Membership
A curated community of practitioners driving global development impact
Membership & Member Value
WDC operates as the World Free Zone Organization's India Chapter, delivering exceptional value to zone operators, developers, governments, and practitioners across India's 280+ SEZ ecosystem.
Engagement + Member Flywheel
Consulting engagements generate case studies, thought leadership, and referrals that feed membership growth. Members participate in events and certifications, creating lasting value.
World FZO Network Access
Members gain access to the global World FZO network, international best practices, cross-border collaboration opportunities, and certification programs.
Research & Training
Research products inform consultants' work, increasing engagement quality and conversion. Training programs build zone management capabilities across India.
Events & Certifications
India Free Zones Summit (400-500 attendees), regional forums across states, zone certification programs, and exclusive networking opportunities.
Three Categories of Membership
Join a growing community of zone operators, developers, and practitioners across India's SEZ ecosystem
Institutional Members (Voting)
30-50 members (Y1 target)
SEZ developers, zone operators, state industrial development corporations, and large enterprises with direct stake in India's zone ecosystem. Full voting rights and participation in governance.
Member Profile
- SEZ/Free Zone developers and operators
- State Industrial Development Corporations
- Large infrastructure developers
- Anchor tenants and major zone investors
Typical Profiles
- Former heads of state or cabinet ministers
- CEOs and chairs of major corporations
- Heads of multilateral institutions
- Nobel laureates and thought leaders
Engagement Expectations
- Strategic advisory on flagship initiatives
- Participation in high-level convenings
- Network activation for key engagements
- Thought leadership contributions
Strategic Members
100-120 members globally
Senior practitioners and leaders with deep expertise and significant networks. Strategic Members form the backbone of WDC's advisory capacity and are the primary pool for Problem-Solving Pods.
Selection Criteria
- Recognized expertise in their sector
- 15+ years of relevant experience
- Demonstrated execution track record
- Strong professional networks
Typical Profiles
- Current and former C-suite executives
- Senior government officials
- Partners at leading advisory firms
- Senior multilateral professionals
Engagement Expectations
- Participation in Problem-Solving Pods
- Content and research contributions
- Training program faculty
- Mentorship of Professional Members
Professional Members
200-250 members globally
Accomplished professionals on an upward trajectory, bringing specialized skills and fresh perspectives. Professional Members represent the next generation of development leaders.
Selection Criteria
- Specialized expertise in WDC sectors
- 8+ years of relevant experience
- Demonstrated growth trajectory
- Active learning orientation
Typical Profiles
- Directors and senior managers
- Mid-career government officials
- Principals at advisory firms
- Rising entrepreneurs and innovators
Engagement Expectations
- Pod support roles and analysis
- Research and content development
- Event participation and organization
- Community building activities
What Members Receive
Value that flows from being part of an elite global community
Global Network Access
Connect with a curated community of 350+ development leaders across sectors, geographies, and institutions. Access that cannot be purchased.
Engagement Opportunities
Participate in high-impact Problem-Solving Pods, advisory mandates, and strategic engagements with leading institutions globally.
Exclusive Convenings
Invitations to National Conclaves, Global Summits, Leadership Salons, and intimate gatherings bringing together remarkable people.
Knowledge Resources
Access to WDC research, sector analyses, implementation playbooks, and proprietary insights before public release.
Profile & Visibility
Recognition as part of an elite global institution. Speaking opportunities, publication platforms, and enhanced professional visibility.
Training Access
Preferential access to WDC Executive Bootcamps, Masterclasses, and Fellowship programs—as participants, faculty, or both.
Becoming a Member
A rigorous selection process ensuring community quality
Nomination
Candidates are nominated by existing WDC members or identified through WDC's network mapping. Self-nominations are also considered for exceptional candidates.
Evaluation
The Membership Committee evaluates candidates against tier-specific criteria, considering expertise, track record, network, and potential contribution to WDC.
Interview
Shortlisted candidates engage in conversations with WDC leadership to explore mutual fit, discuss engagement expectations, and answer questions.
Invitation
Successful candidates receive formal invitations specifying their membership tier. Invitations must be accepted within 30 days.
Onboarding
New members participate in an orientation program introducing them to WDC's work, community, and engagement opportunities.
Interested in Membership?
While membership is invitation-only, we welcome expressions of interest from qualified candidates who believe they can contribute to WDC's mission.
Note: Expressions of interest do not guarantee consideration. We review submissions quarterly.