The Money Management Institute (MMI) and its Gateway Foundation are excited to announce a new partnership with the Sapere Aude Consortium (Sapere) to expand access and opportunities for first-generation and lower-income college students pursuing careers in investment and wealth management.
Since 2020, Sapere has supported more than 160 primarily first-generation students through industry education, research, writing & presentation skills training, internship opportunities, alumni support, and extensive networks. It’s “First in Finance” internship program has seen over 85% of its participants progress to rising-senior internships or full-time analyst roles at leading financial services firms. The collaboration aligns with MMI’s commitment to supporting the industry’s early-career talent through genuine connections and the open exchange of ideas.
MMI and Sapere will partner on initiatives designed to expand access to industry opportunities and professional development, including:
- Sponsoring four students to participate in SAC’s First in Finance Program with the direct support of the Gateway Foundation
- Providing one Sapere alumni with registration to attend the MMI Leadership Pathway Intensive
- Admitting five Sapere alumni to the 2026 MMI Annual Conference this fall to further build connections and industry exposure
“This partnership advances our belief that expanding opportunity strengthens both our industry and the next generation of leaders,” said Craig Pfeiffer, MMI President & CEO. “Sapere Aude’s work is impressive and impactful, and together we can help ensure first-generation students and early-career professionals have the access, support, and networks they need to thrive.”
MMI and Sapere encourage industry professionals to get involved by volunteering to be part of the Sapere Network, serving as an accessible resource for students and alumni seeking guidance, perspective, or career insight. Often, a single conversation can make a meaningful impact for a first-generation professional navigating the industry.
“The partnership with industry leader like MMI and their Gateway Foundation, represents a major step forward in building a more inclusive and dynamic pipeline for the investment and wealth management profession,” said Joseph Craven, one of Sapere’s Founders. “We look forward to working with MMI to help first-generation students not only enter the industry but also become the leaders who shape its future.”
About the Money Management Institute (MMI)
Established in 1997, the Money Management Institute (MMI) is the industry association for financial services firms, serving as the leading catalyst and resource for the advancement of investment advice. MMI advances the wealth and asset management industries through connections, knowledge, and professional growth. We are committed to fostering collaboration, supporting diversity of thought, sharing expertise, and driving innovation. By championing best practices and encouraging open dialogue in investment advice, we empower firms and professionals to better serve clients and investors in an ever-evolving world. We offer our members premier professional development programs, specialized curriculums, invaluable thought leadership, and dynamic peer-to-peer networks.
Our membership spans wealth managers, asset managers, and solutions providers of all sizes, with professionals representing every functional area of the financial services ecosystem. Together, we are shaping the future of investment advice. Follow MMI on LinkedIn.
About the Sapere Aude Consortium:
Founded in 2020, the Sapere Aude Consortium (Sapere) –named for the Latin phrase meaning “Dare to Know”- is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to careers in investment and wealth management for first-generation college students. Through its flagship First in Finance Program, Sapere provides students with research experience, industry education, professional development, internships, and meaningful connections with leaders across the financial services industry.
Since its founding, Sapere has supported more than 160 Fellows from colleges and universities across the country, with over 80% progressing to rising-senior internships or full-time analyst positions at leading investment and wealth management firms. Through its growing community of students, alumni, employers, and industry volunteers, Sapere Aude is building a lifelong network of first-generation professionals committed to strengthening the future of the investment and wealth management profession. Follow Sapere Aude and its First in Finance Program on LinkedIn.
Media Contact:
Paul Zettl
Chief Marketing Officer
Money Management Institute
646.868.8528 | pzettl@mminst.org
