The Archery Trade Association is a driving force behind the archery and bowhunting industry, promoting growth, innovation and advocacy to guarantee the success of its members. For retailers and manufacturers, becoming a member of the ATA is not just about joining an organization—it’s about gaining access to important resources, opportunities and a community that promotes innovation and business growth. While the annual ATA Trade Show (ATA Show) is the centerpiece of the association’s offerings, the value of joining the organization extends far beyond this event.
For retailers and manufacturers, here are just a few perks of a membership with the ATA:
- Access to tools, resources and connections necessary to grow your business, including the quarterly Trend Tracker Survey, ATA Bow Technician Certification courses and more.
- A front row seat in the fight to preserve and promote the future of archery and bowhunting.
- Professional development opportunities through the ATA Learning Center (e.g., masterclasses focused on business, coaching, marketing and archery tech).
- Networking opportunities with like-minded professionals and industry leaders, such as entry into the ATA Show.
The ATA’s commitment to increase participation within archery and bowhunting begins with advocacy at the local, state and national levels. As a member, you gain a powerful voice in the fight to preserve and promote the archery and bowhunting industry. One of the ATA’s current advocacy priorities is addressing the issue of Federal Excise Tax slippage.
The FET is an important source of funding for conservation efforts, and while the ATA is actively working and supporting the AFWA to make sure these funds are collected and distributed properly to support wildlife management and conservation, ATA’s primary interest in the FET slippage issue is to level the playing field for U.S. manufacturers, as well as to advocate for our members, who paid $54 million in FET last year while foreign companies selling through this loophole paid $0.
Since the release of a Government Accountability Office report last August titled “Excise Taxes – Action Needed to Improve Compliance for Sport Fishing and Archery Imports,” the ATA has continued to lobby Congress to implement a legislative fix to FET Slippage that aligns with the report’s findings and recommendation.
Through partnerships and lobbying efforts, the ATA is leading the charge to protect the resources that support the industry. By joining the ATA, you’re not just supporting these efforts; you’re becoming part of a united voice that drives meaningful change.
The ATA’s Bow Technician Certification Program offers retailers and their staff the skills and knowledge necessary to provide top notch service to customers. Photo Credit: ATA
The ATA offers numerous programs and services designed to support member success. Whether you’re a retailer looking to improve business operations or a manufacturer focused on expanding reach, the ATA has resources designed to fit your needs.
- Bow Technician Certification Program: The ATA’s Bow Technician Certification Program offers retailers and their staff the skills and knowledge necessary to provide top notch service to customers. This program increases credibility, improves customer satisfaction and drives sales by making sure that retailers are prepared to meet the needs of their customers.
- ATA Learning Center: The ATA Learning Center is a hub of educational resources designed to help members succeed. From webinars and tutorials to educational seminars and how-to guides, the Learning Center covers topics ranging from business operations and marketing to technical skills and industry trends. It’s a one-stop shop for professional development that allows members to stay ahead of the curve.
- Retail Trend Tracker Survey: For those in the archery business, data and reliable facts are critical. To address that need, the ATA provides quarterly survey results highlighting insight from retailers across the country. Feedback is designed to help members adjust to changing conditions regionally, as well as to compare their business to what is happening nationally.
The ATA Show serves as the year’s must-attend event for business transactions, networking and new product launches. Photo Credit: ATA
As the largest archery and bowhunting trade show in the world, the ATA Show is a can’t-miss event for retailers and manufacturers alike. Scheduled to take place January 7-9, 2026, in Indianapolis, Indiana, the Show serves as the year’s must-attend event for business transactions, networking and new product launches.
While there, retailers can see and test new equipment, negotiate deals and stock their shelves with the hottest items of the new year. At the same time, manufacturers and distributors benefit by showcasing their products to retailers, press members and industry professionals.
With thousands of attendees, the ATA Show is the year’s first major opportunity to drive sales and build key relationships.
The ATA is more than an organization—it’s a partner in your success. By joining the ATA, you’re investing in the future of your business and the industry as a whole. Whether you’re a retailer looking to increase foot traffic or a manufacturer focused on increased product exposure, the ATA is here to help you achieve your goals.
Visit www.archerytrade.org to learn more about the association, explore membership options and join today. You can also contact ATA’s membership department directly (507) 233-8133 or by email at kimwatson@archerytrade.org.
Together, we can inspire growth and increase participation within the archery and bowhunting industry.
WE ARE HERE TO HELP THE INDUSTRY, TO HELP INDIVIDUAL BUSINESSES GET THE MOST OUT OF THE INDUSTRY, AND TO HELP YOU.
