FPA and academia join hands for grants
The Financial Planning Association (FPA) has partnered with academics to launch its first round of financial planning research grants for university academics.
The FPA and the Financial Planning Education Council (FPEC) have launched the grants to support higher education providers who are offering degrees that allow admittance to the Certified Financial Planner certification program.
Fifteen providers have approved degree qualifications currently and others are in the process of accreditation.
FPA CEO Mark Rantall said consultations with senior academics showed that academic research is essential for financial planning education.
"Financial support from the profession is the missing piece in the equation. Consequently, we have initiated the seed funding for this inaugural round of research grants and invite our professional partners to join us in this important initiative."
The first round of grants will be awarded in March next year after a two-stage application process. Projects can receive up to $5000 depending on needs and the funding available.
Initial expressions of interest will be accepted from November until 8 December this year.
FPEC Chair Associate Professor Mark Brimble said the grants signal a deepening relationship between industry and academia.
"There are significant benefits for all parties to engage in a program of rigorous, independent and timely research to inform practice policy development," he said.
AUTHOR
Malavika Santhebennur
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