Leadership Sidney

Founded in 1998, Sidney Area Leadership Program is designed to develop the leadership potential within our community. Sidney Area Leadership Program brings together individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences with demonstrated talent and commitment . The program offers these selected individuals a unique opportunity to explore the resources of their community and the impact of social and economic changes on the Sidney area.

What to Expect

Leadership Sidney is a nine-month professional development program designed to elevate emerging and established leaders within local businesses. This immersive experience connects participants with the Sidney area through business tours, community service projects, and networking opportunities, all led by knowledgeable local presenters.

Unlike traditional leadership training, Leadership Sidney is not about discovering leadership potential — it’s about sharpening the skills of those already leading. The curriculum focuses on critical thinking, effective communication, and essential management techniques that drive organizational and community success.

In addition to skill-building, Leadership Sidney serves as a collaborative think tank — encouraging participants to explore and address real-time community needs through discussion, problem-solving, and project-based learning. Participants will leave the program with a stronger understanding of Sidney’s economic landscape, a deeper connection to fellow professionals, and refined tools to lead with purpose and impact.

Tuition

$400/Participant (Chamber members save $100!)

Tuition helps offset the cost of meals, speaker expenses, administrative fees, and supplies necessary to run the program. Participants are encouraged to ask their employer to sponsor their tuition fees in return for the skills and knowledge they will bring back to the workplace. Participants are provided all class materials along with tangible take-aways including a headshot.

Commitment

Those selected to the program will attend seven Issue Days between September and April from 8:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Each issue day is held in Sidney and includes a combination of lectures, panel discussions, small groups and field excursions. In addition, class participants will participate in other enrichment activities: the Chamber Banquet, a School Board meeting, a City /Town Council meeting, attend a board meeting for a board they are not active in, and volunteer at a Chamber event. A full schedule of times, places, obligations and other details will be sent to all successful candidates.