The Nine Lives Associates (NLA) is a special program created and provided by the Executive Protection Institute. The purpose of the NLA is to provide a PRIVATE NETWORK of inducted graduates of the Providing Executive Protection Program provided by EPI, as well as to advance the art, science and actual process of providing personal protection.

The common understanding, skills and fellowship developed under conditions of stressful realism has been translated into a permanent and exclusive professional association. Members recognize each other worldwide by a distinctive Black Cat lapel pin, symbolizing the groups strive for a special kind of professional excellence.

NLA Members must be inducted into the NLA and are not eligible unless they have attended one of the Providing Executive Protection Programs that have been offered since 1978.