Leadership Acceleration Program

LAP is a nine-month program designed to support nonprofit executive directors (EDs) in tackling significant opportunities or challenges within their organizations.

NPN advances Greater Boston's nonprofit community through expert-led seminars and networking forums. With over 21 years of experience providing services mainly through webinars and seminars, NPN created LAP to offer a sustained resource for executive directors (EDs). This initiative is designed to support EDs by addressing their challenges and enhancing their leadership capabilities.

The program begins in October 2025. If selected to participate, you agree to commit to cohort activities from October 2025 through June 2026, including group meetings which will be held on the following Thursday afternoons (three in person sessions and the rest virtual): • October 16, 2025 • November 13, 2025 • January 29, 2026 • April 16, 2026 • June 18, 2026

The program concludes in June 2026.

There is no fee for participating in the program.

Small and medium-sized nonprofits often lack professional development budgets. Executive directors (EDs) face numerous challenges similar to CEOs in for-profit organizations. The LAP program aims to bridge this gap by providing leadership development opportunities to EDs in small and medium-sized nonprofits, ensuring they have the necessary support and resources to succeed despite limited financial means.

NPN’s mission is to strengthen, enhance, and advance nonprofits in the Greater Boston area, offering dedicated support to nonprofit leaders.

Selection involves three phases: Application review based on a specific criteria. Evaluation of responses to ensure alignment with challenge criteria. Interviews with Nonprofit Net's LAP committee.

A performance challenge is any significant issue within your organization that requires behavioral change and dedicated effort to resolve.

Expect one-on-one, results-oriented coaching. Coaches help craft performance challenges into goals, define success metrics, set KPIs, and develop action plans. Regular check-ins ensure accountability and progress tracking.

Yes, the program is specifically designed for Executive Directors.

Yes, EDs from nonprofits of various sizes are welcome to apply.

Please contact the Lead Coach (lap@nonprofitnet.org) to discuss potential accommodations for your suitability.

The program runs for nine months, from October 2025 to June 2026.

Yes, you can reapply.

Please visit www.nonprofitnet.org/lap for details on program details, qualification criteria, and the application process.

Please contact the Lead Coach (lap@nonprofitnet.org) to discuss potential accommodations for your schedule.

Benefits include enhanced leadership skills, actionable strategies, and a strong professional network. Additionally, most executive directors (EDs) do not have access to a performance coach. EDs typically have a board to report to and a staff to manage, but they need an objective, skilled, and dedicated third party to support their success. The performance coach provided by LAP acts as a thought partner, helping EDs brainstorm, strategize, and navigate their challenges effectively.

The program is intended for EDs, but board members with ED-like responsibilities can inquire (lap@nonprofitnet.org) about eligibility.

Please contact the Lead Coach (lap@nonprofitnet.org) to discuss potential accommodations.

The program takes place in Greater Boston, with some in-person sessions. If selected to participate, in addition to bi-weekly coaching calls, you agree to to cohort activities from October 2025 through June 2026, including group meetings which will be held on the following Thursday afternoons (three in person sessions and the rest virtual): • October 16, 2025 • November 13, 2025 • January 29, 2026 • April 16, 2026 • June 18, 2026

Coaches are experienced professionals matched with participants based on interviews and applications.

Expect regular calls, support, advice, brainstorming sessions, problem-solving, and a strong, supportive relationship.

Over nine months, you will receive support from your peer group and an executive coach, and progress will be measured regularly.

Time commitments vary, but expect regular interactions with your coach and peer group, as well as a few short assignments.

The program is specifically designed for EDs of small and medium-sized non-profits.

Please contact LAP’s Lead Coach (lap@nonprofitnet.org) for additional clarity.

Yes, a letter of support from your board chair is required as well as a letter of reference from a professional colleague.

Selected participants will receive the schedule upon acceptance.

Yes, networking opportunities are an integral part of the program.

Coaches are assigned based on interviews and application details by the Lead Coach.

Contact the Lead Coach to discuss your concerns.

Please raise any issues with your coach or the program administration.

Yes, you can list your participation in the LAP program.

Donations are not required but are always appreciated.

The program includes both virtual and in-person sessions. If selected to participate, in addition to bi-weekly coaching calls, you agree to to cohort activities from October 2025 through June 2026, including group meetings which will be held on the following Thursday afternoons (three in person sessions and the rest virtual): • October 16, 2025 • November 13, 2025 • January 29, 2026 • April 16, 2026 • June 18, 2026