Welcome and Introduction
Welcome to the Canadian Institute of Planners, also known as CIP! As a student member, you are joining a community of over 9,500 planning professionals. CIP has been the voice of Canada’s planning community since 1919 and is committed to supporting your career in planning. We’re excited to have you on board!
Who We Are
CIP is a member-based organization for planning professionals across Canada and beyond. Our members work in both the public service and the private sector, across fields such as land use planning, environmental resource management, land development, heritage conservation, social planning, transportation planning, and economic development.
What We Do
CIP advocates for planners and the priorities of the planning profession and offers a wide range of member services and career development opportunities. We also work closely with Provincial and Territorial Institutes and Associations (PTIAs), which regulate the planning profession and govern the rights and responsibilities of their members.
Governance & Transparency
CIP is a not-for-profit organization, governed by a 13-member Board of Directors (including one student member). We provide Board Bulletins summarizing meetings, and you can attend our Annual General Meeting (AGM), typically held virtually at the end of May. Our Annual Reports are available online.
Our Commitment to Students
As a student in an accredited Canadian planning program, you receive free CIP membership until your graduation. Once you become a student member, you are required to renew your membership annually. This is your gateway to a wealth of resources and opportunities designed to support your education and future career in planning.
Access Your Member Area
The Member Area is your one-stop shop to access all member products and services. It’s also where you can ensure your profile and preferences are up to date. Access to our CIP Member Directory, update your contact information and highlight your specialties and skills!
Our Planning Priorities
CIP’s current focus is on five key policy priorities. These priorities are embedded in our Strategic Plan: 1,835 Days of Impact, which aims to promote inclusive, sustainable communities connected to the natural world.
Volunteering & Networking Opportunities
Volunteer
Joining CIP’s LinkedIn groups can provide ongoing networking and learning opportunities, connecting you with like-minded professionals and industry trends.
Volunteer Your Expertise
From national committees and juries to events and conferences, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Additionally, representing CIP on external projects and organizations can help broaden your network and enhance your impact within the field.
Attend a Conference
As a student, you get a discounted rate for CIP’s annual national planning conference. Attend sessions, workshops, and networking events. Plus, you can volunteer and receive additional discounts on registration fees, as well as submit a student poster or proposal to present.
Academic and Career Support
Plan Canada Magazine
Plan Canada is Canada’s national planning magazine. As a student, you get free digital access. The magazine covers innovative projects, research, and the latest in Canadian planning.
Canadian Planning and Policy Journal
Canadian Planning and Policy Journal is a bilingual, open-access, peer-reviewed publication undertaken by the Association of Canadian University Planning Programs (ACUPP). The journal focuses on the diversity of planning theory and practice across Canada.
Canadian Institute of Planners National Planning Job Board
Welcome to the professional hub for planners at all stages of their journey. Whether you’re launching your career, advancing in your field, or shaping the future of the profession, CIP connects you with resources, opportunities, and networks to succeed. You’ll be able to filter jobs by location, area of expertise, or experience level, making your search more focused and efficient.
Find New Opportunities
Looking for a new opportunity in planning? The National Planning Job Board is designed to help professionals like you find positions that align with your skills and interests.
Upload Your Resume
Our Resume Database gives employers access to a pool of talented planners looking for their next role. Make it easy for potential employers to consider you for roles.
Set Up Job Alerts
Sign up for job alerts and let the perfect roles come to you. Customize your preferences to receive personalized updates about job openings that match your skills and interests.
Webinars
Our Webinar Program offers free year-round learning opportunities. These webinars cover a wide range of current and emerging planning topics.
Access our CPL HUB, where you’ll find free, on-demand resources, including recorded webinars and conference presentations and best practices in planning. The CPL HUB is available at no additional cost to all members!
Other Member Benefits
Insurance Discounts
CIP has partnered with The Personal to offer exclusive home and auto insurance discounts to our members.
Switch today for:
- Exclusive rates + additional savings when you bundle home and auto
- Personal support from friendly and knowledgeable advisors
- Convenient Online Services to view and manage your policies 24/7
Visit thepersonal.com/cip to learn more about your exclusive insurance offer.
The Personal refers to The Personal Insurance Company. Certain conditions, limitations and exclusions may apply. Savings are based on each client’s individual profile. Savings and discounts are subject to eligibility conditions. Rates and discounts are subject to change without notice. Auto insurance is not available in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and British Columbia due to government-run plans. The Personal® and related trademarks are trademarks of The Personal Insurance Company, used under licence.
Stay Connected
Student Support Newsletter
Stay tuned for our special Student Support newsletter for the latest news and opportunities!
CIP Blog
Keep up to date with CIP’s latest news and updates on our blog!
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Planning for the Future: Reflections from Ceylin Karasahin, Student Volunteer at ACTION 2025
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Planning for the Future: Reflections from Liam Vu, Student Volunteer at ACTION 2025
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Housing is Where Jobs Sleep at Night: Response to the Build Canada Homes Market Sounding Guide
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Federal Budget 2025: Building One Canadian Economy That Strengthens Our Communities
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Planning for the Future: Reflections from Benjamin Holt, Student Volunteer at ACTION 2025
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Planning for the Future: Reflections from Robbie Brooks, Student Volunteer at ACTION 2025
Contact Us
We look forward to supporting you throughout your planning journey. Welcome again, and enjoy exploring all the benefits of your CIP membership! If you have any questions or need help, feel free to reach out to us:
- Email: membership@cip-icu.ca
- Phone: 1-800-207-2138 or 613-237-7526
- Website: www.cip-icu.ca
- Office: 401 – 141 Laurier Avenue W., Ottawa, ON, K1P 5J3