It was incorporated to provide an opportunity for smaller Christian college members to compete on an equal level of competition with schools of like size.

The ACCA was established in 1983 as the "National Bible College Athletic Association" (NBCAA) to provide a national organization to hold championships, name All-Americans, scholar athletes and promote member colleges.

The name was changed to the Association of Christian College Athletics (ACCA) in June 2004.

A commissioner was hired and a plan for membership growth was established.

The aim of the ACCA is to promote the education and development of students through intercollegiate athletic participation.