Resources for navigating economic uncertainty

Find the support you need

Explore practical tools, insights, and resources designed to help you respond to changing economic conditions. Find guidance to make informed decisions, address immediate challenges, and plan for what comes next. 

• Quarterly economic updates with AIA’s Chief Economist
  Join free, live quarterly economic updates with AIA Chief Economist Richard Branch and AIA EVP/Chief Executive Officer Carole Wedge, FAIA, to get ahead of emerging challenges and inform your strategic planning with the latest economic data and trends.
• AIA Architecture Billings Index® (ABI)
  Gain monthly economic indicators and insights that use proprietary AIA data to predict nonresidential construction activity 9–12 months ahead. Scroll for links to individual monthly reports.
• AIA Consensus Construction Forecast 
  See what’s ahead for the construction industry with this twice-a-year survey of the nation’s leading construction economists who forecast business conditions over the next 12–18 months.
• Economic & industry resources
  Compare architecture industry trends from primary data sources for informed business decision-making.

• AIA Business Academy (members save up to $2650)
  A high-impact, four-part intensive program designed to equip firm leaders with the strategy, leadership, and financial skills to scale their practice and drive long-term success. Registration for Cohort 3 opens in Fall 2026.
• AIAU
  Get 24/7 access to premium, on-demand architecture and design courses and certificate programs. 
  
  Business Acumen in Architecture & Design (members save $90)
  
  Business Acumen: A Catalyst for Professional Growth & Prosperity (free for members)
  
  Strategic Planning & Growth Strategies for Design Firms (members save $15)
  
  Building & Scaling a Successful Design Practice (members save $60)
• AIA Business of Architecture Firm Survey Report (free for members)
  The only report that covers the full complexity of firms that power the architecture and design profession.
• AIA Architect
  Gain new ideas on how to promote, market, and improve your business strategy with these articles. 
  
  Q&A with AIA Chief Economist Richard Branch
  
  Five ways to maximize the value of value engineering
  
  Fluctuating billings: how to come out on top
  
  Five ways to level up your firm marketing
• Built for Business podcast
  A new podcast that delivers practical insights on firm leadership, client relationships, financial performance, and more to help architects build stronger, more profitable firms.

• AIA Career Center
  AIA members receive a free resume review ($75 value) when they create an AIA Career Center Profile as well as special pricing on resume writing, reference checking, and career coaching services.
• Free salary calculator
  Instantly view salary ranges for 20 different architecture positions, powered by AIA Compensation & Benefits Report 2025 data.
• AIA Compensation & Benefits Report (members save 40%)
  Every conversation about pay and benefits is easier with trusted data in hand. Use it to evaluate professional opportunities, plan a career move, or design a compensation package.
• Get licensed
  Earning your license is an investment in what comes next, giving you greater flexibility, more career options, and new opportunities to grow. Explore resources to help you take the next step.
• Volunteer with AIA
  Strengthen your leadership skills by volunteering for a board-level or knowledge-based committee, state-based group, or industry representative. Applications open May 2027
• Find or become a mentor
  Mentorship is a powerful driver of career success. Connect with AIA’s mentorship programs.

• Mental Health & Well-being in Architecture: From Academia to Practice (members save $15)
  Course shares career-spanning perspectives.

• AIA chapters
  Your AIA chapter is more than just a network—it’s part of your professional home base, a trusted space for guidance, support, and inspiration. With over 200 chapters worldwide, there's always a colleague to lean on, an event to spark new ideas, and a resource to help you navigate economic uncertainties. Find your chapter and plug into a powerful community.
• AIA Knowledge Communities
  AIA’s Knowledge Communities are your source for new connections & information. Network and connect with your peers around the world and stay on top of your areas of interest through events (both in-person and virtual) and engage through the discussion forums.

Contact us for support

If you need assistance finding the right resources or have specific questions, we’re here to help. Contact us to get personalized guidance tailored to your situation.

If you’ve recently lost your job, your AIA membership may be more valuable than ever in helping you get back on your feet. Members experiencing financial hardship, unemployment, or other exceptional circumstances may request dues adjustment or waivers by contacting their local AIA component.