Sustainable Business Practices

Next Level Leaders

Next Level Leaders is a professional development program designed for thought leaders and change agents from West Michigan companies who seek to drive positive impact through innovative projects. This cohort-based fellowship program includes seven in-person seminars held March through September, focusing on the pillars of leadership, design and innovation, networking and reflection. Fellows will benefit from peer coaching, networking, nature-connected learning and the unique opportunity to design and implement a project for their company that will make a positive social or environmental change in their community and beyond. The experience fosters personal growth and purpose-driven work while providing tools for real-world application.

The fellowship experience

Innovation Projects

Fellows will advance a capstone project in which they will develop an idea, service, product or process, which will be of value to their company and will accomplish a positive social or environmental goal.

Seminars

Fellows will attend seven in-person seminars over the course of the year. The opening and closing seminars will be two days, with overnight lodging provided. The seminars will be structured around four core pillars: leadership, design and innovation, reflection and networking.

Network

Fellows will connect with professionals from other disciplines, have opportunities for peer coaching and join an alumni network for ongoing professional development, support and cross-industry collaboration.

The benefits

Companies

• Leadership development
• Access to new networks
• New business opportunities
• Innovation expertise

Participants

• Exposure to cutting-edge design thinking models
• A rich, reflective component and connection with nature
• Meaningful connections to cross-industry peers
• Acquiring practical tools that can be shared with colleagues

2026 program details

Fellowship fees

The program fee is $5,000. This fee, which is paid for by the fellow's company, covers all programming, seminar meals and lodging, and other associated expenses throughout the year.

Attendance

Fellows must attend all seminars.

Dates: TBA

Seminars will be held regionally, within 90 minutes of Kalamazoo.

Application process

Fellows will be nominated by their company colleagues or can submit an application.

For more information, please contact the program manager

Contact Elizabeth A. Kelly