Regional Leadership Academy
The Northeast Florida Regional Leadership Academy, a program of the Northeast Florida Regional Council, brings together emerging and established leaders from across Northeast Florida to explore regional issues, build relationships, and strengthen collaboration across communities and sectors.
Through an immersive eight-session experience held throughout the region, participants gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges shaping Northeast Florida while building lasting professional connections.

Program Overview
The Regional Leadership Academy is designed to develop leaders who understand the power of regional collaboration.
Participants explore the economic, environmental, and social systems that shape Northeast Florida while building relationships with leaders across multiple sectors.
Program Highlights
- Eight in-person sessions held across Northeast Florida
- Regional tours and site visits
- Conversations with regional decision-makers and innovators
- Networking with leaders from multiple industries
- Opportunities to explore regional challenges and solutions
The Academy creates a space where leaders can learn together, share perspectives, and develop ideas that benefit the entire region.
Regional Community Institute (RCI)
Graduates of the Academy become part of a growing network of regional leaders who remain connected through ongoing initiatives and collaborations.
Many graduates continue their involvement through the Regional Community Institute, an alumni-driven program that works on policy-focused projects to improve the Northeast Florida region.
This network creates lasting relationships that support regional problem-solving and collaborative leadership.
Who Should Be Nominated
The Regional Leadership Academy is designed for individuals who are committed to making Northeast Florida a better place to live, work, and grow.
Participants come from a wide range of sectors, including:
The Regional Experience
Each class session focuses on a different dimension of the region.
Program Topics
- Economic development
- Environmental stewardship
- Regional infrastructure and transportation
- Healthcare and community well-being
- Education and workforce development
- Government collaboration and regional planning
Sessions are held throughout Northeast Florida, giving participants firsthand exposure to the communities, organizations, and assets that make the region unique.
Nominate to the Program
Applications for the next Regional Leadership Academy class are now open.
Participants are selected to create a diverse cohort representing industries, communities, and perspectives from across the region.
Time Commitment
Members of the Regional Leadership Academy are asked to participate in 8 program days from January-August on the last Wednesday of each month.