You Should Run!
Applications for IWIL Training Academy’s Class of 2027 are now open!
The deadline for applications is Tuesday, November 10, 2026 at 11:59 pm CT. If you have any questions, please contact info@iwiltrainingacademy.org.
You must follow the steps below to apply. Only complete applications will be considered. It is incumbent upon applicants to ensure all supplemental materials are received by the deadline. If you are re-applying, you must provide a new application and submit new letters of recommendation.
To apply, please complete the application form through the link below.
Click here to complete the application form.
The form will require you to submit the following materials:
- A general application questionnaire
- Four short essays
- A current resume in PDF format and no longer than two pages
- A recent high-resolution headshot or photograph of yourself in JPG or PNG format
Lastly, please secure two (2) signed letters of recommendation, one of which must be from a Democratic elected official, a Democratic Party official or a Labor leader. We discourage letters of recommendation from family members and business partners. Letters must be sent directly to IWIL Training Academy at the address provided below by the person making the recommendation. Letters may also be scanned and sent directly to the email address below. Emailed letters must be in a Word or PDF format. Emailed letters must be signed by and come directly from the personal or official email address of the person submitting the letter.
Deadline
Applications must be submitted electronically by November 10, 2026 at 11:59 pm CT. Letters of recommendation must be postmarked or emailed by November 10, 2026. If emailed, they must be received by 11:59 pm CT. No extensions to the deadline will be made.
Additional Information
Please review the 2027 program calendar before applying. Selected candidates must attend every session of the training program. Some sessions have two dates listed, which will be finalized once the legislative calendars are released. Applicants should ensure they are available on both dates.
Interviews for those selected will be held on Wednesday, December 2 in Springfield and on Friday, December 4 and Saturday, December 5 in Chicago.
IWIL Training Academy subsidizes the majority of training expenses, including presenter fees, materials, meals, lodging, and out-of-state travel. Participants are responsible for in-state travel costs and select meals. Some employers may offer financial support as part of professional development. Additionally, IWIL Training Academy offers a $500 Downstate Stipend for delegates residing at least 250 miles from the intersection of State and Madison in Chicago, IL.
Accepted applicants agree to share their personal contact information with IWIL Training Academy Alumnae and Board Members. All applicants who are selected for an interview will sign an agreement form that includes this information.
Contact Information
IWIL Training Academy Application Address:
or
Illinois Women’s Institute for Leadership Training Academy
c/o NCC, LCC
220 N. Green St
Chicago, IL 60607
An agreement will be emailed after the application deadline to those who are chosen for an interview. This must be signed and returned in order to receive an interview.