Collector Club
The Certified Trading Card Association, Inc. (CTCA) has officially launched in the United States, marking a major development for the trading card industry.
Created to unite and elevate all segments of the hobby, from sports cards and gaming cards to entertainment collectibles, the CTCA is the first dedicated trade association built by industry professionals, for industry professionals.
While based in the US, its mission to improve standards, support businesses, and promote community across the hobby is one that resonates globally. Whilst this isn’t an initiative that will extend to the UK and Europe, we’re pleased to see initiatives that champion transparency, collaboration, and growth within the trading card space.
A unified voice for the trading card industry in the US
Founded by Nick Jarman, the CTCA was established to address the absence of a unified organisation representing collectors, dealers, manufacturers, graders, and related businesses.
“For years, the industry has lacked a central organisation to represent collectors, dealers, manufacturers, graders, and related businesses,” said Jarman. “CTCA fills that gap, bringing together the entire community to set standards, share resources, and drive growth.”
With the trading card market continuing to expand, the CTCA’s goal is to provide a platform for collaboration and to set clear standards that enhance legitimacy, quality, and professionalism throughout the industry.
What CTCA members can expect from membership
CTCA members will gain access to a range of benefits, including:
- Advocacy and representation at both national and local levels.
- Exclusive access to industry data, reports, and best practices.
- Educational resources and tailored training opportunities.
- Networking with peers and industry leaders.
- A dedicated platform for innovation and problem-solving.
The association’s focus is on uniting all corners of the trading card world, sports, gaming, and entertainment, under a single professional body that encourages communication and shared progress.
Membership and upcoming live Q&A
The CTCA is now accepting founding members. Collectors, dealers, manufacturers, graders, and affiliated businesses are encouraged to visit www.thectca.org to learn more and sign up.
Those who register before the end of 2025 will receive 50% off their 2026 membership cost.
To mark the launch, Founder and CEO Nick Jarman will host a live Q&A on Whatnot on 15th October at 7pm CST, giving collectors and professionals a chance to learn more about the organisation and its plans for the hobby. You can tune in via thectca.org/live.
About the Certified Trading Card Association
The Certified Trading Card Association, Inc. is the first trade association dedicated to supporting, connecting, and advocating for all sectors of the trading card industry. Its mission is to raise standards, provide value to members, and grow the hobby for everyone involved.
For more information, press inquiries, or membership details, you can visit www.thectca.org or email connect@thectca.org.
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