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CIP-1  ·  ISO/IEC 17024 Accredited Certification

Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate

Professionals learn to generate and apply breakthrough ideas. This is the only innovation management course accredited as ISO/IEC 17024.

The Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate certification is designed for individuals who want to understand business innovation and the processes needed to generate breakthrough ideas. Participants learn idea generation tools and how to apply them to create more and better ideas for their organizations.

Apply Now Learn About the Certification

Our Organization

About GIMI

The Global Innovation Management Institute (GIM Institute) is a global, nonprofit organization with a mission to make innovation a management discipline.

1.1

Mission & History

Global Innovation Management Institute, Inc. (GIMI) is a non-profit organization registered in December 2010 with the Companies Board of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, USA, with registered address at 110 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA 02141. Founded in 2009 by a group of chief innovation officers, executives, academics, and consultants, GIMI's mission is to advance global standards in innovation management through competence-based certification of persons.

GIMI develops, maintains, and operates certification schemes that recognize the demonstrated competence of professionals in innovation management and related disciplines, in line with ISO/IEC 17024:2012. Our work spans 60+ countries, 140+ universities, and 1,200+ corporations. In 2023, GIMI merged with the International Association of Innovation Professionals (IAOIP), establishing the largest professional organization on innovation worldwide.

GIMI certification programs are designed for professionals who are, or will be, responsible for promoting and managing innovation within an organization. Certified professionals gain insights into new approaches across various functional areas including marketing, technology, finance, and sales.

1.2

Accreditation Status

Standard
ISO/IEC 17024:2012, Conformity assessment for bodies operating certification of persons
Accreditation Body
International Accreditation Service (IAS)
Reference
Pending. The accreditation number will be published here once formally issued by IAS.
Scope
Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate
1.3

Public Information & Contact

Public Information (ISO/IEC 17024 Clause 7.2)

In conformity with ISO/IEC 17024:2012 Clause 7.2, GIMI publishes the following information without request:

  • Scope of certification and general description of the certification process: Section 2.1, 2.2, 2.3
  • All prerequisites and routes to certification: Section 2.1
  • Examination process (format, blueprint, identity verification, technical requirements, retake policy): Section 2.2
  • Application process and fees: Section 2.3
  • Recertification requirements (3-year cycle, 60 CPE units): Section 3.1
  • Use of certificate and Code of Conduct: Section 3.2 (downloadable PDF)
  • Impartiality statement: Section 4 (downloadable PDF)
  • Public verification of certifications: Section 5
  • Appeals and complaints handling process: Section 6

All public information is reviewed annually and updated as needed. For corrections or to request additional information, contact certification@giminstitute.org.

Contact

General Inquiries
info@giminstitute.org
Phone
+1 (617) 945-2783
Location
110 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, MA 02141, USA
For Accreditation Bodies & Auditors
certification@giminstitute.org
2009
Founded
60+
Countries
140+
University Partners
1,200+
Corporations

Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate

The Certification

Everything you need to know about the Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate certification: eligibility, examination, and the application journey.

2.1

Scope & Prerequisites

Scope. This page covers the Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate scheme (CIP-1) only. This certification validates foundational knowledge of innovation fundamentals, tools, techniques, and processes for breakthrough innovations. Other GIMI certifications are administered separately and fall outside the scope of this accredited program.

What You Get & What You'll Learn

What's Included

  • Level 1 Certificate (upon passing)
  • Online examination fee
  • IMBOK Level 1 Guide (e-copy)
  • Remote proctor fee

Skills You'll Master

  • Idea generation tools
  • Breakthrough thinking
  • Innovation Strategy fundamentals
  • Innovation Capacity building
  • Innovation Discipline

Career Outcomes

  • Innovation Associate
  • Innovation Specialist
  • R&D Practitioner
  • Product Innovation Analyst

Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must satisfy at least one of the following routes to certification:

Route 1 · GIMI TrainingCompletion of GIMI's Level 1 in-house training
Route 2 · CTP TrainingCompleted a CTP-authorized prep course
Route 3 · Self-StudyStudied the GIMI Level 1 Book of Knowledge
Route 4 · MBAHolding an MBA from a recognized institution
Route 5 · Other TrainingCompleted another recognized program

Note: Completing a training program does not guarantee certification and confers no advantage in the examination process. The certification decision is based solely on examination performance.

