For FP Canada™, this year marks three decades of advancing professional financial planning. This milestone is occurring at a time when new challenges—such as rapid technological innovation, demographic shifts, and growing demand for holistic advice—are necessitating significant change across the profession.
The next chapter isn’t just about keeping pace with that change. It’s about leveraging decades of experience to ensure financial planning is inclusive, future-ready, and deeply relevant to Canadians’ lives.
By reflecting on our history and learning from developments that have made the profession what it is today, we can chart a bold course toward financial well-being for all.
Building on Strong Foundations
Thirty years ago, the Financial Planning Standards Council of Canada, which would later become known as FP Canada, was formed. Since then, our non-profit organization has led the evolution of financial planning by establishing rigorous standards, elevating practice, and advocating for the public interest.
Some of the most significant developments for our organization have played a role in fundamentally shaping the profession.
Early on, FP Canada was licensed to offer Certified Financial Planner® certification, which is considered the gold standard for the profession. Today, there are over 17,500 CFP® professionals across the country, a testament to the ongoing professionalization of the field.
Another pivotal moment was marked by the creation of two key FP Canada divisions. The first is the FP Canada Standards Council™, which is responsible for setting and enforcing rigorous professional and ethical standards. The second, the FP Canada Institute™, is dedicated to advancing financial planning education and practice support through competency-based learning.
To further expand access to financial planning, we launched Qualified Associate Financial Planner® certification in 2020. Designed to fill a growing need, QAFP certification equips professionals to help Canadians still in the process of building their wealth.
The goal of expanding financial planning access was also furthered with the release of IMAGINE 2030—our vision for a future where all Canadians have achieved financial well-being—and the five-year strategic plan that supports it. That vision is at the heart of everything we do, including the work we’ve done alongside the Institute of Financial Planning to help launch the Canadian Foundation for Financial Planning.
The Foundation’s mission is to equip Canadians—especially those at risk of financial vulnerability—with the knowledge to create their own paths to financial resilience. Its focus is culturally relevant education, and initiatives that allow financial planners to give back to their communities.
These milestones, and many others, reflect a clear trajectory. Collectively, professional financial planners, industry firms, and organizations like FP Canada have built a strong foundation for a future-ready profession. We must continue to build on that momentum by understanding the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Redefining the Future: Preparing for the Evolution of Financial Planning
In the face of rapid change, members of the financial planning profession must be proactive. By leveraging recent progress, embracing innovation, and committing to continuous learning, planners can position themselves for long-term success.
The following tips offer practical ways to capitalize on current trends and prepare for the future:
Focus on Maintaining Trust – Trust remains a cornerstone of financial planning. As client expectations evolve, planners who want to inspire confidence must go beyond maintaining technical expertise. They must be steadfastly committed to transparency, ethical rigour, and continued relevance in a rapidly changing landscape. Trust is earned through every interaction—listening, adapting, and delivering truly holistic advice is key.
Leverage Technology and Human Insight – Artificial intelligence and fintech aren’t replacing financial planners. While digital tools can streamline processes and data analytics can enhance precision, they can’t replicate empathy or professional judgment. The future belongs to planners who combine technical acumen with emotional intelligence—professionals who interpret data while understanding the human story behind it.
Treat Education as a Strategic Imperative – It’s hard to overstate the value of high-quality pre-certification and continuing education, such as that which is offered through the FP Canada Institute. It provides a seamless journey from foundational learning to lifelong professional development. That’s critical, because aspiring planners need to be practice-ready—and practicing planners must have the skills to adapt to evolving client needs, shifting regulations, and advancing technology.
Embrace Diversity and Inclusion – Diversity isn’t just a value—it’s a strategic advantage that fosters innovation, cultural relevance, and greater participation in financial services across communities. Inclusive certification pathways and initiatives aimed at growing diversity (such as the FP Canada Diversity in Action Scholarship) can help to attract talent from underrepresented communities. Planners who recognize the value of diverse perspectives will be better equipped to serve their clients with purpose and sensitivity.
Recognize the Value of Collaboration—and Its Social Impact – Collaboration across borders (through the Financial Planning Standards Board, for example) is shaping best practices and credential recognition globally. At home, volunteer initiatives that allow planners to collaborate with philanthropic organizations—such as the Canadian Foundation for Financial Planning—are making a difference for underserved Canadians. These efforts underscore a shared mission: to make financial wellness more accessible and impactful, locally and abroad.
What’s Next: Turning Momentum into Meaningful Change
FP Canada’s first 30 years have helped define the financial planning profession—and provided countless lessons to carry into its next chapter.
We must embrace technology without losing the human touch, commit to lifelong learning, and make diversity and inclusion more than aspirations. A commitment to collaboration at both the global and local levels will also play a significant role in helping to grow financial wellness for all.
Simply put, the future of financial planning is about more than adapting to change and navigating complexity. By learning from the past and strategically prioritizing for the future, we can turn progress into purpose—and continue to build a profession that empowers every Canadian.
