Reflections on the Annual Innovators Alliance Member Survey

Innovators Alliance (IA) is unique to other peer to peer networking groups in several ways. As a not-for-profit organization that operates chapters exclusively in Ontario, 100% of the funds generated by IA are re-invested into advancing the benefit of Innovators and supporting the membership.

Our only priority is ensuring that members are seeing the benefits of their membership through the growth of themselves as leaders, and of their businesses. We recently ran a member survey to better understand the member experience, as well as to see how we can continue to evolve in areas that will best meet the needs of the Alliance.

Members Rank Value of IA Membership

When asked, members provided the following details regarding the most valuable elements of their membership (in order of importance):

#1. Structured, monthly Chapter meetings, professionally facilitated by Chapter Chairs. These 3-hour meetings follow a standard agenda that includes a member check in, the exploration of key topical themes, and a deep dive into an ‘Innovation Journey’, providing the opportunity for other members to include input and advice.

#2. The Chapter community, which provides constructive, honest, supportive peer feedback and accountability. Due to the nature of the meetings, the discussion that takes place, the relationships within each Chapter are deep and meaningful. Together members navigate all elements of life and work.

#3. Access to subject matter experts through webinars, workshops, and conferences – including two power meetings taking place each year.

When we asked members where they have seen the greatest gains because of their IA membership, the following answers were shared:

• I have increased clarity in my role and my ability to impact my business – 72%
• I have greater confidence and self-awareness as a leader – 70%
• I leverage my network of Alliance peers who I can go to for input and advice – 69%

Upcoming Priorities, Challenges and Opportunities

When we asked about what the biggest challenge for members was right now, nearly 50% of the membership confirmed that people and HR related challenges were at the top of their list, followed by revenue/cash flow, and then growth (increased sales, new clients, new product development).

When asked about their priorities over the next 12-months, members shared:

• Improve the growth / profitability of my organization – (38%)
• Use of the network to learn and improve in a confidential setting (18%)
• Receive honest advice from peers who have no conflict of interest (17%)
• Obtain accurate benchmarks and best practices on key issues (9%)

When asked; “What other valuable resources or programs could Innovators Alliance provide that would be of interest to you?” the following supports were requested:

• Industry specific meetings / breakout sessions – 44%
• A platform or forum to share CEO / Entrepreneurial specific resources (podcasts, books, etc.) – 41%
• Executive coaching and/or coaching for my team – 41%
• More opportunities for strictly social gatherings within my Chapter – 28%
• Mentorship opportunities – 25%

Thank you to all the members who generously shared their input into this survey.  We are working with our existing strategic partners and our leadership team to ensure we continue to deliver – and enhance – the resources, supports and tools that you have come to rely upon from us to innovate and drive your business forward profitably and sustainably. Stay tuned for new opportunities for engagement and development to come!

If you understand the value of learning with and from other like-minded entrepreneurs, consider attending an Innovators Alliance event. Innovators Alliance is Canada’s most valued ‘idea ecosystem’ for entrepreneurs, developed by entrepreneurs.

Join us in-person or virtually to explore a fit for you and your business. You’ll meet other business innovators, share knowledge about handling business challenges, and discuss solutions in an atmosphere of confidentiality, respect, and mutual support.