Calling all planning superstars: Nominate a 2026 Rising Star now

2026 Rising Stars Banner
Complimentary Access Pill
Enjoy complimentary access to top ideas and insights — selected by our editors.
Want unlimited access to top ideas and insights? Subscribe Now

Attention, all outstanding early-career planners and advisors! 

Processing Content

Financial Planning is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Rising Stars awards, which recognize emerging professionals who have gone above and beyond to contribute to their clients, firm or the broader advisory community.

The annual program spotlights young professionals and career changers with fewer than 10 years in the industry who are making meaningful contributions through their achievements, leadership and service. 

The deadline to submit nominations is midnight on June 30, 2026. 

READ MORE: Meet Financial Planning's 10 Rising Stars of 2025

Who is eligible?

Rising Stars nominations are open to fee-only or fee-based planners and advisors with less than a decade of advisory experience in the wealth management industry (as of December 31, 2026).

You may nominate yourself as a Rising Star, or others, and there is no limit on the number of submissions.  

READ MORE: For Monique Street, an FP Rising Star, advocacy shapes every move

What we're looking for in a Rising Star

The nomination form collects basic personal and professional details, along with several short responses designed to surface the particulars behind what sets each candidate apart. 

We're especially interested in nominees who have demonstrated exceptional impact during their time in wealth management, whether through innovation, leadership, measurable business results or other contributions that have aided clients, colleagues or the broader industry. Strong nominations often include clear, specific examples of outcomes the nominee has achieved. We also value compelling personal narratives, including pivots into financial planning careers. (Firm assets under management provides context but is not a primary criterion.)

A three-person Financial Planning panel will review all submissions individually and select honorees after careful consideration and discussion. Winners will be notified in the summer; honorees will be announced in September.

To submit a Rising Stars nomination, please fill out this online form.


For reprint and licensing requests for this article, click here.
Rising Stars 2026 RIAs Financial Advisors Professional development
MORE FROM FINANCIAL PLANNING
Load More