In 1999, under the guidance of The Center for International Securities and Derivatives Markets (CISDM) and the Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA), committed industry leaders undertook the task of creating a professional designation exclusively for alternative investment specialists.  The result of their efforts is the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst designation, or CAIA - the AI industry's first and only specialized educational standard.

The CAIA Association was established with the belief that a strong foundation of knowledge specific to alternative investments is essential for all AI professionals. Other programs do not address the unique attributes associated with alternative assets, but focus primarily on traditional investments.

Given the area's explosive inflow of investable capital, it is now more imperative than ever that AI participants set themselves apart from the broader investment industry. Earning the CAIA designation demonstrates an individual's commitment to the profession and comprehension of its unique fundamentals.

The CAIA Association and the Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Program are in no way affiliated with, sponsored by, or related to the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation, administered by the CFA Institute.