Strong leadership is essential for nonprofits to thrive and serve their communities effectively. OneSource Center created the Emerging Leader Award to recognize talented nonprofit professionals who demonstrate exceptional promise and a commitment to strengthening the nonprofit sector.
The award reflects OneSource Center’s belief that the nonprofit community benefits when leadership pathways are open to individuals with diverse experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds. By investing in emerging leaders, we help ensure that the next generation of nonprofit leadership reflects the communities our organizations serve.
The Emerging Leader Award provides a full scholarship for the selected honoree to participate in the EXCEL Executive Leadership Program, including one year of executive coaching.
EXCEL, offered through the Nonprofit Leadership Institute (NLI), is a nine-month leadership development program designed for nonprofit executive directors and senior managers who are preparing to take on greater leadership responsibility. Through a cohort learning model, professional coaching, and practical management training, participants strengthen their leadership skills and return to their organizations better equipped to guide their teams and expand their impact.
Eligibility Criteria for OneSource Center’s Emerging Leader Award:
NOTE: Candidates should be nominated by a supervisor, mentor, peer or other individual close to the candidate being nominated. This is not an application process, but rather an opportunity for those who see leadership qualities in others to nominate them for this award and recognition.
Candidates must:
- Be a senior management level employee who has the potential for advancing to more challenging leadership roles.
- Have obtained an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree or higher level of education.
- Have demonstrated strong leadership skills.
- Is perceived by the nominator as having emerging skills and talents to advance to a higher level of leadership.
- Help broaden the range of perspectives and experiences represented in nonprofit leadership.
Selection Process:
- Nomination deadline is May 31, 2026.
- A selection panel will review nominations and select the recipient for the award.
- The honoree will be identified by June 5 and must complete the required EXCEL program application by June 15, 2026.
- The selected recipient must meet EXCEL enrollment criteria including a commitment to attend each of the 10 full-day sessions (Learn more here)