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www.indoorgolfalliance.org
The golf industry has a lot of organizations, from the PGA to the LPGA to the American Golf Industry Coalition to plenty of others.
And all that was well and good until a recent announcement from the Indoor Golf Alliance, a new group working to help connect and promote indoor/screen golf, took golf event owners by surprise – before they realized how long overdue it was. After all, according to IGA, there are an estimated 4,700 golf simulators in the U.S., broken down into 2,700 indoor facilities and 2,000 golf courses.
The Indoor Golf Alliance (IGA), which bills itself as a hub for connection, education, promotion, and innovation in indoor golf, has launched a new website which it notes is “a major step forward in uniting the fast-growing world of indoor golf.”
Using the slogan of “Uniting Indoor Golf for a Stronger Future,” the IGA is dedicated to connecting businesses, professionals and enthusiasts across the indoor golf ecosystem.
The IGA’s mission, according to recent news, is “to unite the world of indoor golf and technology. By providing professional development, networking opportunities, market insights, and advocacy, the Alliance empowers members to thrive in one of golf’s most dynamic and rapidly expanding markets.”
IGA intends to serve as the leading hub for connection, education, promotion and innovation in indoor golf. From manufacturers and suppliers to facility operators, leagues, instructors and entrepreneurs, the Alliance provides resources and support to foster growth, collaboration, and innovation worldwide.
Some industry members have already weighed in, including the prestigious PGA.
“As President of the PGA of America, I believe it is essential to bridge the gap between indoor/screen golf and green grass golf. By connecting these experiences, we can expand our reach and nurture the growth of this incredible game, ensuring its legacy for future generations,” said Don Rea Jr., PGA President.
The IGA is espousing key features, including the following:
- Membership Opportunities – Businesses gain a platform to connect with a growing industry, form partnerships, and access exclusive resources designed to drive visibility and growth.
- Education Hub – Webinars, newsletters, research, and expert articles keep members ahead of the curve on industry developments.
- Events & Networking – Conferences and industry events create opportunities to stay on top of emerging trends, connect with innovators, and shape the future of indoor golf.
- Industry News & Insights – The latest updates on technology innovations (simulators, launch monitors, VR, AI), business trends, market growth, and event highlights.
The IGA brings together manufacturers and suppliers, simulation and facility operators, leagues and instructors, golf course owners and hospitality businesses, as well as entrepreneurs entering the indoor golf industry.
The organization’s website, www.indoorgolfalliance.org, carries full information.
Phil Immordino, IGA Manager, sat down with SDM to talk about the fledgling group.
Sports Destination Management: About how many indoor golf facilities are there in the USA?
Phil Immordino: If you include all commercial locations with an indoor simulator, we estimate 2500 and growing everyday
SDM: Do you think this gives the industry more legitimacy?
Immordino: The industry is growing like crazy, with commercial locations, bars and restaurants, golf courses and individual use; we believe that the industry is already legitimate. Our goal is to bring into together as a community, assist in education, networking and exposure.
SDM: Are you seeing indoor growth as a steppingstone for beginners who want to try the grass game?
Immordino: There is clearly a correlation of golfers staring indoors and then moving to outdoors; just as important, golfers can get better indoors for their outdoor game
SDM: Any idea of the economic impact of indoor golf annually?
Immordino: Great question; we will do a survey but in equipment alone, the revenue last year was $682 million. If you include memberships, lessons, food and beverage and sales of merchandise, it is estimated at over $1 billion and growing.
SDM: Are you aware of any specific tournaments or competitive events that are held in indoor golf facilities?
Immordino: Yes, check out the leagues mentioned at this link.
Note: Questions about IGA can be addressed to phili@indoorgolfalliance.org.
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