Grundy Chamber Leadership Accelerator

Invest in your team.  Build leaders.

About the Leadership Accelerator

GCLA is a premier professional development program designed to cultivate informed, connected, and engaged leaders within our business and civic community.

Through a structured series of interactive sessions, participants gain firsthand insight into the key sectors that shape our region.

GCLA brings together emerging and established professionals who are committed to personal growth, community involvement, and long-term regional success. Participants strengthen leadership skills, expand their networks, and develop a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Grundy County.

The Chamber’s Leadership Accelerator prepares participants to take on meaningful leadership roles in their organizations and community—now and
in the future.

Additional Details

  • Meetings

    2nd & 4th Thursdays meeting mostly from 8:30am to 12:00pm
    March - August (No July sessions)
    Locations throughout Grundy.

  • Session Topics

    • Leadership enhancement 3/12/26
      • Caitlin Pusateri, Rockford Chamber COO & owner of Bright Light Coaching
    • County tour by officials 3/26/26
    • Grundy historical experience 4/9/26
    • Civic leadership 4/23/26
    • Education & Nonprofit vision 5/7/26
      • JJC President Dr. Clyne Namuo
    • Leadership in Healthcare 5/21/26
      • Morris Hospital President & CEO Tom Dohm
    • Manufacturing in Grundy 6/4/26
    • Entrepreneurship 6/18/26
    • Legislators Chat 8/4/26
      • Sen. Rezin, Sen. Balkema, Rep. Bunting, & Rep. Haas all scheduled to be present
    • Graduation TBD

  • Eligibility

    The Chamber will accept 10 participants this year. All applications must be submitted by Friday, February 13th at 4 p.m.

    • Complete form in its entirety
    • Make sure you can attend required dates
    • Email any questions or concerns to christina@grundychamber.com with the subject line GCLA Application.

    Eligibility & Selection Criteria:

    • Leadership Accelerator is suggested for individuals who are on a path to or have reached a leadership role in their organization. Both up and coming and established professionals are welcome. Required selection criteria includes:
      • Commitment to serving Grundy County
      • Has the potential for and interest in advancing in a leadership role
      • Active involvement in business, education, government, religion, the arts and/or community based-organizations
      • Representation from a cross-section of the area
      • Willingness to collaborate on a team-based project
      • Ability to attend all sessions of GCLA. Those who do not attend all may be asked to withdraw from the program with no refund
Class of 2026 Application
Sponsorship Flyer
Leadership-Accelerator-app-updated-(1)_page-0001

Presenting Sponsors

Accelerator Circle Sponsors

Sponsor Our Leaders

  • Accelerator Champion (Presenting Sponsor Exclusive) $1,500 SOLD

    • First session location host
    • Opportunity to present
    • Option to send participant
    • Logo on all marketing materials and media
    • Website & social media marketing
    • Chamber Chatter (Live) shoutout

  • Accelerator Partner (2 available) $1,000

    • Graduation sponsor with signage at event
    • Graduation welcome or conclusion presenter (first come first serve)
    • Logo on all marketing materials
    • Website & social media marketing
    • Chamber Chatter (Live) shoutout

  • Accelerator Advocate $500

    • Logo on all session materials
    • Listing on all marketing materials
    • Website & social media mentions
    • Chamber Chatter (Live) shoutout

  • Accelerator Circle $250

    • Listed graduation gift sponsor
    • Opportunity to add item to gift
    • Website & social media mentions
    • Chamber Chatter (Live) shoutout

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