International Association of ESD Professionals

The International Association of ESD Professionals provides a collaborative, unaffiliated industry support space in which Empowerment Self Defense certificate programs and ESD Professionals can collaborate in the growth of the industry. The Association provides Industry and Membership support, unaffiliated continuing education, and a Credentialing Program designed to increase public awareness and trust in Empowerment Self Defense as a key to global violence prevention. We aim to increase public safety and trust in the Self Defense Industry by setting Empowerment Self Defense-based standards, continuing education, certification, practices, and industry collaboration. In this way, members of the public seeking Self Defense training can be confident in selecting certified, capable instructors that will provide effective, trauma-informed, safety education; individuals seeking to become Self Defense Instructors can find accredited certificate training programs; and organizations in need of Empowerment Self Defense services and instruction can be assured that they are hiring a trained professional. We are a 501(c)(6) nonprofit, mutual benefit organization incorporated in Virginia. Unlike a 501(c)(3) organization, the Association does not engage in fundraising and instead must generate revenue. Membership dues may be tax deductible as business expenses and membership does not require participation in the credentialing program.