The American Institute of Architects

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is the largest professional membership organisation for architects and design professionals in the United States. Founded in 1857 by 13 architects meeting in Richard Upjohn's office in New York, it now has more than 101,000 members, represents some 20,000 architecture firms, and operates more than 200 chapters worldwide. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., it serves as the professional body and advocacy voice of the architectural profession.

Its work spans advocacy, education and professional development. Technical focus areas include architectural research, climate action and sustainability strategy, equity and inclusion, and firm ownership and business management. Members are offered research resources, guidance on running and owning a practice, business-skills programmes, and compensation data for the profession. The AIA Conference on Architecture & Design is held annually and brings together professionals from around the world to examine developments in architecture and design.

AIA describes its mission as a commitment to a zero-carbon, resilient, healthy, just and equitable built environment. Equity and inclusion initiatives sit alongside programmes intended to strengthen communities and drive change through design. The organisation works across the architecture, design and built environment sectors in the United States and, through its chapters, internationally.