the incubator for executive leaders of color

This program provides six months of free leadership development and community support to 18 executive-level arts administrators in NYC. The program supports leaders who are uniquely positioned to influence the culture and operations of their organization, informed by guest workshop facilitators from BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities.

The 2025 program, for which we are currently accepting applications, will take place from April to September 2025. It is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts.

By fostering the professional development of leaders of Color, we aim to encourage the equitability and diversity of the arts industry. The program is slightly modified year-to-year to implement the learnings of the previous editions, which were generously supported by the Altman Foundation and Rockefeller Brothers Fund.

Program Highlights:

Opening and Closing Intensive

Bookending the program are two in-person intensives where participants connect with each other and delve deeply into leadership frameworks together.

Virtual Workshops

Led by expert consultants and other leaders, topics include conflict management, succession planning, and board and nonprofit management.

Accountability Partnership

Participants are grouped with each other to track and support their individual leadership goals.

One-on-One Advising

Participants are each paired with another Executive Leader of Color from the field who serves as their Advisor for the duration of the program.