Applications for the 2026 LEAD Institute are now open and due by Wednesday, October 1, 2025.
An information session will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025 from 10–11 a.m. at the CFMC Monterey Conference Room, 2354 Garden Road, Monterey.
We recommend you discuss your goals and the commitment required to attend LEAD with your direct supervisor and/or affiliated community organizations. Nonprofits based in Santa Cruz, Monterey or San Benito Counties are eligible. LEAD Institute will accept one applicant per organization.
Successful candidates demonstrate:
We are committed to working with all accepted applicants and their organizations to coordinate tuition funding.
| Organization Budget Size | LEAD Tuition |
| All-volunteer organizations | $1,000 |
| < $500,000 | $1,500 |
| $500-999,999 | $1,800 |
| $1M-$5M | $2,100 |
| >$5M | $2,400 |
The Community Foundation for Monterey County understands the unique financial circumstances of each LEAD participant and nonprofit organization. We encourage all who could benefit from LEAD Institute to apply. Tuition is sliding-scale and need-based scholarships are available. LEAD Institute will accept one applicant per organization.Â
Community Foundation for Monterey County
Monterey Office
2354 Garden Road
Monterey, CA 93940
Salinas Office
945 South Main Street, Suite 207
Salinas, CA 93901
Home page background photos
courtesy of Chris Burnham
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