The kinds of organization, and why the taxonomy matters

Lists of "executive networks" usually put YPO, Soho House, the Angel Capital Association and a US$25,000 mastermind in the same column. They are not the same product, and the taxonomy on this site exists to say how they differ.

Peer advisory organizations sell a confidential facilitated group that meets on a fixed cadence: YPO, EO, Vistage, TIGER 21, TAB, C12, Hampton. Networking organizations sell introductions, events and access without a fixed forum: many publisher councils, city executive clubs and executive networks. Investment communities exist to source and fund deals or to discuss members' portfolios: angel groups, investor networks. Private clubs sell premises — the building, the dining room, the company. Professional associations are open to anyone in a role and priced accordingly. Paid masterminds are programmes led by a named convener for a fee. Family-office networks serve principals and the executives of their offices. Invitation-only communities publish criteria that describe members without admitting anyone. Leadership networks are fellowships and councils selected for influence. Philanthropic networks use a giving commitment as the entry test.

Each organization carries exactly one of these as its primary type, plus categories describing who it is for and flags for how it is organised — chapter-based, forum-based, event-focused, virtual, cohort-based, clubhouse premises. The comparison engine, the finder and the qualification tool all read these fields, which is why a search for "CEO peer groups" returns forums and not clubs.