Executive Leadership Intensive

Mentoring and community for executive directors in their first three years of leadership.

We believe successful leaders are supported leaders. With the Executive Leadership Intensive (ELI) you'll find a safe space where you can find tools and resources to help you grow into your role as executive director.

During your ELI experience, you will strengthen your board relationship, explore management and planning strategies with an experienced mentor, and learn from a network of peers. 

WHY JOIN ELI?

Community: You will meet fellow executive directors who are committed to creating a supportive environment as you all focus on organizational culture, your board relationship, and the day-to-day operations of running a successful nonprofit.

Board Support: Your relationship with the board is critical to a successful mission and your own success as an executive director. This program is designed to engage your board through your board chair.

One-on-One Mentor: You will receive personalized mentoring from a seasoned nonprofit leader.

Foundational Learning: We'll give you tips on key nonprofit management practices in the areas of board development, finance, fund development, human resources and more.

WHO IS ELI FOR?

ELI is designed for executive directors who have been in their current position for up to three years and want to take the next step in leading their organizations and increasing job performance. Strong applicants will have a wide array of experiences in and out of the nonprofit sector, in addition to:

  • Commitment from a board member (preferably the board chair) to participate in the first part of the kick-off and support you and the whole board in this new relationship
  • Interest in working with an experienced mentor
  • Interest in engaging with a peer network to achieve your professional goals
  • Ability to make the financial and time commitments to complete the program

HOW OFTEN WILL WE MEET?

The program will start in February with a kick-off and end in May with commencement. You will meet several times per month (once with your small group, once with your mentor, and once for a webinar) throughout the four-month program. This program is virtual. See the schedule below.

WHAT IS THE COST FOR ELI?

The fee is $2,750, or $2,200 for Foraker Partners.

Full tuition must be paid by the first day of the program. Payment plans are available as needed.

ARE SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE?

We have a limited number of tuition discounts. Please indicate your interest on your application.

WHEN IS THE NEXT ELI PROGRAM?

The next cohort will begin in February 2024 and is all virtual. See the 2023 schedule below for an general idea of the program timeline. 

HOW DO I APPLY

Applications are now closed. 

Space is limited. Our goal is to select a cohort of leaders that represent the diversity of missions and geography in our state’s nonprofit sector.

2023 Virtual Schedule

Session Frequency & Date
Kick-off

February 13 & 14 from 8:30 am - 12:30 pm*
February 21, 22, & 23: 8:30 am - 12:30 pm
*Board chair attends first two sessions

Small group check-ins Monthly; dates TBD by small group
Mentor meetings Monthly; dates TBD with mentor
Webinars Held from 10:00am - 12:00 pm: March 30 (Finance), April 19 (Human Resources), May 1 (Fundraising)

Commencement

May 22: 8:30 am - 12:30 pm