2025 Leadership Sacramento class. Photo courtesy of Metro Chamber Foundation

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - As of Sept. 3, applications are officially open for the 2026 Leadership Sacramento class. Established in 1985, Leadership Sacramento is proud to be celebrating 40 years (and counting) of shaping leaders and strengthening communities across the Capital Region.

Leadership Sacramento is an interactive, year-long program that informs and educates community-minded business and civic leaders on issues shaping our economy. Each month, the class explores a new subject, with sessions designed to deepen participants’ knowledge, demonstrate the subject’s impact on the region, and provide connections that lead to immediate community action. The program culminates in the completion of a community betterment project benefiting a local nonprofit. Over the past 10 years alone, the classes have invested nearly $2.7 million in local community organizations.

Each year, 40 motivated individuals are selected to move through the program together as a cohort. Every class day is chaired by alumni who are subject matter experts, and the program itself is chaired by two alumni co-chairs. The 2026 program will be chaired by Kelley Lincoln, Shareholder and Attorney at Boutain Jones, Leadership Sacramento Class of 2008.

“Four decades strong, Leadership Sacramento is a legacy building program that results in lasting impacts that are incredibly positive and powerful,” said Robert Heidt, President & CEO of the Sacramento Metro Chamber of Commerce. “This community service program offers a unique, behind-the-scenes view of issues affecting the region that is designed to cultivate our future leaders through thoughtful collaboration and inspired learning. We encourage interested changemakers to become part of this leadership give-back program to affect change, build their network, and make a difference in the region.”

With more than 1,300 alumni, the Leadership Sacramento network is wide-reaching and influential. Participants gain invaluable personal and professional development opportunities, engage directly with business and civic leaders, and create lifelong connections across diverse industries.

“Leadership Sacramento is more than a program—it’s a transformational experience that exposes leaders to the tools, relationships, and perspective to create real change in our community,” said Kelley Lincoln, 2026 Program Chair. “As we look ahead, I’m honored to help guide the next class through this journey of growth, collaboration, and service.”

The deadline to apply for Leadership Sacramento is Oct. 15; there is a $150 application fee and tuition pending admittance into the program. For applications and/or more information about Leadership Sacramento, visit www.metrochamber.org/leadership-sacramento/.

The Sacramento Metro Chamber Foundation creates equitable paths to leadership, community development, and employment for people in business. Connected to the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, the Metro Chamber Foundation facilitates five programs and supports the growth of leaders in El Dorado, Placer, Sacramento, Sutter, Yolo, and Yuba counties. For more information, please visit https://metrochamber.org/foundation/.