Empowering the world through Coaching

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is a hub for all things related to coaching: coach community, coach training, coach credentialing and standards, thought leadership, coaching in organizations, pro bono coaching, and so much more where trained professional coached gathered into one platform.

Vision Statement

Coaching is an integral part of a thriving society and every ICF Member represents the highest quality of professional coaching.

Mission Statement

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) exists to lead the global advancement of the coaching profession.

Values

Professionalism | Collaboration | Humanity | Equity

Professionalism

A commitment to a coaching mindset and professional quality that encompass responsibility, respect, integrity, competence and excellence.

Collaboration

A commitment to develop social connection and community building.

Humanity

A commitment to being humane, kind, compassionate and respectful towards others

Equity

A commitment to use a coaching mindset to explore and understand the needs of others so I can practice equitable processes at all times that create equality for all.

The journey of Empowering coaches since 1995…

ICF was founded in 1995 by Thomas Leonard, for the purpose of having a space for all coaches to support one another and help grow the profession. The following year, the first issue of ICF Coaching News was sent to approximately 400 subscribers.

Fast-forward a few decades, and ICF is the world’s largest organization of professionally trained coaches, with more than 35,000 members in 146 countries and territories. Together, we are pursuing a powerful vision: ensuring that coaching is an integral part of a thriving society and that every ICF Member represents the highest quality of professional coaching. In 2020, ICF celebrated 25 years of serving the coaching profession. That same year, we changed our name from the International Coach Federation to the International Coaching Federation, and transitioned from a single organization to a federation of six family organizations:

  • ICF Professional Coaches
  • ICF Credentials and Standards
  • ICF Coach Training
  • ICF Foundation
  • ICF Coaching in Organizations
  • ICF Thought Leadership Institute

As coaching continues to grow worldwide, ICF will continue to evolve to meet the needs of coaches, coaching clients, our communities and the world.