Credential Financial Inc. has become the first retail wealth management provider in Canada to become an associate member of the Social Investment Organization, making it the largest Canadian dealer to enter the organization.

The SIO is Canada’s national non-profit association for the socially responsible investment industry. It has more than 400 members across Canada, representing financial institutions, investment firms, financial advisors and investors.

“Credit unions are the birthplace of SRI in Canada, with the Ethical Growth Fund first established in 1986 through a credit union,” said Don Rolfe, president and CEO of Credential. “Credential is the preferred wealth management provider to the credit union system so it is right that we are now taking an active role in an organization that is an important voice for Canada’s SRI industry.”

Credential’s sister organization, The Ethical Funds Company, is a manager of socially responsible mutual funds.

“Credential has long been part of the SRI industry through its relationship with The Ethical Funds Company,” said Eugene Ellmen, Executive Director of the SIO. “By joining the SIO, Credential is actively showing its support for this rapidly evolving and growing investment sector.”