Fellowship for Civic Leadership

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce’s Fellowship for Civic Leadership is designed to train business leaders, aspiring public officials, and civic-minded individuals who are passionate about free enterprise, preparing them to run for elected office.

This nonpartisan program provides practical, campaign-focused training, offering a clear understanding of what it means to serve and equipping participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue public office successfully.

The program will take place on May 28-29, 2026, with additional optional virtual sessions scheduled throughout the summer of 2026. 

Participants learn directly from current and former elected officials, campaign professionals, and policy experts about the full process of running for office—from deciding to run, to building a campaign team, fundraising, voter outreach, media relations, and communicating effectively on key issues.

Sessions cover topics such as:

• Understanding Kentucky’s Political Landscape: Learn what polling tells us about Kentucky voters and the factors shaping the state’s political climate.
• Developing Your Message: Explore how to define your “why,” articulate your vision, and communicate effectively with constituents.
• Building and Managing Campaigns: Gain practical insight into campaign planning, compliance and legal considerations, budgeting, fundraising, and working with consultants.
• Campaign Finance Laws and Ethics: Understand the legal and ethical responsibilities of candidates, including compliance, reporting, and transparent fundraising practices.
• Engaging with Media: Hear from communications professionals about using media and public relations to amplify your campaign.
• Leading with Principle: Understand how supporting free-enterprise values, including job creation and developing the workforce, can guide effective public service.

While not all participants will choose to pursue office immediately, the Fellowship is designed specifically to give future candidates the tools, connections, and perspective to effectively engage in Kentucky’s policy and political landscape.

The Fellowship welcomes individuals from all industries and regions of Kentucky who are committed to building stronger communities, supporting the principles of free enterprise, and advancing pro-growth policies.

Ideal applicants include:

• Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders: Individuals with a strong interest in how free enterprise and business experience can shape effective public service.
• Emerging and Aspiring Public Leaders: Individuals who want to better understand the realities of campaigning and are preparing to run for elected office at the local, county, or state level.
• Community Advocates: Individuals involved in civic or nonprofit leadership who are interested in transitioning their community impact into elected leadership.

• Prepare Future Candidates: Provide a clear understanding of what it takes to run for and serve in public office successfully.
• Build Effective Campaigns: Offer practical training on campaign organization, voter engagement, fundraising, and message development.
• Strengthen Leadership Skills: Equip participants with the confidence and communication skills needed to lead effectively in public life.
• Foster Connection: Build a statewide network of business and community leaders committed to advancing Kentucky through civic engagement and free enterprise.

Applications are open to professionals across all sectors of Kentucky’s business and civic community. Participants are selected through a competitive process based on leadership experience, community involvement, and commitment to civic engagement.

If you’re interested in joining the Fellowship for Civic Leadership, please complete the application by February 1, 2026. 

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Attendance at the two-day training on May 28–29, 2026, is required. The cost to participate is $150, payable upon acceptance into the program. Limited scholarships may be available to help offset the program cost.

Questions? Contact John Hughes at jhughes@kychamber.com.