SetFire Foundation and IMA Announce Partnership to Expand Sparks Mentorship Program
--Collaboration to support students and strengthen the accounting talent pipeline--
MONTVALE, N.J., November 19, 2025 – SetFire Foundation and IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants) today announced a partnership to expand the Sparks Mentorship Program to IMA’s global network of accounting and finance professionals and students.
The Sparks Mentorship Program pairs undergraduate students with experienced professionals—both active and retired—for personalized, 12-month mentorship at no cost. By connecting academic learning with real-world career guidance, the program helps students develop critical skills, gain industry insight, and navigate the transition into professional roles.
Through this partnership, IMA members are invited to serve as mentors, while IMA student chapter members gain access to mentorship opportunities that enhance academic success and career readiness. Professionals interested in becoming mentors can apply at www.setfirefoundation.org/mentor, and students can register at www.setfirefoundation.org/student.
“This partnership reinforces IMA’s commitment to developing the next generation of accounting and finance professionals,” said Mike DePrisco, President and CEO at IMA. “By connecting our experienced members with students through the Sparks Mentorship Program, we’re helping build the accounting pipeline while demonstrating IMA’s value to both faculty and students.”
Ted Bozarth, Founder and Chairman of SetFire Foundation, added: “IMA’s extensive professional network makes them an ideal partner for Sparks. Their members bring the real-world accounting and finance expertise that can truly unlock student potential and bridge the gap between classroom theory and professional practice.”
The program is designed to foster personal growth, enhance academic performance, and build career readiness through meaningful one-on-one mentorship relationships.
To participate:
- Professionals: www.setfirefoundation.org/mentor
- Students: www.setfirefoundation.org/student
For more information:
- IMA: www.imanet.org
- SetFire Foundation: www.setfirefoundation.org
About IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants)
IMA® is one of the largest and most respected associations focused exclusively on advancing the management accounting profession. Globally, IMA supports the profession through research, the CMA® (Certified Management Accountant), CSCA® (Certified in Strategy and Competitive Analysis), and FMAA™ (Financial and Managerial Accounting Associate) certification programs, continuing education, networking, and advocacy of the highest ethical business practices. IMA has a global network of about 140,000 members in 150 countries and 200+ professional and student chapters. Headquartered in Montvale, N.J., USA, IMA provides localized services through its six global regions: The Americas, China, Europe, Middle East/North Africa, India, and Asia Pacific. For more information, visit www.imanet.org.
About SetFire Foundation
SetFire Foundation is a nonprofit public charity that empowers undergraduate students through personalized, no-cost mentorship that fosters personal growth, enhances academic success, and builds career readiness. The Foundation’s flagship Sparks Mentorship Program connects students with experienced professionals across industries to facilitate meaningful knowledge exchange and practical career guidance. All board members, staff, and mentors are unpaid volunteers dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders. For more information, visit www.setfirefoundation.org.