Founded in 1999, the American Press Association (APA) is a private organization dedicated to supporting independent, freelance, and student media professionals. The company's primary business is the issuance of press passes, credentials, and vehicle press placards, which are intended to help its members gain access to various events. The APA's mission is to provide resources and a form of validation for media creators who are not affiliated with major news corporations, enabling them to pursue their work more effectively.