Class of 2025–2026 | Applications Open Now Through May 23rd
Apply Now!
What is Grimes Leadership Academy?
Develop the Leader Within.
Grimes Leadership Academy (GLA) is a premier 9-month leadership experience designed for individuals who live, work, or serve in the Grimes area. Participants gain tools to grow as leaders in their workplaces and communities — while forming deep connections with others who share that same drive.
Why Join?
🧠 Leadership That Makes a Difference
GLA uses Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead as a foundation, helping participants:
- Lead with courage and authenticity
- Communicate more effectively
- Build trust and strong team dynamics
- Navigate conflict with empathy
- Create values-driven, inclusive cultures
🌱 Personal Growth and Coaching
Participants complete an Enneagram assessment and receive one-on-one coaching to better understand themselves and how they relate to others.
🌍 Local Knowledge, Real-World Impact
Through monthly themed sessions, participants gain a deeper understanding of Grimes — its history, economy, civic structure, and culture — and put leadership into practice through a group project that benefits the community.
🤝 Expand Your Network
With more than 75 hours of engagement, participants connect with peers, business leaders, and decision-makers — building relationships that last beyond the program.
Investment
Tuition: $1,400
Includes materials, meals, assessments, and professional coaching
Scholarship assistance available for nonprofit applicants
Built for Busy Professionals
Program runs September through May
One full-day session per month (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM)
Plus group project time outside of sessions
Topics include:
- Civic Engagement & Local Government
- Agriculture, Business & Entrepreneurship
- Economic Development & Finance
- Community Culture, Arts, & Media
- Regional Collaboration & Innovation
For Employers
GLA is a smart investment in leadership development. Graduates return to their organizations with:
- Stronger communication and collaboration skills
- A greater sense of purpose and accountability
- Community insights and valuable local relationships
- Motivation to lead with integrity and impact
Inaugural Class Success
The first GLA class (2023–2024) was a diverse group of professionals from across Grimes. Their group project created a lasting positive impact and helped set the standard for future cohorts. Many have taken on expanded leadership roles in their organizations and the community since graduating.
What Alumni Are Saying
“The GLA experience expanded my perspective, built my confidence as a leader, and connected me to amazing people. It was the best professional development decision I’ve made.”
— Inaugural Class Member, 2023–2024
“We’ve already seen the benefits of sending a staff member through the program. They came back energized, with new skills and relationships that are good for our business and our community.”
— GLA Corporate Sponsor
Ready to Lead?
Applications are now open for the Class of 2025–2026.
Spots are limited — don’t wait.
👉 Apply Today
Thank You to Our Generous Sponsors
We are proud to partner with local businesses who believe in developing leaders.
2025–2026 Sponsors includes:
Grimes Leadership Academy Implementation Team:
Brian Buethe
Halsey Scales
John Palmer
Ben Butzke
Greg Means
Clint Dudley
Jill Altringer
Jake Anderson
Tom Armstrong
Scott Carpenter
Erin Huiatt
Erin Lego
Aaron Chittenden