Emerging Leaders Program: Professional Development for Arts Administrators Grant

The Emerging Leaders Program by NYFA offers a year-long professional development opportunity for manager-level arts administrators in NYC. This program enhances leadership skills through workshops, peer-learning pods, and intensive retreats. Participants will engage in strategic career planning and receive support from experienced alumni. The program aims to empower arts leaders and is supported by The Willem de Kooning Foundation. It's open to those committed to their professional growth within the arts community.

About NYFA
We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit service organization that offers in-person and virtual arts programs, services, and opportunities, tailored to the needs of our creative community.
Emerging Leaders Program: Professional Development for Arts Administrators
NYFA’s original leadership training, this year-long program helps manager-level arts administrators from NYC and the surrounding area navigate the field and optimize their contributions to it. Preparing them for future advancement, the program focuses on management, coaching, and influencing skills that are critical for their central roles. The 2026 Emerging Leaders program was made possible with funding from The Willem de Kooning Foundation.
Opening Intensive
This five-day experience serves as a unique leadership retreat for participants to turn their focus towards their leadership practice and strategic career goals.
Peer-Learning Pods
Supported by program alumni who serve as Pod Advisors, participants gather virtually in bi-monthly pods to workshop leadership questions and provide peer support.
Virtual Workshops
Executive coaches lead bi-monthly workshops to cover the various skills manager-level leaders need to succeed.
Closing Intensive
Participants reconvene at the end of the year to mark their progress with their individual leadership goals, and chart their continuing career trajectory.
Alumni Lunch
Convened as a culminating event for the current cohort and kick-off for the next, alumni from all years are hosted annually to connect with each other.

Eligibility

Manager-level administrators in full-time employment by 501(c)3 arts and cultural organizations, managing at least one person at their organization. Commitment to attendance at all mandatory sessions. Open to participants from the five boroughs of New York City and Tri-State area within commuting distance of New York City.