Certified Trading Card Association Inc was founded in 2025 after recognizing a gap in the trading card industry. The company is a nonprofit trade association dedicated to making the trading card industry safer, smarter, and stronger.

What the company does

CTCA works through industry standards, certification programs, education, and consumer protection initiatives. Its consumer protection tools include the Global Trading Card Registry.

Who it serves

CTCA serves collectors, hobby shops, breakers, manufacturers, marketplaces, and other businesses across the global trading card industry. The company gained its first members through grassroots outreach, personal relationships, and direct conversations with business owners and industry leaders.

How it works

CTCA brings the entire industry together under one neutral, nonprofit trade association. Most of its growth comes from word-of-mouth referrals, industry partnerships, social media, and its presence at major trading card shows.

What sets it apart

The company developed its Certified Breaker and Trusted Retailer programs along with the Global Trading Card Registry.

I learned that having a big vision is important, but disciplined execution, strategic focus, and surrounding yourself with the right people are what turn that vision into lasting impact.

Nick Jarman, Founder & CEO

Where it is heading

CTCA is focused on turning trust from a marketing promise into something that can be independently verified. The company is building infrastructure intended to make the hobby safer, smarter, and stronger for generations to come.