Membership Overview
We believe business travel is a fundamental force for good. Meeting face to face deepens relationships, fosters collaboration, and develops culture in ways that technology alone can never truly replicate. It drives progress for businesses, governments, economies, and people. As the barriers and challenges facing business travel evolve and change, we must continue to innovate and set new standards as an industry, bringing many perspectives together under one roof. GBTA is the platform for all sides to come together to tackle how travel can adapt to and drive dynamic transformations in the workplace, from the changing way people work, to new attitudes towards managing risk, to improving sustainability.
If you plan to attend the GBTA Global Convention, an All Access Membership is required. This membership not only grants you entry to the Convention but also provides full access to GBTA’s extensive global resources, including industry research, educational programs, and a wide network of international members. For those looking to engage more locally, the Local Membership focuses on regional chapter events and networking opportunities but does not include access to the Global Convention or GBTA’s international resources. It you want to know more about which membership is best for you here are the Benefits of each type of membership.
Why Join:
Joining a local GBTA Kansas City chapter offers significant advantages, especially for professionals in the business travel industry. Here are a few key reasons:
1. Networking and Community
- Local GBTA chapters connect members with a community of like-minded professionals, offering direct access to peers, industry experts, and potential partners. The relationships you build can lead to valuable insights, collaborations, and professional support.
2. Professional Development
- Local chapters often host workshops, speaker events, and education sessions on trending topics in travel management, technology, sustainability, and more. Through these events, members can gain skills and knowledge that directly support their career growth.
3. Industry Influence and Advocacy
- Being part of a local chapter means you can actively participate in discussions on industry challenges and advocate for change. Local chapters, supported by GBTA’s global reach, are a unified voice that addresses issues impacting business travel at both a national and local level.
4. Mentorship and Career Support
- Many chapters have mentorship programs that connect seasoned professionals with those newer to the industry. This not only helps members develop their careers but also ensures industry knowledge and best practices are shared across generations.
5. Community and Social Impact
- Most chapters have philanthropic initiatives that allow members to give back to their communities. Participating in these programs helps foster a sense of community and builds a positive reputation for the chapter and its members.
6. Stay Ahead of Industry Trends
- Local chapters are often quick to share and discuss new developments affecting travel, like policy changes, sustainability practices, and innovative travel solutions. Being part of these conversations helps members stay proactive and informed.
7. Global Connection with a Local Touch
- While each chapter is part of the larger GBTA organization, they tailor their activities to local members' needs and challenges. This provides members with the best of both worlds: the local relevance of a small network and the resources of a global association.
In short, a local GBTA chapter membership is an opportunity to grow professionally, make a meaningful impact in the industry, and build lasting relationships within a supportive community.
Community Membership Types:
GBTA local chapters typically offer several types of memberships, allowing professionals to choose one that best fits their needs and role within the business travel industry.
Direct Membership: Corporate business travel buyers, meeting managers, or travel policy administrators on behalf of your company.
Allied Membership: Corporate business travel suppliers who sell travel related goods and services to Direct members.
Each membership type offers unique benefits tailored to various career stages, allowing members to find value whether they are new to the industry, actively managing travel programs, or providing travel-related services.
Membership Dues:
If you are a sponsorship, please reference your sponsorship type as it may include annual memberships.
· Allied Member - $175.00 ($300.00 to pre-paid events for the year)
· Direct Member - $175.00 ($300.00 to pre-paid events for the year)
· Membership Name Change - $50.00
Meeting Fees:
· Member - $35.00
· Non-Member - $50.00
· New First Time Attendee – $0.00
· Special Event Fees – Based on type of event and sponsorship
Meeting fees help chapters cover the costs of event spaces, speakers, and resources, ensuring high-quality experiences for attendees and adding value to membership in the local chapter.
