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DYCD LEADERSHIP ACADEMY EXCELLENCE        INCLUSION        GOVERNANCE

If you are the Executive Director / President / CEO of a small to mid-sized nonprofit that’s ready to grow and strengthen its overall capacity, apply to the DYCD Leadership Academy Cohort.

Applications due February 5, 2025

Cohort members are selected by February 13, 2025

Program dates:  Late February to Early June 2025

INFO SESSION

Potential applicants are encouraged to view the Information Session to learn more about the program and application process:

BACKGROUND

The New York City Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) works with local organizations to help communities grow and thrive. DYCD funds programs that reduce the effects of poverty and create opportunities for New Yorkers to succeed. DYCD believes that organizations led by people in the community know best how to meet local needs.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

 

DYCD is starting a new training program called the DYCD Leadership Academy: Excellence, Inclusion, and Governance. This pilot program helps emerging organizations learn how to manage and grow successfully. The DYCD Leadership Academy includes training focused on skills, small group support, and networking.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

 

ELIGIBILITY

Organizations submitting applications must meet the following requirements:

•Are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

•Are registered with the Charities Bureau of the New York State Office of the Attorney General.

•Are based in New York City and primarily serve NYC residents (at least 75%).

•Do not utilize fiscal sponsors/conduits.

•Have a full-time organizational executive leader that can commit to fully participating in the program.

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Preferred considerations in participant selection (not required):

•Have organizational revenue of at least $600,000 and up to $2 million.

•Have additional organizational leaders (board and staff) who can commit to attending relevant sessions.

•Have a demonstrated commitment to serving poor or historically marginalized communities.

•Demonstrates a commitment to diversity and inclusion, including the makeup of its leadership

 

Organizations that do not meet all the preferred criteria are still encouraged to apply.

 

COST

The program is free for participants and their organizations.

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THE PILOT PROGRAM

The DYCD Leadership Academy equips nonprofit leaders with the knowledge, tools, and strategies needed to cultivate healthy, high-performing organizations. Upon completing the Academy, members will have a clear understanding of the components of a healthy organization, strengthened leadership skills, and a broadened professional network of supportive peers.

 

The DYCD Leadership Academy Program is a 4-month program designed to help organizations grow quickly. It includes in-person core skills sessions, virtual electives, small group support, and networking opportunities.

 

Program sessions will be led by nonprofit experts including:

 

8RES

8RES is a Minority Women’s Business Enterprise (MWBE) that works to strengthen and empower nonprofit leaders through services that build on their organization’s existing expertise and context. We blend academic rigor and practical experience to enhance organizational capacity and drive mission advancement. Our services include Organizational Development; Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning; Board Development; Fundraising; Strategic Planning; Leadership Building; Program Design and Development; Change Management; and Innovation.

 

BDO

BDO aims to help nonprofits build fiscal strength. Their work with nonprofits and foundations is focused on providing the tailored assistance organizations need to develop capacity to fulfill their mission more effectively and efficiently. Their dedicated team of professionals serves nonprofit organizations, wherever they are on the organization development continuum, from start-up to legacy.

 

L. WHITE

L. White is a certified NYC and NYS MWBE who provides consulting services to foster successful workplaces. They provide capacity-building services to individuals and agencies using a human-centered and inclusive framework to enhance workspaces and support staff. They specialize in talent development, employee engagement, leadership development, and workplace wellness.

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PROGRAM COMPONENTS

Core Skill Sessions

4 in person sessions, 6 hours each, with theory, skill development, and practice.

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Elective Skill Sessions

Choose 4 virtual sessions out of 9 offered, 90 minutes each, that delve deeper into leading effective nonprofits. These include additional sessions in core areas and include:

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Group Problem Solving

Leadership Academy participants will engage with industry experts during 90-minute small group sessions that build on content from core and elective sessions. Participants will apply skills learned in core & elective sessions to their work.

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Office Hours

Industry experts will be available for office hours by appointment for one-on-one support.

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Networking Opportunities

The Leadership Academy begins with a kickoff event with DYCD Commissioner Keith Howard and will culminate in a celebration with other nonprofit leaders. There will be many opportunities to build connections, share insights, and exchange ideas with peers and experts in inspiring environments.​

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HOW TO APPLY

Applicants will need to complete the DYCD Leadership Academy application to be considered. This is a competitive process. Applications will be evaluated by a selection committee. Prospective participants can apply either online or by emailing a completed PDF application. 

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Applications are due: Wednesday, February 5, 2025.

If you would like help completing this application or have any questions, please email rebecca@8RES.org.

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TIMELINE

  • Applications Open: January 21st, 2025

  • Applications Due: February 5, 2025

  • Acceptances Issued: February 13, 2025

  • Kick-off Event: Week of February 24, 2025 (exact date TBD)

  • In-Person Core Workshops: Fridays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.—March 7, April 4, May 2, June 6

  • Virtual Electives & Small Groups: Fridays, times will vary—March 13, 14, 21; April 11, 25; May 9, 16, 30

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