Apply to the LGC Signature Fellows Program

Apply Now

The application for the LGC Signature Fellows Program Class of 2027 is NOW OPEN. It will close on March 2, 2026. Candidates must complete an online application, which includes two required letters of recommendation.

LGC is committed to accessibility and provides reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities (visible, invisible, or acquired). To request an accommodation, please email our team at programs@lgcchicago.org to ensure full participation in the application process.

About the LGC Signature Fellows Program

Since 1985, over 1,400 of Chicago’s top leaders have completed the LGC Signature Fellows Program. For more than 40 years, the program has cultivated diverse, transformational civic leaders dedicated to shaping the future of the Greater Chicago region.

Who Should Apply?

LGC Fellows represent the broad diversity of Chicago, spanning corporate, nonprofit, government, education and entrepreneurial sectors. The ideal candidate is:

  • Collaborative, innovative, and action-oriented
 
  • Creative and humble
 
  • Committed to personal responsibility and integrity

LGC welcomes candidates of all backgrounds, embracing diversity in race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, age, marital status, ancestry, disability, and veteran status.

Eligibility Criteria

Ideal candidates will:

  • Live or work in the Greater Chicago region
  • Have been in their current professional position for at least one year as of the program start date
  • Be nominated and supported by a sponsoring organization and a second nominator
  • Demonstrate leadership potential and growth capacity in their career
  • Have a track record of civic engagement and a passion for addressing major regional issues
  • Commit fully to the LGC Signature Fellows Program
  • Be between the ages of 30-45

Candidates MUST be able to Attend

  • The 2026 Recognition Ceremony (Thursday, July 30, 2026) and 2027 Recognition Ceremony (Wednesday, August 4, 2027)
  • Opening Retreat, September 17-18, 2026 and Closing Retreat, June 3-4, 2027 (Overnight, accommodations provided)
  • Eight (8) all-day Friday Sessions (October 2026 – May 2027) listed below:
    • October 16, 2026
    • November 6, 2026
    • December 3 & 4, 2026 (Thursday & Friday; not overnight)
    • January 8, 2027
    • February 5, 2027
    • March 5, 2027
    • April 9, 2027
    • May 7, 2027
  • The Class Mid-Year Dinner (January 20, 2027)
  • Four (4) of the six (6) monthly Leadership Series sessions (once a month, some in-person and some virtual); October 2026 – May 2027)
  • Active engagement and participation in supplemental programming, including Neighborhood Exploration Groups, site visits, cultural events and social activities

Want to Learn More?

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Questions?

For inquiries about the LGC Signature Fellows Program or the application process, contact us at: programs@lgcchicago.org.