Flagship program
The Idaho Leadership Fellowship
A statewide fellowship that combines practical leadership training, one-to-one mentorship, a capstone project that produces real work, and a lifelong connection to the Idaho Leaders network.
Why the fellowship exists
Plenty of capable people never get a structured chance to prepare for leadership. They are good at their work, trusted by the people around them, and ready for more — but no one has ever invested in them deliberately. The fellowship is that investment: a defined period where a capable Idahoan gets training, a mentor, a meaningful project, and a network, all pointed at one outcome — being genuinely prepared for greater responsibility.
What the fellowship is
Fellows participate in shared statewide sessions and track-specific instruction, meet regularly with a matched mentor, and complete a capstone that produces visible, useful work for an Idaho organization or community. The fellowship ends with a presentation of that work — and continues for life through the alumni network, where fellows are asked to return as mentors and supporters of those who follow.
Three tracks
Emerging — for people establishing their professional and civic foundations.
Rising — for people moving toward management, board, or community leadership.
Executive — for established leaders preparing for senior responsibility.
The arc of a cohort
- Orientation — goals, expectations, and a written development plan
- Sessions — practical curriculum in leadership, communication, Idaho institutions, and career strategy
- Mentorship — monthly meetings with a matched mentor against measurable goals
- Capstone — a project with a defined problem, an external beneficiary, and measurable results
- Presentation — final work presented to the cohort, mentors, and partners
- Alumni — a lifelong network, and an invitation to give back
Selection
Fellows are chosen through an application, references, and an interview. We look for demonstrated commitment to Idaho, evidence of initiative and follow-through, integrity, and the capacity to benefit from — and contribute to — the cohort. Political ideology, party registration, and campaign involvement are not selection factors, and financial means is not a barrier.
Cost and scholarships
We are committed to keeping the fellowship accessible, including need-based support and scholarships for rural participants. Program cost and scholarship details will be published with the inaugural cohort announcement.