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2026 ICF Coaching Futures Report

Envisioning Coaching's Next Horizon

This report does not predict a single future. Instead, it explores multiple scenarios shaping access to coaching worldwide. Grounded in global insights, foresight methods, and creative storytelling, we invite you to imagine what coaching could become and how today’s actions influence what comes next.

The future is not fixed. Help shape it.

I am curious about

I am curious about how coaching, empowered by emerging technologies, can foster a new digital democracy — one that respects minorities, enables more direct participation, and supports more distributed decision-making.

Akihiko MoritaJapan
I am noticing that

coaching practices are evolving at different speeds across regions. In the north America and Europe, the field is more mature, especially within large corporations and multinationals. In the Middle East, coaching is still developing, with a growing interest in accredited training programs. Government organizations, in particular, are investing in upskilling their executives and HR professionals to become manager-coaches and internal coaches, often through large-scale programs.

Jihane LabibUnited Arab Emirates
I wonder if

lawsuits across the United States against Life Coaches like that one in Utah could push the industry toward regulation. It feels like coaches working in areas close to healthcare (like ADHD or wellness coaching) might end up needing licenses, like therapists

MariaUnited States
I am noticing that

(Based on conversations I participate in within ICF and EMCC communities) coaching is becoming more relational and emergent, less competency model-driven. Accreditation processes, especially at master levels, may evolve to reflect real practice more closely. Reflective practice and supervision are increasingly seen as essential ways to resource ourselves. I sense CPD is expanding into CPPD, where Personal development and inner work stand alongside professional learning as key to our growth.

Adrijana MilosavljevicSerbia
I am noticing that

I am noticing more AI coaches and tools mix coaching with advising or consulting. Many coaches already bring expertise from second careers. Maybe the future is a hybrid coach—someone who mentors, trains, and inspires.

Ivy L.United States

What’s your hunch about the future of coaching?

We want to hear from you! Tell us your hunch and explore others from around the world.

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Ecosystem-centered Coaching: Futures Thinking for Real-World Impact

In this 4-part series, discover how futures thinking can empower you to navigate the evolving role of coaching within interconnected ecosystems. Through our four-phase framework—Observe, Envision, Anticipate, Act— you will learn how to prepare for the future of ecosystem-centered practices, integrate AI and new technologies, and embrace ethical, holistic approaches that create real-world impact for you, your clients, and your communities.

Apply the futures thinking loop to coaching

Futures Thinking fosters a mindset that embraces change, encourages innovation, and empowers action toward desired futures.

Apply the futures thinking loop to coaching

Futures Thinking fosters a mindset that embraces change, encourages innovation, and empowers action toward desired futures.

Top Articles

Dive into this month’s top trending articles on the future of coaching

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