Associations have long invested in platforms, workshops, and digital roadmaps. Still, the outcomes often feel fragmented. AI is intriguing, but for many, it remains a slide deck talking point—not an operational tool.
That’s what made this year’s ASAE MMC + Tech feel different.
Instead of echoing the same transformation slogans, 2025’s event leaned hard into execution. From hallway conversations to standing-room sessions, it was clear: leaders are ready to stop planning and start doing. 108 ideaspace was proud to be part of that movement.
The Real Obstacle: It’s Not the Tools—It’s the Disconnect
Across both days, one challenge stood out: associations aren’t falling short because of bad tech. They’re stuck because teams are working in isolation, systems don’t talk to each other, and AI feels more like a risk than a roadmap.
The need isn’t more software. It’s alignment—across leadership, teams, and mission.
Our Contribution: From Thousands of Submissions to the Main Stage
Being selected to present at ASAE’s MMC + Tech 2025 wasn’t just another item on our to-do list—it was a moment of real recognition for the work we’ve been doing alongside associations across North America.
Out of thousands of proposals, 108 ideaspace was invited to deliver a session that tackled the question on every leader’s mind: How do we actually put AI to work, in a way that drives value—not chaos?
Our session—“From Vision to Reality: Crafting a Generative AI Strategy for Thriving Associations”—was built for action.
The room filled fast. Notebooks were open. Executives came ready, not just to learn, but to lead. And we delivered:
- A framework to connect AI with mission and member value
- Steps for lightweight, effective governance
- Tools and models that scale without overwhelming teams
- A living roadmap that evolves with the organization
This wasn’t about chasing the next trend. It was about giving leaders a real strategy—and a clear starting point.
We walked off that stage proud. Not just because we were heard, but because we gave people something they could act on.
Ashish (CEO) and Sunil ( Director, Client Success) at booth @77 at MMC+Tech 2025.
Ashish with David Schulman, President at Association Rewired, and Johnny Clayton, Co-Founder at Fuse Next.
Ashish with Walid Bengeloune, General Manager at Swapcard.
What the Sector Is Really Thinking About
While AI was a hot topic, it wasn’t the only one. These sessions drew heavy attendance because they tapped into the real, day-to-day concerns of today’s association executives:
“The Cost of Standing Still: Identifying the Technical Debt Limiting Your Marketing Strategy”
This session addressed a quiet but massive challenge: legacy systems that slow down innovation. It made clear that transformation isn’t always about adding—it’s often about fixing what’s broken.
“Mastering Member Engagement: Unlock the Power of End-to-End Journey Mapping”
A favorite among membership and engagement leads, this session showed how fragmented experiences drive member fatigue—and how mapping the full journey can lead to better retention and value delivery.
“Enhancing the Accessibility of Your Membership Experience Through MarCom”
Inclusion was a clear priority this year. This session offered practical steps to improve digital accessibility without major rework, making member engagement broader and more equitable.
“AI Agents Unleashed: A Practical Guide for Association Leaders”
This talk cut through the hype and offered concrete examples of how associations are already using AI, especially in member support and content workflows. It underscored that generative AI isn’t experimental anymore—it’s operational.
“Opening Keynote: Bridging the Narrative Gap: The Key to Influence and Leadership”
René Rodriguez’s keynote reframed leadership not as a title, but as the ability to guide perception in uncertain times. The message resonated deeply in a sector where change is constant and communication is everything.
“Closing Keynote: The Leader of the Future: Adapting, Leading, and Inspiring in a Changing World”
John Spence closed the conference with a challenge to build adaptable, clear-eyed leadership cultures. His message: tomorrow’s most successful associations will be led by executives who can lead through ambiguity, not around it.
Final Thought: Transformation Is a Team Sport
ASAE MMC + Tech 2025 proved that associations aren’t lacking ambition. They’re lacking connection between systems, teams, and strategy. The appetite to act is there. What leaders need now is alignment and support.
At 108 ideaspace, we don’t push disruption for disruption’s sake. We help associations build technology strategies that are measurable, mission-aligned, and member-focused.
The future won’t wait. Fortunately, neither will the people leading it.