2.2

Examination

Format
60 Multiple-Choice Questions

Administered online with remote proctoring.

Pass Score
70%

Required to be granted the certification.

Domains & Weighting

15%
Demystifying Innovation

Importance and definition of innovation; innovation breakthroughs.

10%
Innovation Techniques

Individuals and teams; structured problem solving; thinking styles; cross-functional teams and networks.

75%
Innovation Process

Innovation Intent; Opportunity Insights; Fields of Play; Business Concepts; Business Case.

Identity Verification

All examinations are administered remotely. Before the examination begins, candidates must complete: webcam identity verification using a valid government-issued photo ID; a 360-degree environment scan; and confirmation that network and technical requirements are met. Continuous webcam, screen, and audio monitoring applies throughout the session. Unauthorized applications and websites are blocked. The session is recorded. Authorized aids are pen and paper only. GIMI does not administer onsite or in-person examinations.

Before each examination, candidates complete an automated identity verification process: system compatibility check, consent and facial profile capture, ID card capture, and automated validation. Candidates must have a physical, unexpired photo ID (passport, driver's license, or official state-issued ID), a well-lit environment, and a working webcam.

Technical Requirements

The examination is administered entirely online. Candidates must use a personal computer (desktop or laptop). Tablets, smartphones, and Chromebooks are not permitted.

Minimum system requirements:

Operating System
Windows 10 or later; macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later
Processor
Intel Core i3 or AMD equivalent (2.0 GHz or faster)
RAM
4 GB minimum (8 GB recommended)
Display
1280 x 720 resolution minimum; external monitor permitted
Browser
Google Chrome (latest version) or Mozilla Firefox (latest version); no browser extensions active during the exam
Webcam
Built-in or external webcam capable of 720p minimum
Microphone
Built-in or external microphone required
Internet Connection
Stable broadband connection of at least 5 Mbps download and 2 Mbps upload; wired (Ethernet) connection strongly preferred over Wi-Fi
Environment
Private, quiet room; no other persons present; desk surface must be visible to webcam

GIMI recommends running the proctor platform's system check at least 24 hours before your scheduled examination to confirm all requirements are met.

Retake Policy

Candidates are permitted up to 3 attempts to pass within the active eligibility period for each application. Attempt 1 is included in the original examination fee. Attempts 2 and 3 are governed by the retake fee policy set out in the GIMI Scheme Document. After 3 unsuccessful attempts, the candidate must wait 12 months before submitting a new application. All attempts must be completed within the active eligibility window; unused attempts expire when the window closes. Each attempt draws different items from the item bank, and the examination platform enforces this rule so that no candidate sees the same items on consecutive attempts.

2.3

Apply & Fees

How to Apply

  1. Complete the online application via the GIMI website
  2. Review and digitally sign the GIMI Candidate Agreement
  3. Receive notification of your eligibility outcome within 10 business days
  4. Pay the examination fee directly to GIMI
  5. Receive your scheduling confirmation by email
  6. Sit the remote-proctored online examination within your scheduled window
  7. Receive the certification decision by email

Apply Now

Fees & Certificate

Examination Fee
USD $560 (first attempt, includes one examination sitting)
Payment
Paid directly to GIMI
Certificate Issued
"Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate" (official IAS-registered scheme name)

Certificate Holders

Maintain Your Certification

Your certification is valid for 3 years. Here's what's required to keep it active.

3.1

Recertification & CPE

Certification Cycle
3 Years

From the effective date of certification.

CPE Requirement
60 CPE Units

One CPE unit equals 50 contact minutes of structured instruction or equivalent professional activity.

What Counts as CPE

Qualifying CPE activities include:

For-Credit Courses

Graded for-credit courses in innovation management

Working Groups

Membership in a recognized professional body

Innova-Events

Participation in GIMI Innova-Events

Think Tank

Participation in GIMI Think Tank activities

Speaking

Speaking engagements at recognized professional events

Publishing

Published articles or research in innovation management

Teaching

Teaching or facilitating innovation-related courses or workshops

Evidence required. Each CPE submission must include the attendee name, course or event title, sponsoring organization, number of credits, and date. Registrations, invoices, and course syllabi alone are not sufficient. GIMI conducts an annual sample audit of CPE records.

