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 board development, finance, fund development, human resources, and more.

WHO IS ELI FOR?

ELI is designed for executive directors and tribal administrators who have been in their current positions 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. Throughout the four-month program, you will meet several times per month (once with your small group, once with your mentor, and once for a webinar). 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 in your application.

WHEN IS THE NEXT ELI PROGRAM?

The next cohort will begin in February 2026 and is entirely virtual. The exact dates and times are below.   

HOW DO I APPLY?

The application period for the 2026 cohort is now closed. Check back for information about the 2027 cohort. 

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