Transform Your Leadership Journey with the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program
Unlock Your Leadership Potential in Southwest Florida's Premier Executive Development Experience
The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program isn’t just another professional development course—it’s your gateway to becoming part of an elite network of engaged community leaders who are shaping the future of Southwest Florida.
Why Leaders Choose Our Program
Exclusive Access to Community Decision-Makers
Go behind the scenes and discover “how things work” in our community. Through candid conversations and face-to-face discussions with local leaders, you’ll gain insights that aren’t available through any other venue. Our program opens doors to exclusive facilities and provides unprecedented access to the people who make the critical decisions affecting our region’s future.
Build Your Professional Network
Connect with like-minded professionals who share your commitment to community excellence. Our carefully selected cohort of up to 28 participants represents diverse industries, backgrounds, and experiences, creating networking opportunities that extend far beyond the program’s completion. These aren’t just professional contacts—they’re lifelong connections that will support your career and community involvement for years to come.
Comprehensive Leadership Development
Our structured, interactive program spans multiple weeks of intensive sessions covering the full spectrum of community leadership:
- Team Building & Self-Development – Strengthen your leadership foundation.
- Nonprofit & Volunteerism – Understand the community service landscape.
- Healthcare – Explore critical health system challenges and opportunities.
- Education – Dive deep into educational priorities and initiatives.
- Tourism & Economic Development – Understand key economic drivers.
- Environment & Water Quality – Address sustainability challenges.
- Government Operations – See local government in action.
- Small and Large Business – Explore development and growth patterns.
- Media & Communications – Understand information flow in our community.
- Arts & Entertainment – Appreciate cultural contributions to community vitality.
Individual Benefits That Advance Your Career
Professional Growth: Gain the leadership skills and community knowledge that distinguish you as a well-rounded executive capable of broader responsibilities.
Enhanced Confidence: Build self-assurance in your leadership abilities through hands-on experiences and peer interaction.
Strategic Perspective: Develop a deeper understanding of how business, government, and community organizations interconnect to drive regional success.
Career Advancement: Position yourself for leadership opportunities by demonstrating your commitment to community engagement and professional development.
Organizational Benefits That Drive Business Success
Leadership Pipeline Development: Invest in your team’s future by providing them with comprehensive leadership training that extends beyond traditional business skills.
Community Recognition: Demonstrate your organization’s commitment to developing future leaders, enhancing your reputation as a company that cares about community development.
Employee Retention: Show your investment in employee growth, increasing engagement and loyalty among your top performers.
Strategic Relationships: Your organization benefits from the expanded network and community connections your participant develops.
Program Structure & Commitment
Class Size: Limited to 28 participants through competitive selection.
When: Wednesdays from August through November.
Commitment: Full attendance required (no more than 16 hours of absences).
Investment: $1,250 for Chamber Members | $1,700 for Non-Members.
Who Should Apply
We seek individuals who demonstrate:
- Administrative or supervisory authority in their organization.
- Commitment to serving the Fort Myers area.
- Policy-shaping responsibility or leadership position.
- Dedication to volunteerism and community involvement.
- Ability to commit fully to program requirements.
Your Application Matters
Our competitive selection process ensures each class represents the best emerging and established leaders from across our community. We look for individuals who will not only benefit from the program but will also contribute meaningfully to class discussions and future community leadership.
Take the Next Step
The Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program is more than professional development—it’s an investment in your future, your organization’s success, and our community’s prosperity. Join the ranks of alumni who are actively shaping Southwest Florida’s future while advancing their own careers and expanding their influence.
Applications for the 2025 Leadership Fort Myers Class are now open!
Ready to transform your leadership journey? The program kicks off with a meet and greet on August 19th, followed by our first Team Building session on August 20th. Graduation celebration is scheduled for November 19th.
Contact the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce today to begin your application process and take your place among Southwest Florida’s most engaged community leaders.
The program fosters leadership development through interactive programs and activities that encourage community involvement, broaden knowledge, and build leadership skills. The 2025 Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program kick-off is the evening of August 19th with a meet and greet of the 2025 class. Program sessions begin on August 20th with a Team Building Day and runs on consecutive Wednesdays, with the exception of a few bye weeks, through November 13th. Graduation is scheduled for the evening on November 19th. Topics include (in no particular order): Education & Workforce Development, Nonprofit & Community Service, First Responder & Law Enforcement, Community Involvement/Government, Sustainability Environmental, Health and Human Services, Economic Development & Tourism, and Team Building/Communication.
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