Submission

  1. Log into your GIMI portal at least 60 days before your expiry date
  2. Complete the Recertification Application and upload documentation for all 60 CPE units
  3. Pay the recertification fee if applicable (no fee if all 60 CPE units are completed and documented)
  4. Receive the recertification decision by email

Access Recertification Portal

Missed Window

There is no reinstatement window. If a certification lapses, the certified person must submit a new application and pass the examination again. There is no pathway to recertify without re-examination once the certification has expired.

3.2

Use of Certificate & Code of Conduct

Rules for Use

Permitted
  • Using the designation "Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate" on business cards and professional profiles
  • Displaying the GIMI digital badge on professional platforms such as LinkedIn and email signatures
Not Permitted
  • Any use that harms or misrepresents GIMI's reputation
  • Implying GIMI endorsement of any product, service, or organization
  • Claiming false affiliation with GIMI beyond the scope of your certification
  • Altering, reproducing, or transferring the certificate or digital badge in any form
  • Continuing to use the designation after expiry, suspension, or withdrawal

Certificates and marks are the exclusive property of GIMI and are non-transferable. Upon suspension or withdrawal, use must cease immediately and the certificate must be returned. Ordinary misuse is subject to written notice; gross violations result in immediate revocation. Continued unauthorized use may result in legal action.

Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct is the binding behavioral standard for every GIMI certified person throughout the certification cycle. It covers core principles of integrity, competence, impartiality, confidentiality, and cooperation with GIMI oversight. Acceptance is a condition of holding certification.

Download Code of Conduct (PDF)

Suspension & Withdrawal

Suspension
Grounds & Duration

Failure to recertify by the expiry date, breach of the Code of Conduct, or submission of false information in the certification application. Minimum 6 months, maximum 2 years.

Withdrawal
Grounds

Failure to resolve the cause of suspension within the notified period, serious or repeated Code of Conduct breach, or fraudulent examination practices.

The certified person is notified in writing of the action, the reasons, the duration, and the right to appeal. All suspensions and withdrawals are reflected in the public certified-person registry. Withdrawal decisions may be contested through the GIMI appeals process (see Section 6).

ISO/IEC 17024 Requirement

Impartiality

GIMI's certification body operates independently from training. The information below explains how impartiality is structured and protected.

Our Impartiality Commitment

The GIMI certification body is responsible for the impartiality of its certification activities. We do not allow commercial, financial, or other pressures to compromise that impartiality. Training is not required to sit for our certification examinations.

4.1

Impartiality Policy

Top Management Commitment

The Global Innovation Management Institute (GIMI) ensures that its operations safeguard objectivity and impartiality in delivering its certification programs in a fair and non-discriminatory manner.

GIMI policies and procedures are designed to be non-discriminatory and are administered with fairness and equity. GIMI makes its certification programs available to all applicants who meet the publicly available criteria for certification. Certification is not conditional upon membership in any association, group, or organization. However, certification eligibility may be restricted where there is an unacceptable risk to GIMI's integrity, such as evidence of fraudulent behavior, concealment of information, or provision of false information during the application or assessment process.

All GIMI personnel, contractors, and volunteers involved in the certification process act objectively and are free from undue commercial, financial, or other pressures that could compromise impartiality. They have an ongoing obligation to disclose potential conflicts of interest and ensure that they are appropriately managed.

GIMI does not offer or endorse any products or services affiliated with the certification program that could impact its impartiality. The institute does not suggest or imply that certification would be simpler, easier, faster, or more affordable if any specific person or consultancy were engaged.

GIMI actively monitors compliance with this Impartiality Statement through the administration of its Management System, including rigorous processes to identify and manage risks to impartiality. By adhering to these principles, GIMI is dedicated to upholding the credibility and objectivity of its certification programs.

Approved by: Chief Executive Officer, GIMI, on behalf of Top Management. Reviewed annually in accordance with the GIMI Document Control Procedure.

Download Signed Impartiality Statement (PDF)

Financial Independence

All Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate certification fees are paid directly to GIMI. Fees are not collected by or channelled through training partners. The public fee schedule is available in the Apply & Fees section above.

