Update on ADMA and the ACS Innovation Labs

The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has made a decision on the future of the Association for Data-Driven Marketing and Advertising (ADMA) and the ACS Innovation Labs, which were acquired by ACS in 2019 and 2018 respectively.

ACS will begin a considered wind-down process for the ACS Innovation Labs including River City Labs, Ocean City Labs, and Something Tech. Labs memberships, except those connected to Harbour City Labs, will cease. Harbour City Labs will continue playing an active role in the startup community, supporting founders through mentoring programs and practical support.  

As part of the broader transition, a decision to wind down ADMA has been made. ACS is in discussions regarding a proposed sale of ADMA to the Australian Association of National Advertisers (AANA)to form the Marketing Association of Australia. We are hopeful this will come to fruition and will continue to support these discussions.

If this proceeds, the intention is for ADMA members to transition to the Marketing Association of Australia, where they would continue to receive support focused on the marketing community, its evolving needs and future growth. Further updates will be provided regularly over the next week or two as more information comes to light.  

ADMA and the Labs have played an important role in ACS’s history. Since acquiring ADMA in 2019 and River City Labs Group in 2018, ACS has invested significantly in both organisations and their communities.

ADMA has supported more than 600 corporate members, convening leading marketing voices, and contributing to the profession through education, accreditation and advocacy.  

The Labs has been a nationally recognised innovation ecosystem operating for over fourteen years, supporting more than 1,200 alumni, connecting 68 vetted mentors with founders, delivering Government-supported programs, and building one of the most vibrant startup communities in the country.  

For ACS, this decision supports our focus on strengthening professional membership, delivering greater member value, and directing our time, resources and energy to where we can have the greatest impact for members, the tech community, and Australia’s national tech pipeline.