The Private Directors Association is a Chicago-based, independent 501(c)(6) founded in 2014. It is the only national association dedicated to improving private companies' growth and sustainability through board governance.

With over 3,000 members, The Private Directors Association represents a diverse and highly experienced community of executive leaders, including current and qualified future board members, private company owners, C-level executives of family-owned businesses, ESOPs, private equity-backed companies, and early-stage ventures.

The PDA mission is to:

  • Advocate for and teach board formation and governance
  • Enhance private company value through high-performing boards
  • Advocate for the value of diverse and inclusive boards
  • Create a national alliance of directors, executives, and private company owners interested in board service to learn, network, and identify and attract exceptional board members