National Conservation Foundation - Next Generation Leadership Institute Accepting Applications for 2027 Cohort

Washington, D.C. —The National Conservation Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2027 Next Generation Leadership Institute, a yearlong leadership development program designed to prepare conservation district leaders to lead local, state, and national conservation efforts.

NGLI equips participants with the leadership, communication, strategic planning, and networking skills needed to address today’s most pressing natural resource challenges. Through hands-on training and professional development, participants will become trusted leaders in locally led conservation in their communities and beyond.

“NGLI is an awesome opportunity to engage with fellow conservationists across the country,” said Josh Meyers, an NGLI graduate. “It allows you to take a step out of your comfort zone, encourages you to lead, and challenges you to think critically about conservation in a different manner than you are used to.”

Eligible applicants include currently serving conservation district officials who want to build their potential for conservation leadership roles. Applications must demonstrate a commitment to future district service and include letters of support from both their local conservation district and their state or territory association.

Applications and application fees must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern on Saturday, October 31, 2026. Interviews will begin in November.

To learn more and apply, visit https://www.nationalconservationfoundation.org/ngli. The application fee may be submitted through PayPal.

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The National Conservation Foundation (NCF) is a 501(c)3 organization that aims to identify and advance strategic programs and partnerships to deliver conservation solutions through locally led conservation and to develop the next generation of conservation leaders. NCF-Envirothon is a program of NCF. Visit the NCF website to learn more.