What is the IGA
The International Grooms Association (IGA) is the professional association for grooms working internationally in FEI Disciplines.
We exist to support members throughout their career as a groom, providing support, advice and education to all working in the industry and to speak up on the issues that really matter to both the FEI and international show organisers.
Our members are at the heart of everything we do.
If you’re not a member already, don’t miss out! Come and join us today for just 15 euros for the year (converted into your local currency at check out)
History & background
The IGA was formed at the request of the FEI and was enabled by start-up grant funding.
On 26th April at the FEI Sports Forum, Lausanne, Switzerland, the President of the FEI Ingmar de Vos and Lucy Katan, Founding Director of IGA signed a ‘Memorandum of Understanding' on behalf of grooms working within the FEI.
This day marked the creation of the International Grooms Association (IGA), which now formally represents the grooms as an independent and not-for-profit professional association.
The IGA gives a voice to the grooms that will be recognised internationally and with the FEI.
It is the vision of the IGA to achieve representation with a collaborative voice, career recognition, greater status and a working environment for grooms working within the international competition community.
Who can join?
Membership of the IGA is for all grooms who are currently working, have worked, or would like to work for a rider(s)/driver(s) who compete at FEI international level competitions.
There is no age limit to join the IGA, it makes no difference if you are an employed groom, freelancer or student and members are welcome from every country in the world.
How does the IGA exist?
The IGA is a non-profit making social enterprise and its legal structure is as a Company Limited by Guarantee.
The IGA is not a union, it is a Professional Membership Association.
We are fortunate to have the support of a number of companies who have offered some financial backing as well as offering discounts to our members.
For a full list of these companies, visit Our Partners.
What are the principles of membership?
As a Professional's Association, the IGA aims for its members to be recognised as industry professionals.
However, we also believe that to be viewed as professionals, members must act as professionals and so the principle of membership are as follows:
- Be professional at all times and put the welfare of the horse as your priority.
- Value yourself and other members as professionals.
- Share information and experiences with other members.
- Help other members to learn and expand their knowledge base.
- Encourage memberships from people of all backgrounds.
- Help to promote the IGA to expand and reach everybody.
