APPLY TO LEADERSHIP SOUTH CAROLINA
Choose the experience that meets you where you are.
Both programs expand perspective, build meaningful relationships, and prepare leaders to serve South Carolina. The right path depends on your current experience and the kind of growth you are seeking.
ONE APPLICATION GATEWAY
Compare both programs first. Select your path when you are ready.
Your program choice is included with your application and can be discussed with the Leadership SC team.
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Compare programs
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Select your path
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Share your story
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Submit for review
WHICH PROGRAM FITS?
For established leaders ready to deepen their understanding of South Carolina through seven or eight statewide sessions from September through May.
You do not need to fit every description perfectly. Use these profiles as a guide, then choose the experience that best matches your current leadership journey.
FLAGSHIP STATEWIDE EXPERIENCE
Core Leadership Program
For established leaders ready to deepen their understanding of South Carolina through seven or eight statewide sessions from September through May.
2026-27 APPLICATIONS CLOSED
✓ You hold meaningful leadership responsibility
✓ You want a broad, statewide perspective
✓ You are prepared for an immersive cohort experience
FOCUSED GROWTH EXPERIENCE
Emerging Leaders
For professionals who have completed a chamber-level leadership program and are ready for five statewide sessions from January through May 2027.
APPLICATIONS OPEN THROUGH SEPTEMBER 1
✓ You completed a chamber-level or local leadership program
✓ You want expert-led leadership development
✓ You value statewide issues, peer learning, and mentorship
CORE PROGRAM · 2026-27
Know the commitment before you apply.
Most sessions run Wednesday through midday Friday. Virtual orientation and the September session are mandatory; one other session may be missed without penalty. Tuition includes conference materials, scheduled group meals, and lodging. Limited assistance is available.
APPLICATION WINDOW
January 1 - May 1 (Closed)
TUITION
$5,950 private
$4,950 public/nonprofit
CLASS DATES
August 28, 2026 · Virtual orientation
October 7-9 · Charleston / Seabrook Island
January 20-22, 2027 · Aiken / North Augusta
March 25 · State House
September 9-11 · Columbia
November 11-13 · Grand Strand
February 17-19 · Spartanburg
April 21-23 · Greenville
May 18, 2027 - Columbia, SC ~ GRADUATION CEREMONY
EMERGING LEADERS · 2027
A focused five-session statewide experience.
Each session begins late Wednesday afternoon or evening with networking, followed by a full-day Thursday class. Sessions combine leadership development with critical issues affecting South Carolina. Pre-session readings or assessments, optional mentorship or peer coaching, and post-session feedback support the experience. Early applications may be reviewed ahead of the deadline.
APPLICATION WINDOW
June 1 - September 1, 2026 · Open
TUITION
$3,000 private
$2,500 public/nonprofit
COHORT
Approximately 30 participants
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Limited assistance
available
PROPOSED CLASS DATES
January 27-28, 2027
March 17-18, 2027
February 24-25, 2027
April 28-29, 2027
May 12-13, 2027
Not completely sure?
Choose the program that feels closest to your current stage. Your application gives the Leadership South Carolina team context to help confirm the best fit before selection decisions are made.