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 2023 starts in February and concludes in August – all classes will be held in person. The first training day is absolutely mandatory. One absence after that day is okay.
This training is open to persons who are fully vaccinated at the time of the training. All participants and trainers take a rapid antigen test no more than 12 hours before every training and must provide proof of a negative result to be admitted. At each session, Emerge will provide each participant a box of two test kits to replenish the testing kits used for the training. If you are unvaccinated for any reason, or unable to use rapid testing kits, we ask that you reach out to us and we can connect you to virtual training alternatives.
Applications for the 2023 Emerge Signature Program are open. Apply here to take the first step toward your future run for elected office!
70-Hour Signature Program – 2023
Day 1 Saturday, February 25 — 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Day 2 Saturday, March 18 — 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Day 3 Saturday, April 15 — 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Day 4 Saturday, May 6 — 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Day 5 Saturday, June 3 — 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Day 6 Saturday, June 24 — 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Day 7 Saturday, July 15 — 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Day 8 Saturday, August 12 — 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Grad Saturday, August 12 — 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
The full cohort meets in-person monthly and receives comprehensive training on the following topics:
• Public Speaking and Communication
• Fundraising
• Media and Messaging
• Networking
• Campaign Strategy
• Field Operations
• Labor and Endorsements
• Technology and New Media
• Equity and Justice
• Ethical Leadership