PHILADELPHIA, PA — The Project Management Institute (PMI) is applauding a recent expansion of 529 education savings plans that now allows the funds to be used for career-focused certifications, including PMI’s own globally recognized project management credentials. The change, which took effect on July 4, is seen as a significant step in making professional upskilling more accessible.
As a member of the Professional Certification Coalition, PMI supported the policy shift, which broadens the use of tax-advantaged education savings beyond traditional college costs. The organization argues that the move will help meet the growing demand for project management professionals worldwide.
According to PMI’s Global Project Management Talent Gap report, the global economy will require as many as 30 million new project professionals by 2035, with 5 million of those needed in North America. By making certifications eligible for 529 funding, individuals now have another pathway to earn project management credentials, while employers benefit from a larger pool of job-ready professionals.
“This law sends a powerful message: upskilling and reskilling matter more than ever,” said Pierre Le Manh, PMP, president and CEO of PMI. “We joined the Professional Certification Coalition to advocate for this shift because it’s a sign of education transformation—one that values continuous learning and professional development, not just college degrees. Whether you’re a student looking to stand out, or a professional seeking relevance in the AI age, the path to opportunity through project management just became broader, faster, and more inclusive.”
PMI’s Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, accredited by the American National Standards Institute, already qualifies for U.S. military Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) funding and reimbursement through the Department of Veterans Affairs. Other PMI credentials, such as the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), carry similar recognition. The 529 expansion adds yet another option, reinforcing the role of certifications as both standalone qualifications and valuable complements to traditional higher education.
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