Lead Local Leadership Academy
prepares emerging and established leaders to better understand, serve, and strengthen their local communities. The program blends leadership development, civic education, local access, and hands-on community engagement to help participants build the knowledge, relationships, and confidence to lead where they live and work.
Invest in Your Next Leader
LEAD Local gives promising employees the skills, confidence, and connections to grow into stronger leaders.
For Mid-Career Professionals
You have experience. You have perspective. You may also have that nagging sense that your next chapter should involve more influence, more purpose, or a different kind of leadership.
For Emerging Leaders
You do not need a leadership title to start becoming a leader. You just need the chance to grow, contribute, and learn how you lead best.
Apply as an Individual
Fill out the application below to enroll yourself in Lead Local Leadership Academy.
Time: 5-10 Minutes
Apply as a Sponsor
Fill out the application below to enroll a nominee under sponsorship.
Time: 5-10 Minutes
2026 - 2027 Calendar
January 2027 - Orientation - Creating a Foundation for Success
Location: Niles-Maine District Library
Theme: Leadership as a Foundation for Professional & Community Engagement
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February 2027
Location:
Theme: Leadership, Networking & Economic Development
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March 2027
Location:
Theme: Leadership, Public Health & Organizational Well-Being
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April 2027
Location: Shure Inc.
Theme: Innovation, Values & Global Leadership
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May 2027
Location: Niles Village Hall
Theme: Civic Leadership, Knowledge & Lifelong Learning
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June 2027
Location: Niles-Maine District Library
Co-Host: TeamLogic IT
Theme: Digital Leadership & Modern Business Practices
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July 2027 - Capstone & Closing
Location:
- Capstone Presentations
- Network Reflection & Recognition
- Program Completion Celebration
Program Expectations
Weekly Time Commitment:
Participants should expect an average of approximately 3 hours of work per week, including:
- Reading assigned chapters and/or articles
- Participating in instructor-facilitated online discussion boards
- Attending weekly in-person/online meetings (must attend at least 8 scheduled meetings/classes)
Connect on LinkedIn
Reserve Your Spot
Be part of the inaugural LEAD Local cohort.
Register now to take advantage of introductory pricing of $895 before the full program rate of $1,195 takes effect.
Chamber members save an additional $100.