Fueling the Next Generation of Nashville Leaders.

IGNITE: A Political Leadership Bootcamp for Nashville's Future Leaders

At Empower Nashville, we believe that everyone deserves access to the tools needed to run for office and make a difference. We’re now accepting applications for the first-ever IGNITE Weekend Bootcamp, an intensive, hands-on training for:

  • Aspiring candidates

  • Campaign staff and volunteers

  • Civically engaged community members

Whether you're dreaming of running for office or want to run a winning campaign, IGNITE will give you the tools, strategy, and confidence to take the next step.

PROGRAM DATES

June 20–21, 2025

COST

Free for selected applicants

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Monday, June 2 at 5 PM

What You’ll Gain

Over two tracks—Candidate and Campaign Leader—participants will gain practical skills and personalized guidance from top local and national facilitators. You’ll walk away with:

  • A tactical campaign toolkit

  • A deeper understanding of Nashville’s political landscape

  • Resources to help you lead, organize, and win

  • A network of peers committed to student-centered change

IGNITE opens the door to a new generation of leaders ready to transform education and civic life in Nashville.

Who Should Apply?

This program is for anyone who:

Cares about public education and student-centered leadership

Has deep ties to their community

Is ready to step into public leadership or campaign roles

Believes politics should reflect and represent the people

We’re looking for a cohort that is diverse in race, profession, age, and experience.

What to Expect

This is a fast-paced, high-impact weekend. Participants are expected to:

  • Fully attend and participate in all sessions

  • Complete all assignments (e.g. surveys, reflections)

  • Stay connected with Empower Nashville’s network and future opportunities

You'll also gain access to our digital resource library and ongoing leadership community.

Sample Sessions

The Call to Public Leadership

Fundraising Fundamentals

Building Your Personal Brand

Demystifying Campaign Mechanics

The ABCs of Tennessee Education

About Empower Nashville

IGNITE is a program of Empower Nashville, a local initiative focused on building student-centered leadership that reflects the needs and values of our communities. We’re creating a pipeline of prepared candidates and campaign staff ready to step into action.