Apply To the Fellows Program

IOPL welcomes applicants from across North Carolina and across the political spectrum.

Strong applicants often include:

• People considering a future run for local, state, or federal office
• Current or future appointees to boards and commissions
• Nonprofit, business, education, faith, military, and community leaders
• Campaign, policy, government affairs, and civic professionals
• People who care deeply about North Carolina and want to serve more effectively

Many Fellows enter the program knowing they want to run for office. Others are exploring public service, preparing for board or commission service, working in nonprofits or advocacy, or looking for a deeper understanding of how leadership works in North Carolina.

What matters most is not whether you already have a campaign plan.

What matters is your commitment to public service, your willingness to learn, and your interest in leading with integrity.

As an IOPL Fellow, you will practice the skills public leaders actually use:

• Communicating your values and vision clearly
• Speaking with confidence in public and on camera
• Understanding campaigns, fundraising, and voter engagement
• Building coalitions across differences
• Navigating ethical challenges and conflict
• Learning how decisions are made in North Carolina
• Joining a statewide alumni network of public servants and civic leaders

The Fellows Program combines classroom sessions, practical exercises, simulations, peer feedback, and conversations with experienced North Carolina leaders.

Fellows practice public speaking, media interviews, fundraising, coalition-building, and decision-making in a supportive but challenging environment.

The Fellows Program requires a $1,400 financial commitment.

This includes:

• A $700 program fee
• A $700 fundraising project

The fundraising project is part of the learning experience. Fellows practice making a clear ask, explaining the value of public leadership, and building support around a civic purpose.

A $350 deposit is due before orientation, with the remaining balance due before graduation.

If cost is a concern, we encourage you to contact IOPL before deciding not to apply.

1. Complete the online application.
2. Ask two people who know your leadership, character, or public service potential to submit recommendation letters.
3. Once your application materials are complete, selected finalists will be contacted for a brief interview.
4. Applicants will be notified of admissions decisions before the cohort begins.

Recommendation letters should be addressed to the NCIOPL Selection Committee and sent directly to Brad Young at byoung@iopl.org.