Our Training Programs

Our Training Cycle

Emerge Vermont offers a variety of training opportunities designed to meet Democratic women where they are on their paths towards public service. Our training calendar runs in a 2-year timeframe to coincide with Vermont’s election cycle. These are the trainings we currently offer. Timing is subject to change.

• Signature Training Program — Our 70+ hour, flagship training program is now offered in non-election, odd numbered years. The next program will be offered in the fall of 2027. See below for more details about this program and its application process. The Signature Program is for people interested in running for office, exploring running, or providing campaign support for others.
• Candidate Bootcamp — This 3-day intensive program includes most of the content covered in the Signature Training Program, but condensed into a much shorter timeframe. The Bootcamp will be offered during election years (even-numbered years) and will occur shortly after the Vermont Legislature adjourns for the summer. This Bootcamp is for candidates who expect to be on the primary or general election ballot that year. This includes alums who are running for re-election and are interested in participating in the Bootcamp as a refresher. The application for the next Candidate Bootcamp will open in late 2025. 
• Municipal Bootcamp — This is a 1-day program that happens online in early January every year. It’s designed specifically for candidates interested in running for their selectboard, city council, board of trustees, or school board on Town Meeting Day. There is no application process and this Bootcamp is open to those who self-identify as Democratic women or non-binary people. Municipal Bootcamp can also be held in person in specific locations upon request.
• Step Forward — Designed as a “taste of Emerge,” our Step Forwards are 1.5-hour online (or in person upon request) sessions that help participants think about whether running for office is for them and what running would entail. Step Forwards are great for those who are “politics curious” but are looking for more information. These sessions are scheduled throughout the year and also upon request.

If you have questions or just want to talk about our training programs, feel free to contact Elaine Haney at elaine@emergevt.org or schedule a virtual appointment.

Who Should Apply for our Signature Training Program and Candidate Bootcamp?

Emerge Vermont seeks Democratic women and non-binary individuals who are committed to effective political leadership, are interested in running for elective office, and who have:

• Evidence of political leadership experience or potential and meaningful involvement in workplace or community;
• Interest in running for political office;
• Ability and desire to build effective networks;
• Ability to articulate a personal political vision; and
• Commitment to full participation and attendance requirements of the trainings.

Applicants must identify as women or non-binary and Democrats and reside in Vermont.

Emerge Vermont will select 20-30 participants from across the state who meet the above criteria and who we believe have the potential to be political leaders.

Emerge embraces diversity and encourages applications from all women regardless of age, race, color, national or ethnic origin, immigration status, marital status, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or physical ability. Our mission to build the bench of Democratic women ready to run for office acknowledges both systemic and historic barriers to running for office as well as the barriers women impose on themselves.

To be considered for the Emerge Vermont training program, applicants must complete a written application and provide two references. Written applications will be evaluated by a selection committee and qualified applicants will be invited to an interview.

The next Candidate Bootcamp will be held in early 2026. The next Signature Training Program will be held in the fall of 2027. Please sign up for our mailing list so you can be notified of relevant dates and future training opportunities.

Time Commitment

The success of the Emerge Vermont Signature Training Program and our Candidate Bootcamp depends upon commitment to the program’s entire schedule by each participant. Over the course of the Signature Training, up to 80 program hours are scheduled. This hybrid program combines several weekends with shorter, online programming. There is some homework between sessions. The Candidate Bootcamp is a 3-day intensive program that requires attendance for the entire long weekend. While emergencies sometimes arise, attendance at the Signature Training Program orientation and the first three sessions of training is mandatory and absence will result in a deferral to the following year. In the event that unforeseen circumstances arise that prevent in person gatherings, trainings that are scheduled to occur in person may be transitioned to online with as much advance notice as possible.

In general, Signature Training Program sessions will be both in person and online. There are some 2-day sessions. Locations are determined once the class composition is known. Every effort is made to hold in person sessions at locations within reasonable driving distance to all class members. Class members are responsible for their own transportation and any overnight accommodations.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to check your calendar before applying to ensure you are available for all training dates. Emerge Vermont reserves the right to make changes to the schedule due to unforeseen circumstances; we will do our very best to keep to the published schedule.

Interviews

Emerge Vermont will review completed written applications and select finalists for interviews. Finalists will be invited to attend an interview with two members of the selection committee and the executive director. Interviews will occur online. In most cases, acceptance notifications are shared within 2 weeks of interviews.

Tuition and Fees

An application fee of $25 must be submitted along with a completed application. Tuition for the Signature Training Program is $950 and tuition for Candidate Bootcamp is $400. Tuition rates may be subject to change for future programs. Payment plans and limited scholarships are available. Emerge Vermont encourages and trains program members on fundraising their tuition. If financial concerns are holding you back from applying, reach out to elaine@emergevt.org. Financial need should not be a barrier to applying to the program.

The application for the 2026 Candidate Bootcamp will open in late 2025. Please sign up for our mailing list so you can be notified of future training opportunities.

Trainers

Emerge trainers are a premiere team of campaign consultants, current and former elected officials, advisors, and staff from Vermont and all over the country. Many have been involved in exciting Democratic campaigns and initiatives  in recent election cycles. They are experts in fundraising, direct mail, field strategy, communications, press management, and campaign messaging. They have helped win races from city council to the Governor’s office to Congress.

Our Curriculum

As a program member, you will be exposed to a variety of campaign and election experts. You will meet an array of dynamic women who hold elected and appointed office. Through Emerge, you are given specific opportunities to expand your political network. As an Emerge Vermont program member, you become a part of a supportive network which includes a national network of Emerge alums and Emerge cabinet and advisory council members.

Participants in our Signature Training and Candidate Bootcamp programs receive comprehensive training that includes the following topics:

 

It doesn’t matter if you’re thinking of running for local school board or the U.S. Senate. We can help you get ready to run!