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. Sponsorship remains a core pillar of WIFM’s mission and model. The new membership structure complements—rather than replaces—the sponsorship partnerships that have made WIFM’s growth possible.

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.

How is WIFM sponsorship different from individual membership?

WIFM sponsorship is a firm-level partnership that supports our mission and programming. It provides brand visibility, discounted event access for your employees, and participation in WIFM’s flagship experiences including the annual WIFM Gala and Awards Ceremony. Individual membership is a personal benefit that provides expanded access to programming, priority registration, member-only opportunities, and additional networking experiences. Sponsorship and membership are complementary but distinct. Your sponsorship supports WIFM’s mission at the organizational level, while membership offers enhanced individual engagement for designated employees.

Can employees at sponsor firms still attend WIFM events without a paid membership?

Yes. Employees from WIFM sponsor firms may continue to attend events at discounted sponsor rates without upgrading to a paid membership. This is unchanged under the new model.

For employees who remain Insider members (the complimentary tier), in-person events will be available at $25 per event (compared to $35 for non-sponsor firms). Virtual events and Speed Networking events remain complimentary for all members.

Will my 2025 sponsorship benefits change?

No. All 2025 sponsorship benefits remain unchanged and will continue through the end of the year as outlined in your current sponsorship package.

Will sponsor firms receive complimentary memberships as part of their 2026 sponsorship?

Yes. As part of 2026 sponsorship packages, WIFM will provide a defined number of complimentary Champion or Visionary memberships for designated employees at your firm. The number of memberships will be based on your sponsorship level.

What are the membership tiers, and what do they include?

There are three U.S. membership tiers:

What happens to employees at sponsor firms under the new membership model?

Beginning January 1, 2026, all U.S.-based individuals who do not hold a paid membership will automatically be included as Insider members at no cost. Employees at sponsor firms will continue to receive sponsor firm benefits, including discounted event pricing ($25/event instead of $35/event for Insider members). Additionally, as part of your 2026 sponsorship package, your firm will receive a defined number of complimentary Champion or Visionary memberships to allocate to designated employees, providing enhanced individual benefits beyond standard sponsor access.

Can employees at sponsor firms apply to the WIFM Wolfpack Program?

Only Champion or Visionary members are eligible to apply to the WIFM Wolfpack Program. Employees at sponsor firms who wish to participate in Wolfpack must hold a Champion or Visionary membership.

How can employees verify that our firm is a WIFM sponsor?

Employees may review sponsor listings on WIFM event invitations or the WIFM website, check internally with your firm’s designated WIFM contact, or reach out to the WIFM team directly for confirmation at [email protected].

What about our international employees?

International employees (outside of the U.S.) continue with complimentary membership. In-person international events are subject to à la carte pricing of $5 per event for sponsor firm employees (compared to $10 per event for non-sponsor firms).

Who should we reach out to with additional questions?

For questions regarding sponsorship, membership, or the new model, please contact:
WIFM Membership
[email protected]