About WANADA

Headquartered in Washington, D.C. – one of the nation’s most significant new car markets, the Washington Area New Automobile Dealers Association (WANADA) represents 275 corporate members, including franchised new-car and truck dealers, as well as Kindred-line businesses that support dealership operations. Since 1917, WANADA has led the region’s retail automotive industry through advocacy, workforce development, public engagement, and member service. The association operates a family of entities that serve its mission, including the Automobile Dealer Education Institute (ADEI), WANADA Community Support Foundation, WANADA Insurance Services, and The Washington, D.C. Auto Show.

Today, WANADA provides clarity and momentum in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape. It does so through signature events such as Public Policy Day, at The Washington, D.C. Auto Show, and through a range of education, training, and benefit programs that empowers dealers to adapt, grow, and lead with confidence.

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Mission

WANADA’s mission is to advance the retail new automobile industry in the Washington D.C. region while representing its members in public policy and serving as a leading voice for the industry.

How It Started

WANADA traces its roots to 1917, when it was established in Washington, D.C. as the Washington Automotive Trade Association. The organization evolved over the decades, becoming the Automotive Trade Association National Capital Area (ATANCA) in 1954 before adopting its current name in 1996 – the Washington Area New Automobile Dealers Association (WANADA).

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Where We Are Now

As WANADA’s highest-profile initiative, The Washington, D.C. Auto Show is a premier industry showcase and globally recognized “Public Policy Show”, connecting automakers, policymakers, and consumers to highlight innovation and advance WANADA’s mission forward for the industry.

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WANADA’s commitment to workforce development comes to life through the Automobile Dealer Education Institute (ADEI), where aspiring auto technicians receive hands-on training in collaboration with dealerships and schools, helping to close the skills gap and support the region’s automotive workforce.

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For over 75 years, WANADA Insurance Services has provided comprehensive employee benefits to dealerships and kindred members in Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. Our personalized approach lets clients focus on their business while we manage health dental, life, disability, COBRA, and more.

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