Bringing the loss prevention community together to make a difference, Industry Associations and Industry Initiatives are intended for specific objectives, operations, causes, or events in a way that inspires action and drives performance for the betterment of its members, the industry, and the community in general. These initiatives unite us towards a common goal, they enhance the way we communicate, and provide a positive reflection of the industry as a whole.

The Outstanding Industry Association / Industry Initiative of the Year category is intended to recognize outstanding performance worthy of recognition during a specific year. To be eligible for nomination, the examples of the success of the Industry Association / Industry Initiative must represent the calendar year of nomination. An Industry Association / Industry Initiative may be nominated by a third party, or individuals may nominate their own Association / Initiative. 

in no particular order....

Here's what people are saying about the Western States Organized Retail Crime Alliance:
The Western States Organized Retail Crime Alliance (WSORCA) was founded during the isolation of COVID-19 by leaders from law enforcement and retail who recognized the need for a collaborative, action-driven approach to fighting organized retail crime (ORC). Bringing together 11 ORCAs from 9 states, WSORCA fosters partnerships between law enforcement, prosecutors, retailers, online marketplaces, and solution providers to combat ORC through intelligence-sharing, strategic investigations, and proactive crime prevention. In 2024, WSORCA hosted a three-day event in Salt Lake City, UT, drawing nearly 350 attendees for education, networking, and real-world investigative collaboration. This event was not just a conference—it was a game-changer. By connecting law enforcement task forces, private-sector investigators, and prosecutors, WSORCA helped strengthen cross-jurisdictional investigations and disrupt criminal networks. Key Achievements & Impact Unifying ORC Efforts Across States – WSORCA fosters collaboration between multiple ORCAs, law enforcement agencies, and retailers, strengthening investigations and case outcomes. Innovative Intelligence-Sharing – By engaging online marketplaces, WSORCA helps disrupt illicit sales of stolen goods and enhances digital enforcement strategies. Elevating Solution Providers as Partners – Vendors are integrated as true crime-fighting partners, ensuring that technology and expertise support enforcement efforts. Expanding Impact & Growth – In 2025, WSORCA will convene in Seaside, Oregon, on September 10-12 for its second annual in-person conference, with over 600 attendees expected as the movement rapidly grows. Enhancing Public Safety – By addressing ORC as both a retail and community safety issue, WSORCA promotes a proactive approach to crime prevention. WSORCA is a trailblazer in ORC collaboration, setting the industry standard for intelligence-sharing, investigative success, and crime reduction. For its exceptional leadership and impact, WSORCA is the ideal recipient of the LP Hall Industry Association/Initiative of the Year award.  

Here's what people are saying about the IAI - Southeast Chapter:
....... A finalist for Outstanding Industry Association of the Year in 2024, the IAI Southeast Chapter helps loss prevention practitioners at all levels improve their investigative interviewing proficiency, to achieve favorable retail investigation outcomes for Fortune 500 retailers across America. Each quarterly chapter event attracts a near standing room only host of LP and HR professionals who come to sharpen their investigative interviewing acumen and learn from renown LP industry leaders and leading experts on the ever evolving science of investigative interviewing. The high rate of returning professionals, year-over-year, is proof positive that meeting participants’ careers are highly-enriched with every event.

........It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate the IAI Southeast (SE) Chapter for recognition of its exceptional contributions to professional development and education in the field of investigative interviewing. Though still in its early years, the SE Chapter has made a significant impact by offering innovative and practical training opportunities that support and enhance the skills of interviewers across the region. Since its inception, the Chapter has maintained a clear mission: to elevate the craft of interviewing through education, collaboration, and access to high-quality resources. Now entering its third year, the Chapter continues to build on the strong foundation laid by its founding board. Its consistent delivery of relevant and engaging content has drawn growing interest from professionals eager to improve their techniques and understanding of the interview process. The Chapter has hosted a series of outstanding presentations, including AI Demonstration and Education, ORCA Investigations, and compelling case discussions—each carefully designed to deepen knowledge and promote critical thinking among attendees. These offerings exemplify the Chapter’s commitment to practical, hands-on learning that addresses current trends and real-world challenges. The IAI SE Chapter exemplifies excellence in advancing the field of investigative interviewing and remains a driving force in fostering community, innovation, and professional growth. I wholeheartedly recommend the SE Chapter for recognition and commend the board for their dedication, vision, and service to the field.  

.......I am proud to nominate the IAI Southeast Chapter for the Outstanding Industry Association of the Year award in recognition of its remarkable contributions to the loss prevention community during 2024. Over the past year, the IAI Southeast Chapter has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to uniting and strengthening the LP community across the region. Through the tireless efforts and strategic focus of Carmen DuBose (Chairman) and the Board, the Chapter has:
• Grown its membership to over 300 active loss prevention professionals, reinforcing its role as a central hub for LP collaboration and knowledge sharing in the Southeast.
• Delivered three free, high-impact training sessions in key southeastern markets, ensuring valuable, accessible professional development opportunities for LP practitioners at all levels.
• Hosted more than a dozen engaging speakers and solution providers, bringing fresh insights, best practices, and innovation directly to the LP community.
• Prioritized networking and professional engagement, creating forums and events that foster stronger connections, peer mentorship, and cross-functional learning throughout the region.
 
The Southeast Chapter has consistently operated with purpose and vision, inspiring action and improving performance for the benefit of its members and the broader LP industry. By enhancing communication, promoting collaboration, and delivering real value, the IAI Southeast Chapter has not only served as a shining example of what an industry association can achieve, but has also helped elevate the profession as a whole. I believe the Chapter’s 2024 accomplishments are not only worthy of recognition, but also serve as a model for how local industry associations can drive meaningful, lasting impact.