Verve Foundation, the not-for-profit organisation looking to bring new blood into the profession and help advisers to grow, has launched a new cohort of students starting their journey towards gaining their diploma in regulated Financial Planning.

It has collaborated with six firms to launch the new cohort, which is open to applications until 27 May.

The six firms backing the new cohort are adviser fintech and back office provider Intelliflo, discretionary investment management company PortfolioMetrix, Chartered Financial Planning firm First Wealth, Financial Planning firm Emery Little, London firm Black Swan Financial Planning and Canterbury's Pentins Financial Planners.

The Verve Foundation’s We Are Change programme is designed to provide fully-funded training and qualifications to those looking to start a career in finance, offering regular workshops, mentoring and support alongside their studies.

The firms sponsoring the initiative enable new talent to enter the profession, helping to lower the barriers of cost and lack of experience, the Foundation said.

In return, the firms are part of the movement shaping the future of financial services and can advertise future roles within the talent pool.

Hayley Rabbets, head of The Verve Foundation, said: “Our We Are Change programme operates through sponsorship from established firms and providers – we deliver the training and support, while they cover the costs of the examinations.

“All of the organisations mentioned have been supporting the initiative from the start, with Intelliflo sponsoring half of this upcoming cohort.”

Nick Eatock, Intelliflo chief executive said: “Our mission is to widen access to financial advice by providing advisers with technology that boosts efficiency and helps them reach new clients. But it’s also about fostering career opportunities for the next generation of advisers and planners.

“By partnering with The Verve Foundation, we aim to increase diversity in the industry and open doors for those exploring financial careers. We’re excited to meet this year’s talented cohort.”

The new cohort is now open to applications and will close on 27 May. Applications can be sent in here.