A version of this article was originally published in the spring 2025 issue of FP Standard Magazine. You can download it or read the full issue online.
This year marks FP Canada’s 30th anniversary. It’s the ideal time to reaffirm our commitment to advancing the financial planning profession—and the financial well-being of all Canadians. To do so, we must embrace a forward-looking perspective while learning from the past and understanding where we are today.
FP Canada’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan draws on our existing strengths, leverages current opportunities, and (most importantly) sets out our key priorities for the next five years. It represents a bold step toward the goals of IMAGINE 2030, our vision for a future where all Canadians have the financial confidence and well-being they need, along with access to professional financial planning.
In our 30th year, I’ve been thinking not only about our Strategic Plan, but the ongoing work that’s foundational to our success.
Building on Strong Foundations
Professional and ethical standards are cornerstones of financial planning practice. The FP Canada Standards Council™ sets, maintains, and enforces these standards. By ensuring the Standards of Professional Responsibility are in line with evolving regulations, client expectations, and global requirements, they protect the public and the integrity of the profession.
Of course, it’s not just rigorous standards that ensure CFP® professionals and QAFP® professionals are equipped to serve their clients. Education is critical, and it doesn’t end at certification. Continuing education (CE) supports planners in their ongoing professional development
With this in mind, we at FP Canada are expanding on our CE offerings. The FP Canada Institute™ has begun to roll out new and highly relevant courses to help planners and financial services professionals keep their knowledge current. We’ve also recently made updates to our CE requirements to enhance quality and consistency.
Moving forward, one area of focus for FP Canada will continue to be improving access to financial planning. As a founding member of the Canadian Foundation for Financial Planning, we were pleased to play an important role in the independent charity’s recent launch. From pro-bono financial planning programs to those focused on culturally relevant financial education, the work of the Foundation is truly invaluable.
I’m incredibly proud of what this organization achieves on an ongoing basis, and has achieved throughout the last 30 years. I’m confident in our ability to meet the ambitious goals we’ve set for our future—and I can’t wait to see the difference we make for Canadians in the years ahead.
