MEDC 2026 Emerging Leaders Fellows Program Applications Open

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Name: MEDC 2026 Emerging Leaders Fellows Program Applications Open
Date: October 20, 2025
Event Description:

This program is a offered every other year. The next cycle will open in 2028.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM 

The Mississippi Economic Development Council's Emerging Leaders Fellows Program is designed to strengthen rising professionals in economic development. Fellows will gain leadership skills, broaden industry knowledge, and grow their professional networks. 


Who Can Apply?

  • Have less than 5 years of experience in the profession and/or be 35 years or younger.
  • Be an active MEDC member.
  • Must be able to attend all sessions in person. (Dates and locations listed below) 

PROGRAM TOPICS

  • Leadership Skills
  • Product Development
  • Site Restrictions & Solutions
  • Marketing Your Community & Assets
  • Business Development & Partnerships
  • Talent Attraction & Retention
  • Negotiations & Closing the Deal

Topics may very year to year. 

HOW TO APPLY?

1.)  Complete and submit the APPLICATION FORM
2.)  Attach a Resume and a Cover Letter (including any past leadership training and professional development)
3.)  Include a Letter of Endorsement from your Executive Director or Board President.

Submit all application items to Gwen Howard at ghoward@medc.ms.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Monday, November 17, 2025

 


Application Form

 

 
Location:

2026 PROGRAM DATES

This is a draft timeline. Some dates are subject to changes. Examples of past dates can be seen below.*Attendance optional, but strongly encouraged. Registration fee not included in Emerging Leaders Tuition.

October 20, 2025
Application Opens
Nov. 17, 2025 
Application Due
Dec. 1, 2025
Dec. 15, 2025
Acceptance Letters Sent
Fellows Confirm Participation
 
 
Program Sessions
Jan. 28 - 30, 2026
Orientation and Session 1 (Tupelo)
Feb. 5, 2026
Mini Workshop + MEDC Legislative Reception (Jackson)
April 2026
Session 2 (Pinebelt or Delta)
June 3-5, 2026
*MEDC Annual Conference (Biloxi)
Sept. 2026  
Session 3 (Coastal MS Tour)
Nov. 3-4, 2026
Session 4 (Greater Jackson Metro)
Nov. 4 – 5, 2025
*MEDC Fall Conference (Flowood)
Nov. 5, 2026
Graduation/ Award Ceremony (Flowood)
Contact Information:
Gwen Howard
Fees/Admission:

PROGRAM COST

  • $500 tuition (due with an acceptance letter)
  • Travel expenses for in-person sessions.
  • Optional, but strongly encouraged: MEDC Annual Conference and MEDC Fall Conference registration fees.
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