The Project Management Institute (PMI) has praised a recent expansion of 529 savings plans in the United States, which now allows them to be used for career upskilling certifications. The change, which came into effect on 4th July, means that individuals can use these tax-advantaged accounts to fund globally recognised qualifications like the Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification.
As a member of the Professional Certification Coalition (PCC), PMI has supported the expansion, arguing that it creates more accessible pathways to professional success and helps to build a stronger workforce. According to the PMI Global Project Management Talent Gap report, there will be a need for up to 30 million new project professionals by 2035, with 5 million of those in North America alone. The expansion of 529 plans is seen as a key way to help close this gap.
Pierre Le Manh, PMP, President & CEO of PMI, said: “This law sends a powerful message: upskilling and reskilling matter more than ever. 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.”
The PMP® certification is already accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and qualifies for various US military and veterans’ funding programmes. The new 529 plan eligibility adds another important option for Americans, reinforcing the value of professional certifications as both standalone qualifications and as enhancements to traditional academic experience.
For employers, this shift supports skills-based hiring, making it easier to find candidates with proven expertise. Certified project professionals are seen as vital for helping organisations to innovate, meet compliance needs, and lead strategic change. As the business world navigates increasing complexity and digital transformation, certifications like the PMP® and Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® will become even more valuable. The removal of a key financial barrier is expected to empower more aspiring leaders to access the training and validation they need to succeed, ultimately strengthening teams and accelerating organisational progress.
