AOBA is here to support owners and breeders of alpacas! A world-class marketing program and Show System serves the mutual benefit of all members. AOBA increases awareness
of the alpaca as livestock to non-breeders and the use of their exquisite fiber in garments and household items of every type. Through the AOBA Show System alpaca shows
are governed, approved and conferences/educational events held. AOBA is working with other alpaca organizations such as the Alpaca Registry Inc, Alpaca Fiber Cooperative
of North America, Alpaca Research Foundation, and Alpaca United setting the direction of the industry.
Why should I be a member?
Your AOBA Membership gives you access to Alpacas Magazine, communication via email (AOBA to member and member to member), an
extensive library of books, videos, and other publications providing a wealth of information about raising alpacas, farming techniques, training, husbandry, veterinarian
care, health and research advances, and marketing methods. AOBA produces a number of brochures and other marketing materials to assist members which are all available
through the AOBA Store. Online access to thousands of leads (non-breeders requesting information) allowing you to market on a local, regional or national level.
Marketing! The AOBA Marketing Committee, a volunteer organization, provides the infrastructure for the growth of the industry and
the financial success of the AOBA membership. Through the National Marketing Program, AOBA members have access to those interested in alpacas promoted through website
and print advertising. We average over 300,000 web visitors per year from potential alpaca farmers. Farm members can also choose to participate in the Member Advertising
Program (MAP), which funds the industry’s centralized advertising and PR. By pooling our marketing dollars, AOBA members can obtain the best value for those dollars
benefiting farms large and small, new and established. In addition, AOBA has produced several marketing pieces, which are excellent tools to educate the public at
farm events, fairs and meet and greet functions. Progressive and unique in its efficiency and results, the AOBA marketing program is top in its class and reaps
significant benefits for members who put it to work for their farms or ranches. ONLINE MARKETING PROGRAM
Political Action - If you are serious about the alpaca industry or just getting started, your voice needs to be heard in determining
the direction of this industry. Participating in this industry makes us all stronger and capable for the future. AOBA members are a very diverse group with many different
opinions and ideas. While the dialogues about the shaping of the industry occasionally heat up a bit, AOBA members can almost universally be described as a group of highly
intelligent, motivated, and caring individuals with a sincere interest in the mutual success of ALL alpaca breeders. Our Government and Industry Relations Committee
(an AOBA and ARI joint committee) helps the members achieve goals and objectives in this area.
AOBA Certified Shows – Truly a world-class show system developed to promote positive public awareness of the unique
qualities of alpacas and to improve the breed and enhance their marketability while most importantly promoting and protecting the health and well-being of alpacas. The show system was internally developed by alpaca industry members. Attending these shows can prove to be a highly educational, exciting and enjoyable experience. Shows use an evaluative system that rewards merit and quality of exhibited alpacas through an equally balanced assessment of fiber and conformation according to
standards and criteria established by industry members. Characterized by a judge training and certification system based upon objective assessment of skills and
competency, there is a wide participation of industry members in showing and judging by adhering to a code of fairness and highest ethics.
UPCOMING SHOWS
Member Support - The most important aspect of membership is member support. The AOBA office staff, the many volunteer committees and your Board of Directors is here to serve you and provide support for new and existing breeders. AOBA staff is available to educate and help you navigate your member benefits and marketing opportunities. The AOBA Shows and show related social events are fun and allow members can discuss and share ideas and successful programs.
Everything is easier when you have help and support to guide you in the proper direction instead of reinventing the wheel on your own.
AOBA is the alpaca industry organization…put it to work for you and your alpacas!
