CERTIFICATIONS

Become a CFES-Qualified Assessor Firm

The Coalition for Financial Ecosystem Standards (CFES) is accepting applications from qualified firms to become CFES-Qualified Assessor Firms. These firms are approved to conduct certifications of fintechs and nonbanks using CFES’s STARC Framework and Core Risk and Compliance Standards.

CFES-Qualified Assessors promote transparency, consistency, and accountability across the financial ecosystem. In order to maintain a level of quality and consistency in reports, the CFES-Qualified Assessor Program is selective and requires documented expertise, ethical standards, and training compliance.

  • Minimum Requirements to Apply

To be considered for CFES qualification, your firm must meet the following baseline criteria:

  • Professional Experience: At least 5 years of experience in financial services auditing, compliance, or risk management.
  • Fintech & Partnership Knowledge: Familiarity with nonbank fintech firms and experience evaluating partnerships with traditional banks.
  • Technology Fluency: Understanding of emerging technologies such as AI/ML, embedded finance, and digital lending platforms.
  • Staff Qualifications & Ethics:
    • Must comply with the CFES Code of Ethics
    • Key staff must complete required CFES training and continuing education

Firms that do not meet these criteria will not proceed to the next phase of the qualification process.

  • Application Process

Qualified firms must complete the following steps to be granted CFES-Qualified Assessor status:

  1. Submit Initial Application (see form below)
  2. Provide Supporting Documentation (resumes, insurance, disclosures, etc.)
  3. Pass Background Review and Screening
  4. Participate in a Capability Interview
  5. Complete CFES Training Requirements
  6. Execute the CFES Assessor Agreement

Only firms that complete all steps will be formally recognized as CFES-Qualified Assessor Firms.

  • Application & Program Fees

Becoming a CFES-Qualified Assessor involves two fees:

1

Application Fee: TBD

Due upon submission of application. 

2

Qualified Assessor Fee: TBD

If your firm passes all qualification steps, a final program fee will be invoiced as part of CFES-Qualified Assessor status issuance. The fee covers trainings, reviews, and other program requirements.

Please Note: The application fee covers the cost of evaluating applications and assessing them against designated criteria. The application fee is non-refundable.

  • Before You Begin

To streamline your application, please prepare the following materials in advance:

  • Organizational profile and key contacts
  • Proof of professional liability insurance
  • Team bios or resumes with credentials
  • Narrative description of compliance and fintech experience
  • Disclosures of any regulatory actions or conflicts of interest
  • Sample reports (e.g., BSA/AML audit, CMS audit) demonstrating capabilities
  • Start Your Application
Get Certified
  • Questions?

For questions about the CFES Assessor Program or application process, please contact us at assessorprogram@thecfes.com