The Lake Erie Marine Trades Association was formed in 1957 by a handful of boat dealers that sought to organize a large indoor boat show for the Cleveland market. It now includes approximately 100 members that are provided with legislative advocacy, educational support, and efforts to improve boating in Ohio. LEMTA staff members produce the Cleveland Boat Show & Fishing Expo at the I-X Center in Cleveland, Ohio. The 50,000 person event is hosted in the winter each year. Additional shows LEMTA produces in the spring, summer and fall include Catawba Island, Sandusky, Akron and the North Coast Harbor Boating & Fishing Fest at downtown Cleveland's lakefront. The association welcomes boat dealers, marina operators, watercraft manufacturers, clubs, financial entities, and other water-based organizations.