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Contact us!
E-mail: info@journeytolead.org
Mobile / Whatsapp: 802.892.0001
Fellow Nominations
& Applications
Applications and nominations for the 2026-27 class of Fellows are open! Candidates must be mission-driven innovators who are based in the U.S. or Canada and can, with greater connections and counsel, reach the top of their industry and scale their impact. No age restriction. We believe in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th acts!
We Are Seeking…
High Achievers
Corporate
Founder/CEO or Venture Capitalist
We’re seeking a mix of emerging corporate stars and exceptional founder/CEOs. Our corporate Fellows show high potential to reach the top of Fortune 1000 companies or large private organizations. Our Founder/CEO Fellows are scaling impact-focused startups and have raised at least $10 million. Our Fellows include venture capitalists who are deploying high-dollar capital into industry-changing companies.
We select Founder/CEOs of impact-focused startups who have raised at least $10 million, and VCs who are deploying high-dollar capital into game-changing companies.
Mission Driven Leaders
JOURNEY Fellows are visionary, innovative, and committed to making an impact in such areas as healthcare, energy transformation, economic mobility, AI/technology for good, education, and national security.
Models of grit
The 25 leaders we select annually have overcome obstacles to become models of resilience and courage.
Visionary builders
with a record of innovation and sustainable impact
Inspiring leaders
with experience leading people at scale
Barrier breakers
who have overcome socio-economic or other obstacles
Nominations and Applications are open for the 2026-27 class!
Deadline: January 9, 2026
Application
timeline
Open now!
Nomination and Application windows open
December
Nomination window closes
January
Application window closes
March
2025-26 Fellows announced
Frequently asked questions
If you have other questions, please email us at info@journeytolead.org
Who is the perfect Candidate to be a JOURNEY Fellow?
Fellows are emerging star corporate leaders and CEO/Founders who are visionary, innovative, mission-driven, and on the cusp of breakout success and impact. They have overcome obstacles to reach senior leadership and will benefit from JOURNEY’s program and lifelong community of extraordinary leaders. See details here.
How does JOURNEY define impact?
The JOURNEY definition of “making an impact” is tackling the world’s most pressing societal challenges, creating positive change that’s sustainable, and engaging others to scale impact.
Do I need to hold a specific title or be at a certain level to be considered “on the cusp”?
No. We do not have specific title and level requirements. That said, JOURNEY Fellows have high-level leadership experience. See details here.
Is there an age requirement?
No! We believe in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th acts.
What is the JOURNEY year?
Fellows are selected by mid-March and then meet individually with the JOURNEY team to “map” their needs and goals for the year. The mandatory kickoff retreat is on May 3–6, 2026, followed by in-person events in Washington, D.C., in September, San Francisco in January, and New York City in March.
What happens after the JOURNEY year?
We know that careers aren’t made in a year, so we’ve built JOURNEY to be a lifelong network of support. Most Fellows become Members, paying annual dues and retaining access to the services and events they enjoyed during their Fellowship year.
What is the time commitment for the JOURNEY year?
Fellows are expected to attend the in-person events (each 2-3 days). The four-day kickoff retreat on May 3–6, 2026 is mandatory, and applicants who cannot attend should reapply the following year. Fellows are expected to attend the three other in-person gatherings (each 2-3 days in the U.S.) and monthly virtual sessions with Champions and other leadership experts.
What is the cost of being a JOURNEY Fellow?
There is no cost, thanks to the generous donations of Champions, Members, and others. Fellows with companies that will cover travel costs are asked to do so.
How do I connect with Champions?
A number of JOURNEY Champions attend each in-person event, building connections and trusted relationships with individual Fellows. In between, Fellows have unlimited opportunity to connect 1:1 with Champions for coaching, guidance, and door-opening.
What support does the JOURNEY team provide?
Throughout the JOURNEY year, the team provides individual coaching and career guidance, as well as assistance in vision/storytelling, board bios, thought leadership, and other topics to enhance and scale leadership.
What other career support will I experience?
Your class of Fellows will become lifelong friends, opening doors and providing coaching and counsel for each other.
Is a JOURNEY Fellowship open to all races, ethnicities, and types of leaders?
Yes. Fellows are U.S. and Canada-based leaders in the private sector, across industries, geographies, and backgrounds.
Do I need to be nominated to apply?
No. If you’re nominated, we’ll ask you to fill out an application. If a mentor or a leader suggests you apply, please mention his or her name in your application. Please include a professional reference in your application.
How will I know if I’m being considered?
We’ll contact you if you’re selected as a finalist. We interview all finalists before selecting a class of 25 exceptional leaders.
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