Scaling CPR: A New Vision for Trade Associations

This piece proposes that trade associations are positioned to be powerful groundbreakers for business—helping shape rules that enable long-term value and healthy competition. But without clear standards, the authors argue, these same associations risk acting as bodyguards for narrow interests, distorting markets, block innovation and undermining trust in business and government. This piece proposes applying CPR principles—Legitimacy, Transparency, Accountability, and Responsibility—to guide more consistent, credible association advocacy aligned with shared business and societal goals, and the ultimate promise of free markets.