Future Candidates Cohort

By the end of the program, you’ll have:

Stronger grounding in your values and leadership “why”: Reflect on your lived experience, clarify what motivates you to lead, and articulate the values that will guide your future run.


The beginnings of a public voice and presence: Learn how to start building visibility in ways that feel authentic and begin shaping a narrative rooted in who you are and what you care about.


Clear ways to start showing up in your community: Identify meaningful opportunities to engage locally, deepen relationships, and build trust before you ever ask for votes.


Greater clarity on which offices may be a good fit over time: Explore different types of local and state offices and assess how they align with your interests, capacity, and long-term goals.


A personalized development plan for the years ahead: Leave with a realistic roadmap for preparing over the next few years — strengthening your leadership, expanding your network, and laying the groundwork for a future candidacy.

Participants are expected to:

  • Complete weekly reflection and action assignments
  • Attend all live weekly sessions
  • Participate actively and thoughtfully

Knowing you want to run for office someday can feel exciting and isolating. You care deeply about your community, but you also know that running well takes more than passion. It takes preparation, relationships, and clarity about who you are, what you stand for, and how you want to lead.


That’s where this cohort comes in.


The Future Candidates Cohort is a free, 4-week, live virtual program for young progressives and independents who want to prepare thoughtfully now so they can run with confidence later. You’ll build clarity, deepen your sense of purpose, and connect with peers who are also laying the groundwork for future leadership.


Program details

  • March 4–25, 2026
  • Once a week · 90 minutes
  • Live · Virtual · Free

Participation is application-based.


Applications open: January 19, 2026
Deadline: February 16, 2026

Session 1: Wed., March 4 at 8:00-9:30pm ET
Session 2: Wed., March 11 at 8:00-9:30pm ET
Session 3: Wed., March 18 at 8:00-9:30pm ET
Session 4: Wed., March 25 at 8:00-9:30pm ET


This cohort is for people who:

  • Know they want to run for local or state office someday
  • Are planning toward a run in 2027, 2028, or later
  • Are 40 years old or younger
  • Want to prepare thoughtfully before launching a campaign
  • Align broadly with Run for Something’s progressive values

If you are actively running or preparing to launch now, we encourage you to instead apply for a Run For Something endorsement and join our Ready to Run training program hosted in our online community.


If you have any questions or need assistance, please email us at [email protected] with subject line “RFS Training Cohort.”

Is there any cost to participate?
No. This program is free of charge for all participants.

What happens if I have to miss a session due to work or caregiving responsibilities?
We ask that participants attend all sessions and will give priority to applicants who are able to attend all sessions. However, if you can attend at least 3 of the sessions, we still very much encourage you to apply.

Will sessions be recorded or is live attendance required?
Live attendance is required as active participation is a key to making the most of the program. Sessions will not be recorded to ensure the privacy and safety of program participants.


How is this cohort different from self-paced Future Candidates materials on Mighty Networks? If I’ve completed the Future Candidates training already, should I apply for this cohort as well?
This live training cohort is based on the materials and curriculum in the Future Candidates training track in Run For Something’s online community. However, this live training will incorporate peer connection and discussion sessions with former candidates. If you’ve completed the training already, you may find the material to be redundant.

What happens after the four weeks end?
As a graduate of the Future Candidates training, you will have the opportunity to stay connected with your fellow peers and have continued access to Run For Something’s resources.