Signature Program

**Applications for our 2024 Signature Training Program are closed. Please check back for more information on the 2025 Signature Training Program**

Six months and 80 hours of training that gives Democratic self-identified women the skills they need to run and win. Please read through all of the information below in its entirety. It is important to have a complete understanding of the application process and training program before you apply.

Our Program

The Emerge Massachusetts training program is a unique opportunity for Democratic self-identified women who want to run for public office. It is the only in-depth, six-month, 80-hour training program that inspires candidates to run and gives them the tools to win. As a program member, you will be exposed to a variety of campaign and election experts. You will meet an array of dynamic women who hold elected and appointed office. Through Emerge, you are given specific opportunities to expand your political network. As an Emerge program member, you become a part of a supportive network which includes over 525 women trained in Massachusetts, a national network of Emerge alumnae, Emerge board, and advisory council members. Through this incredible sisterhood, you will feel prepared to run for office – just like the 56 Emerge MA alumnae on the ballot in 2023!

Our Curriculum

Participants meet one weekend a month for six months and receive comprehensive training on the following topics:

  • Public Speaking and Communication
  • Fundraising
  • Media and Messaging
  • Networking
  • Campaign Strategy
  • Field Operations
  • Labor and Endorsements
  • Social Media Platforms and Technology
  • Cultural Competency
  • Ethical Leadership

Currently, Emerge Massachusetts anticipates an entirely in-person format for the 2024 Signature Training Program. Should state and/or local department(s) of health recommend the restoration of COVID-19 protocols during the training program (ie. limiting the size of in-person gatherings, social distancing), Emerge Massachusetts will adjust the program accordingly (which may include a transition to hybrid or fully remote formats).

Who Should Apply?

Emerge Massachusetts seeks Democratic self-identified women who are committed to effective political leadership, are interested in running for elective office, and have:

  • Evidence of political leadership experience or potential and meaningful involvement in workplace or community
  • Interest in running for political office
  • Ability and desire to build effective networks
  • Ability to articulate a personal political vision
  • Commitment to full participation and attendance requirements of the trainings
  • Applicants must be self-identified women who are registered Democrats and who reside in the state of Massachusetts.

Emerge Massachusetts will select applicants from across the state who meet the above criteria and who we believe have the potential to be political leaders.

Emerge embraces diversity and encourages applications from all self-identified women regardless of age, race, color, national or ethnic origin, marital status, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, or physical ability. Our mission to build the bench of Democratic self-identified women ready to run acknowledges both systemic and historic barriers to running for office.

Who Trains?

Emerge trainers are comprised of a premiere team of campaign consultants, advisors, and staff from all over the country. Many of them have been involved in some of the most successful campaigns and initiatives we’ve seen in recent election cycles. They come from backgrounds that span over fundraising, direct mail, field strategy, communications, press management, and campaign messaging. They have won races from the City Council to the Governor’s Mansion.

Time Commitment

The success of the Emerge Massachusetts program depends upon commitment to the program’s entire schedule by each participant. Over the six-month period, approximately 80 program hours are scheduled. Some time outside of regularly scheduled trainings will be necessary for homework and training preparation.

While emergencies sometimes arise, attendance on the first day of training is mandatory and absence for any reason will result in a deferral to the following year. Please review the schedule below to ensure your availability to attend every training day.

Program Schedule

Trainings are held the first weekend of every month from January to June 2024. The schedule alternates between two days and one day of training per month. Trainings are held at a different location in Massachusetts every weekend.

Location(s): TBD

January – 6th (Saturday) & 7th (Sunday)

February – 3rd (Saturday)

March – 8th (Saturday) & 9th (Sunday)

April – 6th (Saturday)

May – 4th (Saturday) & 5th (Sunday)

June – 8th (Saturday) & 9th (Sunday) *Graduation is held on the 9th*

Program Cost

Tuition for the Emerge Massachusetts Signature Training Program is $1,250. Tuition covers all meals, access to top-notch trainers, all materials for the program, and a graduation ceremony. Payment plans are available. Emerge Massachusetts does not want to turn anyone away based on their ability to pay, and if you require financial assistance, you can request an alternative payment arrangement. 

Once accepted into the training, payment towards your tuition is required to secure your place in the program. Full tuition must be paid prior to the end of the calendar year of your program year, regardless of your completion of the program. All tuition payments and/or a payment plan must be received and/or in place by December 31st, 2023.  Failure to complete tuition payments will result in removal from the class and network.

Due to our 527 status, Emerge training program fees may not be waived for any participant who is (1) a candidate, (2) an employee or agent of a candidate, (3) an employee or agent of a party committee, or (4) an employee or agent of a political committee (e.g., a PAC or small donor committee).

If financial concerns are holding you back from completing your application, please reach out to contact@emergema.org.

Application Process

We encourage you to begin your application well in advance of the closing date due to the detailed nature of the application.

NEW Application Deadline = December 12, 2023

Interviews with selected applicants via Zoom = December 15 – 16, 2023

Class of 2024 announced = December 18th, 2023

Click here to apply = bit.ly/2024signature

Application Fee

A non-refundable application fee of $50 is required and must be submitted along with a completed application. The application fee can be paid online or by mailing a check payable to Emerge Massachusetts at PO Box 240016 Boston, MA 02124.

It’s Your Time

We need your participation to start a revolution! We are looking for self-identified women who are engaged in their communities and want to effect change. It doesn’t matter if you’re thinking of running for School Committee, Governor’s Council, or the U.S. Senate. We can help you get ready to run! Join us in making HERstory!

Recommend a Democratic self-identified woman!

If you know a Democratic self-identified woman who should apply for our Signature Program, please recommend them by filling out this short form! bit.ly/EMArecommendation 

Questions

If you have any questions or want to set up a call to chat about the program, please reach out to contact@emergema.org.