Independence of Certification Decisions

Personnel who make certification decisions for the Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate scheme have not participated in training or examining that specific candidate.

Report an Impartiality Concern

To report an impartiality concern related to the Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate certification program, contact: certification@giminstitute.org

All concerns are investigated by personnel independent of the reported activity. Acknowledgment within 5 business days of receipt.

4.2

Separation from Training

Preparation training is available through GIMI Certified Training Partners (CTPs) as an optional pathway. Completing a training program is not a prerequisite for the Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate examination and confers no advantage in the certification process.

Structural controls separating training from certification for this scheme:

  • The certification body operates under governance that is independent of the training function
  • All Level 1 certification fees are paid directly to GIMI, not through training partners
  • This certification page contains no links to training partner offers or course sales
  • Certified Training Partner agreements include impartiality obligations and are subject to ongoing monitoring
  • Certification decisions are made by personnel who have not trained or examined the candidate in question

ISO/IEC 17024, Clause 7.2.1

Public Register

Verify the current status of any GIMI Certified Innovation Professional Level 1: Associate certification.

5.1

Search & Verify

Search by certified person's name or by certificate ID. Results show the current status, scope, effective date, and expiry date.

For employers and third parties: a "verified active" result confirms the holder currently meets GIMI's certification requirements. Status values: active, expired, suspended, or withdrawn.

Interim verification: the public registry is being deployed. For verification requests during this period, contact certification@giminstitute.org with the certified person's name or certificate ID. GIMI will respond with current status, scope, effective date, and expiry date.

Candidate Rights

Appeals & Complaints

Two channels for two different kinds of feedback. Use the route that matches your situation.

↩
6.1

File an Appeal

If you wish to contest a certification decision: eligibility, exam result, suspension, or withdrawal.

Who can submit: Any applicant, candidate, or certified person seeking reconsideration of a certification decision, including denial of certification or recertification, suspension, withdrawal, or reduction of scope.

How to submit: Complete the Appeals Submission Form, available on the GIMI website, and send it to certification@giminstitute.org. If you are unsure whether your matter is an appeal or a complaint, submit anyway, and GIMI will classify and route it.

Deadline: Within 30 calendar days of receipt of the decision being appealed.

Timelines
Acknowledgment of receipt: within 10 business days
Decision communicated: within 60 calendar days of acknowledgment
Progress updates provided at each milestone
Formal closure notice provided in writing

Handling: Appeals are determined by the GIMI Appeals Board, which is independent of the original decision. Any Appeals Board member involved in the underlying decision is recused. All appeals are handled in strict confidence; information is shared only on a need-to-know basis.

Outcomes: Upheld (decision changed), denied (decision stands), or conditional (specific further requirements). The decision and reasons are notified in writing. Submission and resolution of an appeal shall not result in any discriminatory action against the submitter.

No fee. GIMI does not charge any fee for the submission, handling, or determination of appeals.

Submit an Appeal
!
6.2

File a Complaint

If you wish to raise concerns about service, conduct, process, or the behavior of a certified person.

Who can submit: Any person or organization regarding GIMI's certification activities or the conduct of a certified person.

How to submit: Complete the Complaint Submission Form, available on the GIMI website, and send it to certification@giminstitute.org. If you are unsure whether your matter is an appeal or a complaint, submit anyway, and GIMI will classify and route it.

When to submit: Complaints may be submitted at any time relevant to the matter complained of.

Timelines
Acknowledgment of receipt: within 48 hours
Initial review completed: within 5 business days
Investigation completed: typically within 15 business days
Progress updates provided at each milestone
Formal closure notice provided in writing

Handling: Complaints are handled by personnel independent of the matter complained of. Where the complaint concerns the Certification Director, the CEO assumes handling responsibility. Where the complaint concerns the CEO, the matter is referred to the Advisory Commission. All complaints are handled in strict confidence.

Outcomes: Written outcome including the resolution and any corrective actions. Where the complainant remains dissatisfied, the option of escalation to an independent review is available. Submission and resolution of a complaint shall not result in any discriminatory action against the submitter.

No fee. GIMI does not charge any fee for the submission, handling, or determination of complaints.

Submit a Complaint

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