BLK Leadership Accelerator
A capacity-building program for Black nonprofit leaders who are navigating the systemic challenges and are committed to building impactful and sustainable organizations that support the overall well-being of the community.
Course Description
Fall 2025 Program Features
Now in its third year, the BLK Leadership Accelerator has guided two successful cohorts of Black Executive Directors (2023-2024 and 2024-2025), helping leaders across Maryland strengthen their skills, expand their networks, and drive greater impact in their organizations.
Applications for the 2025-2026 cohort will open September 22, 2025, and close October 10, 2025. If you’re ready to invest in your leadership and join a community of peers committed to equity and excellence in the nonprofit sector, we encourage you to apply.
Curriculum Format:
● 90 minutes
● Interactive
● In-person/Virtual (Hybrid)
● Course released each month

BLK Leadership Accelerator
2025-2026 application form
The BLK Leadership Accelerator program is designed for Black executive directors serving in Maryland who want to strengthen their leadership skills, expand their networks, and increase their organizational impact. Applications for the 2025-2026 cohort will open September 22, 2025, and close October 10, 2025. Please return during that window to submit your application for consideration.

BLK Leadership Accelerator
2024-2025 Virtual application form
Not based in Maryland but still want to participate? The BLK Leadership Accelerator includes a comprehensive virtual track with pre-recorded lessons, live discussions, and access to the same training materials and activities used in our in-person sessions.
Applications for the 2025-2026 virtual cohort will open September 22, 2025, and close October 10, 2025. Please return during that window to submit your application for consideration.
2024-2025 cohort
2023-2024 cohort

Participant testimonials
Donna Bruce, CEO & Founder
“Thank you for the incredible experience and support throughout this program. Your guidance has been instrumental in helping me build upon my repertoire. It was an honor to be among such amazing community leaders. I look forward to watching the impactful work you all will continue to do. Remember, community is everybody's business.”
Nicole Davis, Founder & Executive Director
“The accelerator has helped me with making sound decisions for my organization and helped me become more aware of the issues that can arise.”
Tamaneisha Thibodeaux, Founder & Executive Director
“We have implemented new policies to attract board members - thanks to the accelerator program”
2024-2025 Cohort Member, BLK Leadership Accelerator (Anonymous)
“Being a part of this cohort has helped me recognize my potential and encouraged me not to give up on myself. I realize I am not alone; everyone faces challenges along their journey. I have learned the importance of asking for help from others. I understand that when I confront a difficult situation, I need to set aside my pride and involve my board and volunteers so we can work together as a team to resolve the issue. As a result, I have learned how to delegate effectively.”
2024-2025 gallery
2023-2024 gallery
INVEST IN OUR LEADERS
Uplift, grow, and advocate
Through our community, we seek to address the disparities in nonprofit leadership by creating mentorship, professional development, and the collective sharing of thoughts and ideas in culturally safe spaces where black leaders are affirmed in their identity.
BLK ED Network is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.