Candidate Trainings

Leadership, Education, and Development (LEAD)

You want to make a difference in your community—but first, you have to get elected. GLPA's LEAD Candidate Training Program is here to help future changemakers like you map out a clear path to success. Our program equips current and prospective candidates with the skills needed to run effective campaigns, from crafting your message and earning votes to fundraising and managing resources. Offered at a low cost, these trainings empower you to turn your vision into action and make a real impact in your state or local community.

Becoming a LEADer:

Our one-day candidate bootcamps, held monthly at various locations across the state, provide foundational training for progressive candidates. These Campaign 101-style sessions cover essential topics including:

  • Fundraising

  • Messaging

  • Campaign Compliance

  • Field strategies

Whether you’re considering a run for school board, city council, county commission, state legislature, or another office, these trainings are designed to set you up for success.

Taking the LEAD:

Launching in 203, our Taking the LEAD webinar training series offers an in-depth exploration of the skills needed to run a professional campaign. These 201-style sessions are perfect for candidates aiming to refine their strategies. Topics include:

  • Managing call time

  • Crafting compelling fundraising asks

  • Engaging with voters

  • Honing your message

  • Developing a comprehensive campaign plan

This series is tailored for candidates pursuing local or state-level offices, from school board to state legislature.

LEAD for Justice:

Our candidate recruitment and training program focused on providing current and future judicial candidates mentorship opportunities and training on how to navigate the judicial appointment process and how to run a successful judicial campaign. LEAD for Justice trainings are offered throughout the year. The next full 5-week LEAD for Justice webinar program will be held in fall of 2025.

LEAD the Future:

Our candidate recruitment and training curriculum specifically for school board candidates. LEAD the Future trainings are available to those who are planning to run for school board or want to support school board campaigns. This individual one-day trainings are held virtually.

Interested in Running?

If you live in Michigan, share progressive values, and are ready to bring your unique perspective to elected office, GLPA-LEAD wants to connect with you!

Click the button below, provide your information, and discover what offices are open in your area. A member of our team will reach out to discuss your next steps.

Routine elections in 2025 include City Mayor and City Council. Routine elections in 2026 include State Senate, State Representative, School Board, City Council, and Judicial seats.