Leadership Acceleration Program
Being a nonprofit Executive Director is a powerful calling – and a complex challenge. You lead programs, raise funds, manage staff, answer to a board, and carry your mission forward. But leadership at the top can feel isolating.
Nonprofit Net's Leadership Accelerator Program helps Executive Directors build confidence and leadership skills as they take on an important initiative. Combining expert coaching with a trusted peer group, the nine-month program is designed to support EDs as they tackle a significant organizational challenge and build leadership muscle.
A Unique Opportunity
The program provides EDs with a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, advance their organization's goals, and build a network of support. Key aspects of the program include:
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Focus on Significant Project Each participant proposes a significant organizational project or opportunity to pursue over the course of the program based on defined criteria.
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Ongoing Executive Coaching An executive coach supports each participant throughout the program. Additionally, the program includes ad hoc coaching on topics relevant to multiple participants.
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Peer Group Connections The program includes an intimate peer group of not more than 8 executive directors, with regular meetings that provide a forum for support, feedback, suggestions, and encouragement.
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Leadership Tools The program includes tools and concepts that support leadership development and the success of each participant's chosen initiative.
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Targeted Assignments Periodic assignments promote reflection, reinforce key skills, and track progress as each participant advances their performance challenge.
A Valuable Opportunity
In a participant survey, 100% of program participants:
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Were satisfied with the progress of their performance challenge
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Found the peer group valuable
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Were likely to recommend LAP to a colleague
Nonprofit Net's 2025/2026 LAP Class and Coaches
Program Cost
There is no fee for participating in the program. Nonprofit Net offers free professional development and leadership training opportunities in order to strengthen local nonprofits in the Greater Boston area.
Program Timeline
Applications for the 2026/2027 Leadership Acceleration Program will be accepted through September 10, 2026.
Nonprofit Net reviews applications as they are received, conducts phone interviews with candidates, and recommends those that best address program criteria.
The program runs from October 15, 2026, through June 10, 2027.
More Information
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Review Frequently Asked Questions about the program.
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Download the LAP application information sheet.
Questions are welcome! Please email questions to LAP (at) nonprofitnet.org.