Applications for the 2026 Public Leadership Institute’s Political Leaders Track are open
Strong regions are shaped by leaders who understand how policy decisions affect economic growth, infrastructure, education, housing, workforce development and quality of life.
That is why the Orlando Economic Partnership’s Public Leadership Institute Political Leaders Track is so important.
As OEP works to advance Broad-based Prosperity and help realize the Orlando 2045 vision, strengthening the pipeline of leaders who can navigate both the opportunities and complexities of public service is essential to the region’s long-term success.
Presented with the support of Massey Services, Inc., the program’s application deadline is June 26. Learn more below.
What is the Political Leaders Track?
This year’s Political Track schedule coincides with primary and general election campaigns, which will provide case studies to complement the training’s proven curriculum.
Through expert instruction, lessons from graduates-turned-leaders and small-group role playing, the program guides aspiring business-minded public leaders with strategies to confidently transition from where they are to the starting line of their leadership opportunity positioned to start strong, lead and succeed.
The training covers strategies for leaders interested in exploring future elected office or an appointment to a government board or committee where they can leverage their business-minded experience, skills and talents to address critical issues and promote regional prosperity.
Among the strategies, participants will discover how to:
- Target the right office;
- Overcome barriers to entry that include addressing personal (family/finance) and professional (job/business) considerations;
- Line up political support ahead of time;
- Elevate public visibility to boost credibility and name ID before engaging;
- Capitalize on opportunities when faced with opposition and;
- Launch a campaign or an appointment opportunity with the momentum to succeed.
PLI Graduates have emerged from OEP political leadership trainings to become influential legislative and local elected leaders, as well as appointees to prominent government boards.
Class size is limited with a competitive selection process. Each participant receives a full scholarship, thanks to the generous support of program investors.
There is no commitment required to pursue an appointed or elected office, just explore the possibility.
Learn more about class dates and other criteria.
Why enroll in PLI?
The Public Leadership Institute is crucial for the dynamic future of the Orlando region and its communities, which can benefit from business-minded leaders engaged in public policy who understand business and economic issues because they live these issues.
Steady growth over the next 20 years, projected to reach three million residents by 2030, will enhance the region’s global profile and innovation potential.
At the same time, a growing population will also pose challenges for workforce development, economic opportunity, education, transportation and housing affordability.
Growth brings opportunity, but it also raises the stakes for public leadership. The decisions made by local and state officials today will influence whether the region remains competitive, connected and inclusive tomorrow.
Preparing business-minded leaders to consider public office with seriousness and integrity supports the kind of informed, forward-looking leadership needed to move the Orlando region closer to the aspirations outlined in Orlando 2045.
The Orlando Economic Partnership’s Orlando 2045 regional vision highlights three strategic priorities that require strong civic and public leadership: narrowing the talent gap, enhancing transit and infrastructure, and embracing modern urbanism.
Orlando needs prepared political leaders.
That is ultimately why OEP’s PLI Political Leaders Track matters. It strengthens the Orlando region’s leadership pipeline, lowers barriers to entry for public service, and helps ensure that the people shaping Central Florida’s future are better prepared for the responsibility.
Just as importantly, it reflects OEP’s belief that regional prosperity depends on leaders who can work across sectors, understand the policy landscape and make decisions that create opportunity for the communities, residents and businesses that call this region home.
If you or anyone you know are interested in gaining the tools to run for office and growing Central Florida’s leadership pipeline, apply today: Applications close on July 10th. Apply today!
