The Alternative Investment Management Association Limited (AIMA) is the global representative body for the alternative investment industry, encompassing hedge fund managers, private credit managers, fund of hedge fund managers, prime brokers, legal and accounting firms, investors, fund administrators, and independent fund directors. Founded in 1990 and incorporated in 2002, AIMA serves over 2,000 corporate members across more than 60 countries, whose fund managers collectively manage assets exceeding US$4 trillion in hedge funds and private credit.
AIMA’s mission is to ensure the alternative investment industry is positioned for success by contributing to capital formation, economic growth, and positive investor outcomes while operating within appropriate and proportionate regulatory frameworks. It achieves this through advocacy, policy and regulatory engagement, educational programs, sound practice guides, and by providing members with access to industry knowledge and expertise. AIMA organizes over 270 events annually, offers peer groups, and provides extensive educational resources and publications exclusively to members.
The association is headquartered in London and operates through 10 offices worldwide, enabling it to deliver local support and maintain strong global connections. AIMA also includes a private credit affiliate, the Alternative Credit Council (ACC), and has been actively involved in emerging areas such as digital assets and crypto hedge funds, reflecting the evolving interests of its members.
AIMA is governed by a council (board of directors) and is a nonprofit organization. It is committed to raising public and media awareness of the value of the alternative investment industry and developing skills and education standards, including co-founding the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designation, the first specialized educational standard for alternative investment specialists.
