Leadership Investment in Action: Fueling Nonprofit Executive Leadership for Community Transformation

Up to $25,000 in general operating support. Year-long executive development. A powerful cohort experience.
If you are advancing change in Washington, DC communities east of the river, this opportunity is for you.

 Cohort 3 Expressions of Interest now open through Friday, February 27, 2026 at noon – apply here!

About the Chief Executive Leaders Ascend Program (CELAP)

The Chief Executive Leaders Ascend Program (CELAP) is a leadership investment model that strengthens both nonprofit organizations and the executives who lead them. CELAP recognizes that sustainable community impact requires healthy, prepared, and financially secure leaders, not just well-run institutions.

Serving nonprofit executives advancing change east of the river in Washington, DC, CELAP integrates grantmaking, executive development, organizational capacity building, and personal sustainability supports into one comprehensive experience.

Returning Core Investments (Proven Pillars of CELAP):

• Grantmaking – Up to $25,000 in general operating support to strengthen organizational sustainability
• Executive Leadership Development – Year-long cohort experience with structured learning sessions
• Capacity Building Programming – Organizational assessments and customized growth plans
• Wellness-Centered Support – Dedicated sessions focused on resilience, leadership stamina, and long-term sustainability

New & Expanded for Cohort 3:

• Organizational and Financial Health Strengthening – Expanded focus on long-term sustainability, including revenue diversification strategy, financial planning tools, and fiscal health benchmarks
• Personal Financial Health & Succession Planning – New supports designed to help leaders strengthen personal financial stability, prepare for long-term leadership transitions, and build lasting organizational continuity

Funders and Acknowledgments

The Center for Nonprofit Advancement thanks JPMorgan Chase, the Jane Bancroft Robinson Foundation, and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield for their commitment to strengthening nonprofit leadership and organizational sustainability in Wards 7 and 8.

Stay updated about the CELAP program by following the Center on social media platforms. Our handles are the following

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