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The Expanding Landscape of the Global Coaching Industry

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) has unveiled its much-anticipated 2025 Global Coaching Study, which provides invaluable insights into the evolution and economic impact of the coaching profession. Released on September 17, 2025, this comprehensive research highlights that the coaching sector has achieved a remarkable milestone—generating $5.34 billion in global revenue. Amidst ongoing geopolitical shifts and rapid technological advancements, this study explores how such dynamics contribute to the industry's sustained growth.

According to ICF CEO Magdalena Nowicka Mook, the results affirm coaching's significant influence on various stakeholders, including individuals, organizations, and the broader economy. The ICF has played a leading role in shaping the coaching industry over the past three decades, and this ongoing research reflects their commitment to enhancing coaching practices and promoting the profession worldwide.

Key Findings

The 2025 study marks the sixth iteration of ICF’s research initiatives aimed at understanding the coaching landscape since the inaugural study in 2007. Here are some pivotal insights gained from the latest findings:

• - Continued Dominance in Leadership Coaching: The coaching sector showcases a significant preference for leadership and executive coaching, with 54% of coaches specializing in these areas. Notably, there's a generational contrast; while 66% of millennial coaches lean towards leadership coaching, a staggering 81% of baby boomer coaches focus on this specialization.

• - Generational Changes: The study indicates exciting demographic shifts within the coaching cohort. Practitioners from Generation X increased from 49% to 53%, whereas baby boomer coaches decreased from 38% to 35%. This shift suggests a gradual revitalization as younger generations enter the profession.

• - Divergence in Skillsets and Gender Representation: The data reveals that diversity is on the rise within the coaching realm, not just in terms of gender representation but also in educational qualifications. Currently, 72% of coaches are women, with Eastern Europe leading at 81%. Furthermore, 60% of coaches are diversifying their offerings to include training, consulting, and mentoring—illustrating a response to evolving client needs.

• - Employment Growth: Of particular note, the global number of certified coach practitioners has escalated by 15% since 2023, reaching a new high of 122,974 coaches, showcasing the profession's growing appeal.

• - Positive Revenue Outlook: The survey revealed that 59% of coaches anticipate revenue growth in the upcoming year, mostly attributed to an increase in clients and coaching sessions rather than fee hikes.

The Future of Coaching

This ground-breaking study was executed by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), engaging over 10,000 participants across 127 countries. As the coaching industry continues to develop against a backdrop of changing social dynamics and economic conditions, the insights gleaned from the ICF study will be instrumental in propelling its future.

The coaching profession's global impact is solidifying its position as an indispensable component of a thriving society. Through various initiatives and educational enhancements, ICF remains focused on enriching the coaching landscape, supporting coaches' success, and fostering a broader understanding of the value of coaching in diverse realms.

For those who seek further information, the executive summary of the findings is available on the ICF website, offering a wealth of data for journalists and industry stakeholders alike. By tracking the coaching profession’s progression, ICF is committed to ensuring that coaching's potential is harnessed effectively across all sectors of society, enhancing personal and collective growth.

About the International Coaching Federation

Founded in 1995, the International Coaching Federation has grown to represent over 60,000 members and credential-holders in more than 160 countries. The organization is founded on the principles of advancing the coaching profession and reinforcing its role as essential within society. With a focus on lifelong learning and ethical standards, ICF empowers professional coaches through a variety of programs designed to uphold the highest benchmarks in coaching.

Learn more about the organization and its initiatives at coachingfederation.org.