The Fellows Program is a comprehensive adult education program which includes both strategy and practical training on a variety of topics. For example, strategic focus is placed on self-assessments, ethics, and coalition building. Practical training includes public speaking, television and radio interviews, fundraising, polling, social media, budgets, and debates.

Participation in our programs is on the basis of leadership potential and commitment, without regard to age, race, ideology, or party affiliation.

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NCIOPL Fellows Program Strategy Training

NC IOPL Practical Training

STRATEGY TRAINING is built on self-assessments, ethics, and coalition building.

NCIOPL Fellows Program Practical Training

NC IOPL Strategy Training

PRACTICAL TRAINING includes public speaking, television and radio interviews, fundraising, polling, social media, budgets, and debates.

What is the IOPL Fellows Program?

The IOPL Fellows Program develops future political leaders at the municipal, county, and state levels of NC government. Each class brings together candidates who represent the geographic, political, racial, cultural, and socioeconomic diversity of the state.

Does IOPL have a partisan affiliation?

Participation in our programs is on the basis of leadership potential and commitment, without regard to age, race, ideology, or party affiliation.

When is the Fellows program offered?

IOPL hosts two classes of fellows each year: Spring and Fall

Who is eligible to apply?

Applications are open to community leaders who want to know how to run for public office, want to serve on local boards or appointed positions or are considering running for office in the future. It also can help current elected officials.

Who teaches classes?

The faculty of the IOPL Fellows program is comprised of the best experts that North Carolina has to offer in their fields. We strive for a diverse group of people that study and practice democracy in our state.

How many Fellows are accepted in each class?

Each cohort is made up of 10-20 North Carolinians.

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What does the Fellows program teach you?

Over the course of this 7-weekend program, Fellows receive interactive training from experts in:

  • Campaign Strategy
  • Working with the Media
  • Fundraising
  • Messaging
  • Campaign Finance
  • Ethics
  • Coalition Building
  • Public Speaking
  • State and Municipal Budgeting
  • Digital Media Strategy

What is the cost to attend?

The Fellows program requires a $1,400 financial commitment that is comprised of a $700 program fee and a $700 fundraising project, designed to give Fellows the experience of fundraising in a campaign setting. A deposit is due of $350 is due prior to orientation with the remaining balance due prior to graduation.

How do I apply?

Online applications are available at IOPL.org/apply.