Developing the Next Generation of Nonprofit & Social Sector Leaders
At Leading From Within, we have a passion for investing in nonprofit and social sector service leaders. The goal of the Emerging Leaders program is to empower, elevate, and connect the next generation of these leaders throughout our region.
Emerging Leaders is a 10-month (one full day each month) program that assembles a select cohort of emerging social sector leaders from Santa Barbara County and neighboring communities, and guides them through a rigorous, relevant and applied curriculum. Thanks to our generous supporters, we will be launching our twelvth cohort in September 2026.
Imagine a Place to Grow
Unique to Emerging Leaders, this program combines a professionally relevant curriculum with support in making deep connections with peers, mentors, and community leaders. Emerging Leaders is designed to help participants increase their leadership impact in their organization, the social sector, and the community at large. In Emerging Leaders, you will discover, grow, and be energized. You will move forward with new resources and approaches for your unique leadership journey.
Consider a Meaningful Experience
Emerging Leaders is intentionally designed as a high-impact professional development experience for emerging leaders who are ready to deepen their leadership and expand their influence within their organizations and communities. Participants gain:
- Practical, research-informed tools for leading people and organizations, delivered by experienced facilitators who understand the realities of mission-driven and community-oriented work
- Leadership approaches and skills that strengthen effectiveness, resilience, collaboration, and the ability to lead through complexity and change
- Insight into the dynamics of purpose-driven organizations, including mission alignment, resource stewardship, and stakeholder engagement
- Opportunities to build meaningful connections with a diverse network of peers, community leaders, and regional resources
- Individualized support through executive and peer coaching, helping you apply what you’re learning to your real-time leadership challenges and goals
- A lasting leadership community—a trusted circle of colleagues committed to supporting one another’s growth and impact well beyond the program
To Learn More
- Read more about the Application Process, including Commitment, Fees and Dates
- Speak to many of alumni of our Emerging Leaders program
- Attend one of our information sessions(during open application period only)
To Apply
Applications are currently closed.
Our application consists of submitting the following (all via our website):
- Applicant Profile
- Current Résumé
- Application Questions Form
- Recommendation Form completed by a Board Chair, Executive Director, or Department Director