Applications are Open for the 2026-2027 Class of Leadership Manatee
The Board of Governors of Leadership Manatee is excited to announce that applications are open for the 2026–2027 Leadership Manatee Class. A program of the Manatee Chamber Foundation in partnership with Bradenton Kiwanis, Leadership Manatee has served as the region’s premier leadership development program since 1982.
Now entering its 43rd year, the program is designed to identify and cultivate a diverse group of leaders, exposing them to the challenges and opportunities that shape life in Manatee County. With more than 1,500 graduates, Leadership Manatee has a long-standing legacy of inspiring civic engagement and community stewardship.
Class members participate in a series of immersive, full-day sessions throughout the program year, gaining in-depth knowledge across sectors such as education, local government, healthcare, agriculture, business, transportation, law enforcement, and more. The program helps hone leadership skills while encouraging participants to take an enhanced role in shaping the future of our community.
Participants are selected through a competitive application process. A key criterion for acceptance is a demonstrated commitment to community involvement and the potential for long-term impact.
Key Dates to Note:
Early Bird Deadline: Apply by April 27 at 4 PM to receive a $200 tuition discount.
Final Deadline: Applications close on May 15 at 4 PM.
The applications are now available on our website at ManateeChamber.com/LeadershipManatee
The 2026–2027 program will begin on Monday, August 24, and culminate with a graduation celebration on the evening of Wednesday, March 3, 2027.
For more information, please contact:
Debbie McDermott
Member Programs Director
Manatee Chamber of Commerce
Phone: 941-748-4842, ext. 117
Email: DebbieM@ManateeChamber.com
Thank You to Our Sponsors
The Leadership Manatee program is made possible thanks to the generous support of our 2026–2027 program sponsors:
HCA Florida Blake Hospital, Leadership Manatee Alumni Association, Mauldin & Jenkins, MCR Health, Tropicana Products, and Willis Smith Construction, Inc.
Their commitment to leadership development and community investment plays a vital role in the success of this program.
About the Manatee Chamber of Commerce
The Manatee Chamber of Commerce, a nationally recognized chamber of commerce with more than 2,200 member businesses and organizations representing over 75,000 employees, has offices in Bradenton and Lakewood Ranch to serve the greater Manatee County area. Its mission is to build a positive business environment while enhancing the community’s quality of life.