Understanding the CKA® designation for advisors

In my work with advisors across the country, I often hear a common theme: clients are asking deeper questions about purpose, values, and how money fits into their larger story. For some, that naturally leads into conversations about faith and finances. That’s where the Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®) designation comes in. While not every advisor will pursue it, understanding what it represents can help you better navigate faith-based investing conversations and serve clients who want to align their financial life with their beliefs.

What is the CKA® designation?

The Certified Kingdom Advisor® (CKA®) designation is awarded through Kingdom Advisors, a professional organization dedicated to equipping financial professionals with training in biblical financial wisdom.

Advisors who hold this credential have studied how biblical principles apply to areas like financial planning, investments, charitable giving, and stewardship. For clients who want to integrate their faith into financial decision-making, the CKA® serves as a signal that an advisor is equipped to guide those conversations.

What’s required to obtain it?

The process of earning the CKA® designation is designed to combine both technical and spiritual qualifications. The main requirements include:

• Professional background: At least 10 years of industry experience or possession of a recognized credential such as CFP®, ChFC®, CPA, CPA/PFS, EA, CFA, CIMA®, AAMS, CLU®, JD.
• Coursework: Completion of Kingdom Advisors’ training program, which covers biblical principles of money management and client application.
• Examination: A proctored exam that tests both financial knowledge and biblical application.
• Submit the Application: Once requirements are met, advisors complete the application process, which includes three references (one pastoral, two client/professional), payment of the application fee, and confirmation of professional qualifications.
• Ongoing education: Continuing education requirements to ensure advisors stay current on both financial best practices and biblically wise counsel.

These standards ensure that the designation is built on competence, character, and a clear faith foundation.

Why is it important for advisors?

Even if you don’t hold the CKA® designation yourself, knowing what it represents is valuable in understanding the landscape of faith-based investing.

• Client alignment: Many clients want their financial plans to reflect their faith. Advisors familiar with the CKA® know how to recognize and respect that desire.
• Industry recognition: The designation reflects a commitment to integrating biblical perspective with professional practice, which may set advisors apart.
• Conversation starter: Whether you pursue the credential or not, awareness of the CKA® can help you connect with colleagues or clients who value it.

In short, the CKA® designation highlights a growing niche within financial services—one where professional excellence and faith-based principles come together.

Closing thought

The Certified Kingdom Advisor® designation is not for everyone, but for advisors serving faith-driven clients, it’s an important credential to understand. At minimum, being aware of what it entails can help you better engage with clients who are seeking to align their financial lives with their faith.