In partnership with Future Standard and Partners Group, the course delivers
practical insights into putting alternatives to work.
AMHERST, MA, (January 13, 2026) - As alternative investments become more accessible, the most overlooked skill in finance—implementation—is now essential to client outcomes. Today, CAIA Association announced the launch of its newest CAIA.nxt™ microcredential, Portfolio Implementation, developed with support from Future Standard and Partners Group. The course delivers a real-world perspective on how alternatives are being integrated into portfolios today, and what that means for client-facing professionals on the front lines of investment decision making.
This latest offering within the CAIA.nxt™ course library is designed for early- to mid-career professionals working across asset and wealth management. The Portfolio Implementation Microcredential is a nine-hour, online, self-paced program designed to guide participants through the practical dimensions of portfolio construction including integration of existing client assets, investment vehicles, due diligence, and applications for managing private market allocation.
“In a fragmented and fast-moving capital markets landscape, the biggest risk isn’t choosing the wrong fund; it’s failing to connect the dots between client goals, product design, and implementation reality,” said Steven Novakovic, CAIA, CFA, Managing Director, Educational Programs at CAIA Association. “Portfolio implementation has quietly become a strategic skill, and this program brings that discipline into full view.”
Supported by Partners Group, one of the largest firms in the global private markets industry, and longtime CAIA collaborator Future Standard, a global alternative asset manager, the Portfolio Implementation Microcredential delivers an applied, cross-disciplinary learning experience grounded in CAIA’s commitment to preparing professionals to navigate complexity and allocate with intention.
“Today’s launch is another exciting step in our ongoing partnership with CAIA,” said Kirsten Pickens, Managing Director and Co-Head of U.S. Distribution at Future Standard. “As the landscape of portfolio construction continues to evolve, this microcredential offers timely, actionable education for advisors seeking to build more resilient and diversified portfolios. I’m looking forward to the conversations this will spark across both asset and wealth management as we rethink implementation in a more complex market environment.”
Participants will earn a certificate of completion and a verifiable digital badge and can claim 9 hours of CE credit toward CFP and IWI designations, and 8 hours toward CIRO. The Portfolio Implementation Microcredential is part of the growing CAIA.nxt™ ecosystem, which supports future-ready professionals through focused, flexible education built for real-world impact. Unlike theoretical overviews, the CAIA.nxt™ series addresses high-context areas of practice where updated knowledge can immediately move the needle for clients.
“As private markets continue to represent a growing portion of investor portfolios, it's critical that advisors have the knowledge and tools they need to effectively navigate this asset class and implement sound strategies," said Rob Collins, Partner, Client Solutions, Partners Group. “We're pleased to partner with CAIA to bring this educational program to life, making private markets investing more accessible and actionable for investment professionals.”
The CAIA Association’s educational philosophy is grounded in global relevance, ethical stewardship, and cross-functional fluency. In a world where capital crosses asset classes and borders faster than ever, the ability to implement with intention is more than a technical skill—it’s a competitive edge.
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About CAIA Association
CAIA Association is a global network of forward-thinking investment professionals, redefining the future of capital allocation in a world where traditional and alternatives converge. United by a commitment to improving investment outcomes, we lead with authority, educate to inspire, and connect people who turn insight into action. To learn more about the CAIA Association and how to become part of the most energized professional network shaping the future of investing, please visit us at https://caia.org/.
About Future Standard
Future Standard is a global alternative asset manager serving institutional and private wealth clients, investing across private equity, credit and real estate. With a 30+ year track record of value creation and over $86 billion in assets under management, we back the business owners and financial sponsors that drive growth and innovation across the middle market, transforming untapped potential into durable value.
About Partners Group
Partners Group is one of the largest firms in the global private markets industry, with around 2,000 professionals and over USD 174 billion in assets under management, inclusive of all Partners Group affiliates. The firm has investment programs and custom mandates spanning private equity, private credit, infrastructure, real estate, and royalties. With its heritage in Switzerland and its primary presence in the Americas in Colorado, Partners Group is built differently from the rest of the industry. The firm leverages its differentiated culture and its operationally oriented approach to identify potentially attractive investment themes and to build businesses and assets into market leaders. For more information, please visit www.partnersgroup.com or follow us on LinkedIn.
Media Contacts for CAIA:
Stephen Fishleigh - sfishleigh@gregoryagency.com
Philip Nunes - Pnunes@gregoryagency.com
