laws in Canada and abroad. Each year, IAB Canada sizes the online advertising industry with its comprehensive revenue survey in partnership with PWC.
Chair: Kamyar Naficy
IABC Contact: member_relations@iabc.com
Membership Cost:
IABC Member - $280 + Chapter and Region dues
IABC+ Member - $420 + Chapter and Region dues
Early Career Member - $195 + Chapter and Region dues
Campus to Career Member - $70 + Chapter and Region dues
Group Member - $238 + Chapter and Region dues
Student Member - $40
Retired Member - $105
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://www.iabc.com/
29. Interactive Advertising Bureau of Canada
The IAB Global network has 43 individually owned and operated national associations worldwide, with this one being in Canada since 1997. IAB Canada’s main mission is to develop and grow the digital marketing and advertising sector in Canada. They highlight this as their selling point for those looking to join a community centered around the digital space.
This non-profit serves over 250 Canadian media companies, ad agencies, advertisers, service providers, schools and government groups. IAB Canada offers a lot of the same services as the other groups on this list such as certifications, research, networking events, advocacy, education, and information on best practices.
President: Sonia Carreno
Interactive Advertising Bureau of Canada Contact: Contact Form
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://iabcanada.com/
31. Multicultural Marketing Alliance Canada
Multicultural Marketing Alliance Canada is the official association of the multicultural marketing, advertising and communications industry in Canada. It is a national, non-profit organization and it was founded by Canada’s leading multicultural marketing agencies in order to champion multicultural communications in Canada.
MMAC promotes a keen appreciation of the incredible diversity of the Canadian consumer market and helps marketers reach multicultural minority Canadian consumers with culturally sensitive, culturally relevant communications. Their mandate is to set the standards for quality multicultural advertising, to establish marketing best practices and to increase understanding of the discipline of multicultural marketing to a diverse Canadian public among Canadian advertisers and marketers and to champion its growth nationally.
President: Robin Brown
Multicultural Marketing Alliance Canada Contact: Contact Form
Membership Cost:
Corporate Membership - $300/year
Individual Membership - $50/year
Student Membership - $25/year
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://mmacanada.ca/
32. Sponsorship Marketing Council of Canada
The Sponsorship Marketing Council Canada was created in 2004 to drive advancements in the field of sponsorship marketing. Their mission is to help brand marketers, agency partners and sponsorship properties unleash the power of sponsorship marketing through education, collaboration and access to the best practices in the industry.
President: Complete List of Board Members
Sponsorship Marketing Council of Canada Contact: contact@sponsorshipmarketing.ca
Membership Cost:
National or Regional: National
To Learn More, Visit https://sponsorshipmarketing.ca/
Whether you're a seasoned marketing professional, just starting your career, or still a student, there's an association or club that’s perfect for you. Joining these organizations not only provides valuable networking opportunities but also fosters professional development through events, collaboration with peers, and insights into the latest industry trends. Engaging with these communities can help you stay ahead in the ever-evolving marketing landscape and expand your skill set.
Take the first step towards advancing your career—explore these marketing clubs and associations today!
Anything you want to change about your organization’s profile? Let us know here and we’ll be happy to fix it.
