Emerging Leaders Development Program
About the Program
The Emerging Leaders Development Program is a 7-month cohort-based program designed to provide participants who live or work in Rhode Island with additional knowledge, skills, and tools they need to advance their careers.
The program aims to provide participants with a blueprint to advocate through all phases of their career trajectory.
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, interested individuals are encouraged to apply early. The program will utilize competencies in leadership best practices, strategic thinking, leading through change, and effective communication, all centered on fostering self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and a strengths-based approach.
The goal of the program is to provide young leaders and mid-level professionals with the tools needed to advance their career strategies and move up the ladder so that they can advocate for wage increases and increases in responsibility and leadership.
The Spring 2026 Cohort is free for participants through funding received by the Rhode Island Department of Labor & Training and will be delivered by RIBBA in partnership with the University of Rhode Island Office of Strategic Initiatives.
Meet Ally - Participant Spotlight
Meet Ally Jennings— Assistant Director of Hunger Relief at Farm Fresh RI and a graduate of the Emerging Leaders Development Program!
We spent a day with Ally to get a behind-the-scenes look at her impactful work and hear how the program transformed her leadership style and approach in meaningful ways.
Are you ready to take your career to the next level? Applications for our statewide Emerging Leaders Development Program are open!
This free 7-month cohort based program for individuals who live or work in Rhode Island, is a unique opportunity to grow your skills, unlock your potential, and expand your network. We are empowering Rhode Island’s workforce for sustainability, and this program increases participants leadership capabilities, which leads to higher paying jobs and has a ripple effect throughout the community. Embark on a truly transformative and powerful journey—just like Ally.
The Emerging Leaders Development Program Includes:
Monthly full day, in-person training on leadership and managerial effectiveness
Self Assessments & Leadership Capabilities
Panel Discussions & Speakers
One-on-One Mentorship
Leadership Brand & Executive One-on-One Coaching Sessions
Civic Engagement & Volunteering opportunities
Networking Opportunities
Peer Discussions & Learning
Access to RIBBA’s resources & Network
Who is an ideal Emerging Leader?
Participants with at least 5 years of experience in profession
Has been identified as emerging leader within organization
Capacity to manage 7-month program
Live in Rhode Island
Hold a mid-level or executive position in the state of RI
Expected Program Outcomes:
A clear and achievable leadership development plan
A defined personal leadership style
Advanced knowledge of essential leadership & management skills
Enhanced communication and conflict management skills
An identified mentor within their industry
A developed personal brand, relationships & networks
A support network championing your growth
Involved in advocacy, community-based volunteering & leadership opportunities
2026 Cohort Timeline
Sunday, March 29, 2026
First Round of Applications
Apply by Sunday, March 29th for early consideration and acceptance into the program.
Sunday, April 12, 2026
Second Round of Applications
The final application deadline is Sunday, April 12th.
Early Spring
Interview
Interviews will be ongoing in March & April of 2026.
Mid-April 2026
Acceptance
Acceptance notifications will be sent to participants in mid-April
June 2026
Program Launch
The program will begin in June 2026.
2026 Session Dates
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June 16
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July 14
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August 11
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September 8
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October 13
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November 10
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December 8
Our participants are employed by some of the largest companies and organizations in Rhode Island.
Emerging Leaders: Alumni Report
Over
110
Emerging Leaders Trained
Over
98%
Completion Rate
Over
1260
Mentorship Hours Completed
Provided in Partnership with:
