Next Step
A politically inclusive professional development program
Ready to take your Next Step?
As a Running Start alum, you’re part of a community of 25,000+ people who are ready to lead. You’ve told us that now you need support as you move through your professional career.
Welcome to Next Step - a program that provides ongoing training and support as you navigate the political world.
We'll provide practical, hands-on training to help you develop your professional confidence as you move forward on your path to political leadership. You'll leave the program trusting in your own capabilities and understanding the professional political environment.
Next Step is the bridge to help you get from where you are to where you want to be.
Questions? Email nextstep@runningstart.org
Next Step is for you if you are...
A Running Start alum
18+ years of age
Interested in pursuing your next political leadership opportunity *
Excited to access monthly virtual programming from March - December 2024
Willing and open to working in a team
*Political leadership can mean different things to different people. Next Step is inclusive - tell us what your goals are in the application!
"The most important thing I learned during my Running Start experience was that cultivating meaningful connections is the cornerstone of professional development."
- Alexa Marsh, Alum
During the program you will...
Continue to develop skills needed to excel in a career in politics
Get first-hand experience with fundraising, leadership, and teamwork
Be paired with high-level mentors
Form lasting connections with peers
Grow your global, national, and local networks
Get opportunities on a variety of high-level platforms
Additional Opportunities
Run to become Running Start's 2024 Ambassador at the Young Women to Watch Awards in Washington, DC
Participate as a mentor in the DC High School Program in June 2024
Train to become an Elect Her facilitator
Join Running Start's delegation at the Reykjavik Global Forum in 2024
Note that participation in Next Step does not automatically guarantee these opportunities. Scholarships may be available.
2024 Application Timeline
January 29 - Application Opens
February 20 - Application Deadline
February 20 - Group Interview 1 *
February 22 - Group Interview 2 *
February 28 - Group Interview 3 *
March 1 - Next Step Cohort and
Ambassador finalists announced
March - December - Next Step Program
*Applicants selected for the interviews will participate in any one group interview, and will be able to choose which option they want to participate in.
Cost to Particpants
This program requires a $600 commitment that includes
-
a $100 program fee due upon acceptance to the program
-
a $500 fundraising commitment
The project is designed to give participants the experience of fundraising in a campaign setting.
Thank you to our sponsors
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