From Personal Leadership to Collective Impact
Through an intensive first-year Fellowship and ongoing support via the LEADS Network, we create the foundation for systems-level change by fostering Trusting Relationships, a Shared Understanding of Community Challenges, and a Framework for Collective Action.
LEADS is more than a program—it’s a catalyst for impact.
Who We Are
LEADS is a game-changing nonprofit hard at work in Massachusetts Gateway Cities. LEADS believes that lasting impact can only be made through the collaborative efforts of trusted local leaders who are uniquely qualified to identify deeply rooted challenges, engage community members, and build community-owned, systems-level solutions. These local leaders are at the heart of Gateway Cities, which, despite persistent social and economic challenges, are rich with diversity, a young workforce, cultural assets, and vibrant communities—making them the perfect focus for investment.
Through a highly tested 10-month Fellowship program facilitated by world-renowned systems change and leadership experts, LEADS equips leaders with the skills, networks, and frameworks they need to address any kind of system change or crisis at a moment’s notice. Fellowship graduates join the LEADS Network of over 250 cross-sector leaders, accelerating transformational change and unlocking opportunity across the Commonwealth.
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Our Mission
LEADS activates local leaders to advance community transformation, together. Through world-class educational programming, a proven entrepreneurial framework, and collaborative, trusting relationships, LEADS catalyzes business, civic and non-profit leaders to address pressing local issues.
What We Do
Fellowship​
In a rigorous 10-month Leadership Development program, we curate a cross-sectoral, regional cohort and equip leaders with the knowledge and skills to drive innovation in their communities.
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The Fellowship cultivates relationships that transcend organizational boundaries and incubates actionable ideas for addressing pressing community issues.
Network​
​Fellowship graduates join the LEADS Network, a dynamic platform ensuring the continuity of ideas and relationships. The Network builds bridges across cohorts, geographies, and regions, forming a broader, interconnected community of leaders. LEADS supports Network Members by offering ongoing leadership development, project assistance, and networking opportunities.
