Next Step
A politically inclusive professional development program
Ready to take your Next Step?
As a Running Start alum, you’re part of a community of 27,500+ people who are ready to lead.
You’ve told us that you need support as you move through your professional career.
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Welcome to Next Step - a program that provides ongoing training and support as you navigate the political and professional world.
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We'll provide practical, hands-on training to help you develop your professional confidence as you move forward on your path to political and civic leadership. You'll leave the program trusting in your own capabilities and understanding the professional political environment.
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Next Step is the bridge to help you get from where you are to where you want to be.
Questions? Email nextstep@runningstart.org
Next Step is for you if you are...
A Running Start alum
18+ years of age
Interested in pursuing your next political or civic leadership opportunity
Excited to access monthly virtual programming from February - December 2025
Willing and open to working in a team
Willing to devote on average three hours per month to the program
"The most important thing I learned during my Running Start experience was that cultivating meaningful connections is the cornerstone of professional development."
- Alexa Marsh, Alum
During the program you will...
Attend trainings designed to help you to excel in a career in politics and leadership
Get first-hand experience with fundraising, leadership, and teamwork
Be paired with high-level mentors
Mentor a current Running Start participant
Form lasting connections with a peer support group
Grow your global, national, and local networks
Get opportunities on a variety of high-level platforms
Have the chance to attend the Reykjavik Global Forum in Iceland in November 2025
Learn to facilitate our Elect Her program and be the featured speaker at schools around the country
Join Running Start Board and top supporters for in-person networking and virtual salons
2025 Application Timeline
Check back on January 6!
Cost to Particpants
This program requires a $600 commitment that includes:​
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a $100 program fee due upon acceptance to the program
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a minimum $500 fundraising commitment
The project is designed to give participants fundraising experience.​
Questions? Email nextstep@runningstart.org
Thank you to our sponsors
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Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation
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