Emerging Leader Fellowship

Career Center

The IDA Emerging Leader Fellowship is a week-long experiential program that brings together a cohort of IDA professionals from within the urban district management industry. The fellows learn essential leadership and place management skills and gain practical tools in the areas of place-based economic development, the live-work-play experience, and public-private partnerships.

With the completion of our fourth year of the Emerging Leader Fellowship (ELF) program, we have seen graduates become new CEOs, accept CEO positions in other organizations and others have elevated to more senior staff levels. ELF candidates seem to be extremely well prepared to address complex leadership questions involving diverse community stakeholders, board governance issues and staff related issues. They are confident in discussing the pros and cons of various solutions to everyday urban challenges, and they convey energy and genuine enthusiasm. Graduates listen well to questions and respond with thoughtful insight. Continued professional development provides the greatest advantage for a successful future for both rising stars and veteran leaders—it begins with a personal commitment to continually building your skills and knowledge.

Professional development remains a hallmark of IDA. For additional information regarding the Emerging Leader Fellowship program, please contact Carolyn Dellutri, Director of Professional Development. Interested in connecting with the rising stars of IDA? Download sponsorship information.