WIFM's U.S. Membership Model FAQs

Why is WIFM introducing a U.S. membership fee?
Since 2007, WIFM has provided programming at no cost through the generous support of our corporate sponsors. As our community has grown to thousands of members and dozens of programs annually across multiple U.S. cities and globally, sponsorships alone are no longer sufficient to support this scale. Introducing a U.S. membership fee ensures long-term sustainability, maintains program quality, and supports continued growth.

 

When does the new membership model take effect?
The new U.S. membership model takes effect on January 1, 2026.

 

When does my membership start, and how long does it last?
All paid U.S. memberships run on a calendar-year basis, from January 1 through December 31. For the first year of implementation, memberships will run from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026, regardless of when you upgrade during the year. 

 

Will my membership automatically renew?
Yes. Champion and Visionary memberships will automatically renew annually. You will receive advance notice prior to renewal, giving you the opportunity to upgrade, downgrade, or cancel before your membership renews.

 

What happens if I take no action?
No action is required. All current U.S.-based members will automatically become Insider members at no cost beginning January 1, 2026. You will continue receiving WIFM communications and event invitations with à la carte pricing.

 

What are the U.S. membership tiers?

INSIDER

CHAMPION

VISIONARY

Complimentary

$275/year (Tri-State area)
$150/year (All Other U.S.)

$500/year (Tri-State area)
$300/year (All Other U.S.)

  • Receive WIFM email updates and newsletters
  • Free admission to WIFM virtual events and WIFM Speed Networking Events
  • Invitations to WIFM Events with a la carte pricing for those held in-person ($35/event for non-sponsor firms, $25 for sponsor firms)
  • Access to apply to the WIFM Mentorship Program
  • Receive WIFM email updates and newsletters
  • Complimentary access to all WIFM events (virtual & in-person) with timely RSVP 
  • Access to apply to the WIFM Mentorship Program
  • Access to apply to the WIFM Wolfpack Program
  • Priority invitation and discounted ticket price to attend WIFM’s Annual Conference
  • Receive WIFM email updates and newsletters
  • Complimentary access to all WIFM Events (virtual & in-person) with timely RSVP
  • Priority access to limited-capacity programs and events
  • Access to apply to the WIFM Mentorship Program
  • Access to apply to the WIFM Wolfpack Program
  • Invitation to exclusive member-only networking events
  • Opportunity to be added to the WIFM Speakers Bureau Database
  • Priority invitation and discounted ticket price to attend WIFM’s Annual Conference
  • Opportunity to purchase individual ticket for WIFM’s flagship Gala & Awards Ceremony in New York (subject to availability)

 

Why is pricing different for the Tri-State area versus the rest of the U.S.?
Tri-State pricing applies to members whose primary place of work or residence is in New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut. This reflects the significantly higher volume of WIFM programming and operating costs in the Tri-State region.

 

My firm is a sponsor of WIFM. Can I still attend events without a paid membership?
Yes. Members from WIFM sponsor firms may continue to attend events at discounted sponsor rates without upgrading to a paid membership.

 

How do I know if my firm is a WIFM sponsor?
You may review sponsor listings on WIFM event invitations or the WIFM website, check internally with your firm, or contact the WIFM team directly for confirmation.

 

Can I join the Wolfpack program if I become a member mid-year?
The WIFM Wolfpack Program operates on a calendar-year basis. To be eligible, you must hold a Champion or Visionary membership and apply during the Wolfpack application window, which typically opens in late December or early January.

 

Why are membership fees only required for U.S.-based members?
WIFM is currently incorporated as a U.S.-based not-for-profit organization and, at this time, is limited in its ability to collect membership and sponsorship fees outside of the United States. As a result, membership fees are currently being applied only to U.S.-based members.

WIFM continues to evaluate its global structure and capabilities as the organization grows internationally.

 

What does this mean for international members?
International members (outside of the U.S.) continue with complimentary membership. In-person international events are subject to à la carte pricing of $10 per event, or $5 per event if your firm is a WIFM sponsor.

 

How do I upgrade my membership?
U.S.-based members may upgrade to Champion or Visionary at any time using the membership links.

 

Who can I contact with questions?
For questions regarding membership, eligibility, or pricing, please contact:
WIFM Membership [email protected]