The Emerge training program is a unique opportunity for individuals who identify as women, who are registered Democrats and who want to run for public office! We offer an in-depth, 70-hour training program that provides prospective women candidates the best practices in fundraising, networking, outreach, voter engagement, core campaign communications, political endorsements, press and more. We train one weekend a month and expect 100% attendance in our program. By participating fully, women graduate with a foundation from which to run a successful campaign.
Participants will also have the opportunity to interact with political professionals and Emerge alumnae who have gone on to run for office. And once an Emerge alumnae, our women become a part of a supportive network.
By design, we select no more than 25 women in each cohort for our signature program. We like to develop deeper relationships with our participants, which allows us to better assist our alumnae in choosing the right race at the right time.
Training for the Class of 2027 starts in January and concludes in May – classes will be held in person and virtually. The first training day is absolutely mandatory. One absence after that day is okay – Class Days that cannot be missed: Day 1, Fundraising, & Field.
Applications for the 2027 Emerge Signature Program are now closed. The application portal is open year-round and applications for 2027 will be reviewed in the fall of 2026. Please reach out to contact@emergeor.org with any questions. Apply here to take the first step toward your future run for elected office!
Our Curriculum
The full cohort meets in-person for all-day sessions and intersperses sessions on Zoom in a 4-hour block. The cohort receives comprehensive training on the following topics:
• Why Emerge, Why Now, Why You
• Personal Preparation to Run
• Candidate Physical and Cyber Safety
• Public Speaking and Communication
• Media, Messaging, and Technology
• Networking
• Campaign Strategy, Nuts & Bolts
• Field Operations & Election Math
• Labor, Endorsements, & Political Relationships
• Equity and Justice
• Ethical Leadership & Integrity