Industry Partners

The stained glass field does not exist in isolation. The SGAA has been a professional trade association since 1903, and as a 501(c)6 organization, its purpose has always been the same: to advance the mutual interests of an entire industry, not just the studios at the center of it. That means the field only works when the whole ecosystem works together.

The manufacturers who develop better glass. The suppliers who keep studios running. The educators training the next generation of artists. The preservation organizations fighting for the resources to protect historic windows. These are not peripheral to the stained glass field. They are the stained glass field.

Industry Partnership is not a sponsorship tier. It is a seat at the table for the companies and organizations that have a real stake in whether this industry thrives, and who want to be part of the conversation that determines how it does.

Who Should Apply?

Industry Partnership is open to companies and organizations with a vested interest in the preservation, advancement, and innovation of the stained glass trade. This includes:

• Manufacturers and Suppliers — companies producing or distributing materials, tools, and safety equipment to studios and retailers
• Retailers and Wholesalers — businesses selling stained glass supplies and materials to hobbyists and professionals, not involved in producing work
• Educational Partners — schools and programs participating in training, apprenticeship, or glass education initiatives
• Preservation Organizations — aligned stakeholders with a commitment to sustainable stained glass practices
• Corporate Partners — institutions contributing to industry research, publications, or events that benefit the glass trades

What Industry Partners Receive

• Use of the SGAA Industry Partner logo
• SGQ magazine subscription
• Sourcebook directory listing and profile at stainedglass.org
• Access to the SGAA membership list
• Voting rights on membership and technical documents (1 vote)
• Early access and discounted rates to conferences, regional events, and educational programs
• Eligibility to serve on SGAA Committees and the Board of Directors
• Invitation to General Membership Meetings
• Access to the SGAA Member Portal and SGQ Archives

The Application Process

The Industry Partner application is straightforward. There is no multi-year prerequisite, and the documentation requirements reflect the nature of a business partnership rather than a craft credential.

Step 1: Complete the Application Fill out the application form with your company information and select your industry classification. Briefly describe how your company supports the stained and decorative glass field (300 words maximum).

Step 2: Confirm Your Engagement Applicants must demonstrate at least one form of active engagement with the SGAA or the field: conference sponsorship or attendance with a vendor booth, advertising in SGQ, or a documented industry-specific project or contribution.

Step 3: Gather Your Documentation Supporting materials include business license or FEIN, proof of liability insurance, company mission statement, a letter of recommendation from a current SGAA Professional or Accredited Professional member, and recent marketing materials.

Step 4: Submit Send your completed application and all documentation to membership@stainedglass.org. Include your signed acknowledgment of the SGAA Code of Ethics.

Step 5: Interview Applicants complete a panel interview with the SGAA Membership Credentials Committee, conducted at a conference or via Zoom.

👉 Download the Industry Partner Forms (PDF) (opens new window) ↗