LEADERSHIP ST. PETE
As one of the oldest leadership programs of its kind in the nation, Leadership St. Pete (LSP) seeks to nurture a community brimming with informed, passionate leaders. Each year, we select a diverse array of individuals spanning various industries and career stages to embark on an immersive six-month journey. Our program offers a behind-the-scenes look at the most challenging issues and opportunities facing our region while equipping participants with the knowledge, resources, and networks to shape our city's future.
Class members build lasting relationships throughout the program’s three elements: leadership training, educational seminars, and a civic-engagement project.
Now Accepting Applications for the LSP Class of 2026
Submit your application for the Leadership St. Pete Class of 2026 here. Applications are due by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, September 22, 2025.
To help you prepare, please stay tune for our blog post coming out next week to learn more about the application and selection process.
LSP candidates must do business or live in the St. Petersburg area and be at least 22 years of age at the time of signing their application. Additionally, they must have the full support of the organization they represent due to the time commitment.
The LSP Community Project
The Community Project is a cornerstone of the LSP experience. Each year, the LSP class partners with a nonprofit to rehab a space in need of some tender loving care.
The LSP Class of 2025 selected Infinite Potential Learning Academy (IPLA) for its project, Play It Forward—upgrading the school’s basketball court, multi-purpose field, playground, and more to benefit students and the local community.
We are now accepting applications for the 2026 LSP Community Project, Apply Here
Our commitment to St. Pete extends beyond the duration of our program. LSP alumni have access to ongoing educational opportunities, exclusive events, and a strong network for continued growth.
Follow @leadershipstpete
Upcoming Events
- LSP Info Session #1: Thursday, August 14 - 12pm - 1pm - ARK Innovation
- LSP Info Session #2: Wednesday, August 20 - 5:30pm - 6:30pm - Power Design Inc.
- LSP Info Session #3: Wednesday, August 27 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm - Enoch Davis Center
- LSP Info Session #4: Friday, September 5 - 8:30am - 9:30am - SPC Gibbs - Student Success Conference Center
- LSP Info Session #5: Wednesday, September 10 - 8:30am - 9:30am - SPC Downtown - Room DT-255
- LSP Recruitment Social: Wednesday, September 17 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm - Bayboro Brewing Co
LSP Class of 2026
Nominate a Candidate
Nominate a candidate or yourself for the LSP Class of 2026; submit the nomination form.
Nominate a Nonprofit
If you are an interested 501(c)(3) organization or want to nominate a deserving nonprofit to be the LSP Class of 2026 Community Project beneficiary, submit the nomination form.
2026 Program Schedule
- Orientation Dinner: December 4, 2025
- Opening Retreat: January 9-10, 2026
- Community Project Kickoff Meeting (Optional): January 15
- St. Pete History Seminar: January 22
- Community Project Scope Meeting (Optional): January 29
- State Gov. Seminar (2 nights, 3 days): February 2-4
- Environmental Sustainability Seminar: February 18
- Education Seminar: March 3
- Mid-Year Retreat (full day): March 12
- St. Pete Culture Seminar: March 25
- Growing St. Pete Seminar: April 8
- Criminal Justice Seminar: April 22
- Local Gov. Seminar/Sponsorship Reception: May 6
- Community Project Day: May 16
- Closing Retreat (full day): May 29
- Graduation: June 4
- Community Project Ribbon Cutting: TBD
From the LSP Blog
Leadership St. Pete is made possible thanks to the generous support of our Patron Sponsors:
