Overview
Advance Native Political Leadership is expanding the Native Leadership Institute (NLI) with additional training opportunities designed to support leaders at every stage of their journey.
The NLI Launch Training is an introductory, four-hour virtual program for people who are beginning to explore leadership and want to make a greater impact in their communities. Whether you are curious about public service, community leadership, advocacy, or civic engagement, this training is designed to help you take the next step.
Through guided reflection, conversation, and interactive learning, participants will explore the foundations of democracy, discover multiple pathways to leadership, and begin clarifying the values and experiences that shape their leadership journey.
Details
📅 Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2026 from 4–8pm EDT
💻 Format: 4-hour virtual training
💸 Cost: Free to participants
What You’ll Gain
- A clearer understanding of different leadership pathways
- Tools to begin taking action in your community
- Greater clarity around your personal “why” and values
- Connection to peers, facilitators, and future opportunities
- A foundation for continued leadership growth
Who Should Apply?
The NLI Launch Training is designed for people who are early in their leadership journey and curious about stepping into greater responsibility in their communities, workplaces, or civic spaces.
You may already be someone others turn to for support, ideas, or guidance, or you may simply feel ready to get more involved and create change in your community.
No prior leadership experience, formal title, or plans to run for office are required.
Please note: Current elected officials or individuals who have formally declared or filed to run for office are not eligible for this program.
Interview & Selection Process
We want to make sure that our program is a good fit and that we are in alignment on our values as we work on leadership development together. Our interview and selection process is designed to provide an opportunity for us to get to know each other and to have a more in-depth conversation about the program and your experience, goals, and future plans.
- The first step is to fill out the application.
- Once you’ve submitted your application, we will invite you to submit a short pre-recorded video interview.
- We will review your application and make final decisions based on fit, values alignment, and readiness.
- If accepted, you’ll receive program details and pre-work ahead of the training.
Application Deadline
Application Deadline: September 1, 2026
Please note: Participation in the application process does not guarantee admission. Applicants are selected based on eligibility, alignment with program values, and demonstrated readiness.
About the Native Leadership Institute (NLI)
The Native Leadership Institute is a national leadership development and research institute created by Indigenous leaders to strengthen civic and community leadership.
NLI builds research-informed pathways for leaders to shape civic life through community organizations, advocacy, public service, movement building, and civic institutions.
Our trainings are rooted in Indigenous values, relationships, and collective wellbeing. We believe leadership takes many forms, and that Native peoples already lead every day in our families, communities, and movements.
Why the NLI Launch Training?
Leadership often begins with curiosity — a desire to make a difference, support your community, or become more involved in shaping the future around you.
The NLI Launch Training helps participants explore what leadership can look like for them, identify where they can make an impact, and begin building the confidence, relationships, and skills to take the next step in their leadership journey.
Know Someone Who Should Apply?
Leadership often begins in community. Many Native leaders step forward because someone recognized their gifts, encouraged their growth, or reminded them that their voice matters.
If you know someone who is ready to deepen their leadership journey, nominate them and help us continue building strong, values-driven leadership rooted in Indigenous communities.
Questions?
Please refer to the FAQs below. If your question isn’t answered, contact us at nli@advancenativepl.org.