Why has WILD decided to formalize their membership structure?
To allow personal agency for someone to be included in the WILD community, or not.
A WILD membership includes the opportunity to have your accomplishments and activities celebrated and promoted. We recognize that not everyone would like this endorsement from WILD, and making the choice to become a member provides us this information.
In addition, our new membership portal will allow our community the ability to update their contact information more easily, and allows us to create a private and safe online space for our members to interact, regardless of global location.
Is WILD open to everyone?
Membership is for individuals, not for companies or organizations. Sponsorship opportunities are available for companies or organizations looking to support WILD.
For Individuals, WILD is an inclusive organization and we welcome all women in lighting and our allies to be part of our community. All members play an essential role in ensuring that WILD voices are heard and in helping advocate for all underrepresented genders in the lighting industry. We also trust our allies to know when space is needed to support safe and open conversations.
Those without a membership are also welcome at our events, unless specifically noted as members-only.
Are there any rules members must follow?
All members must agree to abide by the Women in Lighting + Design (WILD)
Why isn’t my Chapter location listed?
WILD has established certain criteria for a Chapter to maintain its status, including required offerings for membes (you can read all the details in our Chapter Charter found here). All locations that have signed the Charter are listed as current Chapters. Locations that have not yet met or agreed to the Charter requiremenets have reverted to Forming-Chapter status. A full list of both can be found here. We continue to work with all our interested locations to ensure successful growth and engagement.
How much does a membership cost?
Professional Membership is $20 per year.
Emerging Professional Membership is $10 per year.
Student Membership is $0 per year.
Retired Membership is $0 per year.
Honorary Membership is $0 per year.
Needs-Based memberships are available for both Professional and Emerging Professional for $0 per year.
Are my membership dues tax deductible?
WILD is a 501(c)6 organization and contributions are not deductible as charitable donations. Dues may be deductible as trade or business expenses.
When will I receive my Membership Pin?
All Chapters will receive pins to hand out at events, and you may also stop by a WILD table at any industry conference.
My membership is currently pending. How long does it take to be approved?
The approval process can take up to one (1) week.