Emerging Leaders Initiative
About the Program
The TAG Emerging Leaders Initiative (ELI) is designed to help cultivate the next generation of technology leaders in philanthropy. Through a series of coaching, mentorship pairing, and educational opportunities, Emerging Leaders are provided with the expertise and skills needed to advance in their careers.
Please note that this program is available to current TAG members only.
Not a member? Consider joining TAG today.
2025 Application for Emerging Leaders is Now Closed
The deadline to apply was July 21, 2024 at 11:59 PM ET for current TAG members. Please see the timeline below for more information on the 2026 application.
Please note that acceptance into the program isn’t guaranteed, as it will be based on our ability to secure enough mentors of relevant fit for this year’s emerging leaders.
2025 Application for Mentors is Now Closed
The deadline to apply was August 30, 2024 at 11:59 PM ET for interested TAG members.
“The TAG Program was truly a continuous learning experience. I increased my knowledge about managing my brand, defining my leadership skills, understanding culture, and understanding power relations. Most importantly, I was able discuss these topics with my mentor in person, over the phone, or in email.”
Meet Our ELI Alumni
Since 2016, rising stars in philanthropy have participated in the Emerging Leaders Initiative.
Interested in Applying to be an Emerging Leader?
Are you new to philanthropy or seeking a mentor to bolster your soft skills or technology strategy approach?
The TAG Emerging Leader Initiative (ELI) is an excellent way to build your network and grow your professional capacity. Hallmarks of the initiative include:
- Pairing with a mentor who is a seasoned philanthropy professional.
- Access to curated learning materials.
- A community of peers within the Emerging Leader cohort.
- Opportunity for in-person ELI events.
Interested in Being a Mentor?
Are you a seasoned IT professional in philanthropy? We want you!
The application to become a 2025 mentor is now closed. However, if you are interested in becoming a mentor in 2026, or have questions, please reach out to the Program Director, Emerging Leaders Initiative.
Mentoring a TAG Emerging Leader is a rich and rewarding way to give back to the community and cultivate our next generation of leaders. As a mentor, you will act as a sounding board for soft-skills growth, while at other times, you might offer advice related to technology strategy or systems implementation.
In order to be considered, we ask that you embrace the core tenets of the ELI program: honesty, trust, integrity, respect, patience, and confidentiality.
How the Program Works
Key Deadlines for 2026 Cohort
- June 2025: Applications for Emerging Leaders and Mentors opens. Nominate yourself!
- July 2025: Applications for Emerging Leaders closes at 11:59 PM ET.
- August 2025: All applicants will be notified about their acceptance in the program. Applications for Mentors closes.
- Q4 2025: Emerging Leaders announced.
For more information, please contact the ELI Program Director.
Please note: Acceptance into the program isn’t guaranteed, as it will be based on our ability to secure enough mentors of relevant fit for this year’s emerging leaders.
The Process
- 12 Emerging Leaders are selected by the TAG Emerging Leaders Initiative Committee based on need and our ability to match you with a suitable mentor.
- Mentors are to be solicited based on their experience, professional accomplishments, and enthusiasm to participate in the program.
- Emerging Leaders and Mentors are to be matched by the Mentoring Committee. Mentors are recruited to match Mentees’ goals and requirements.
- The ELI program runs for each calendar year. Mutual expectations and benefits are defined and agreed to by the Emerging Leader and Mentor at the beginning of the relationship. Together, they set the content of their ongoing agenda. It is suggested that Emerging Leaders and Mentors meet at least once per month in person or by video conference. Additional educational opportunities will be provided for Emerging Leaders as part of the program.
- Feedback and self-reflection are important components of the learning and development process of the program for both Emerging Leaders and Mentors. Quarterly evaluation will be required.
Resources
The TAG Emerging Leaders Program Handbook is available to download.
Program Funders
TAG’s Emerging Leaders Initiative is made possible thanks to the generosity of our Institutional and Sector Steward member organizations, as well as to our Sustaining Sponsor, Submittable.
