Investing in St. Louis’ Future
The Fellows Experience, an initiative of Greater St. Louis, Inc., is a premier nine-month leadership development program that partners with companies, institutions, and organizations to cultivate and retain mid-career professionals as part of a strong, inclusive talent pipeline. Anchored in the STL 2030 Jobs Plan, the program equips rising leaders with the professional development, civic engagement, and strategic relationships needed to thrive and lead in the St. Louis region.
Through immersive, high-impact sessions and intentional cross-sector collaboration, The Fellows Experience strengthens an organization’s efforts to grow, advance, and retain talent, driving inclusive economic growth across the 15-county metro.
Together, we are building a more competitive, equitable, and future-ready St. Louis.
Organizational Commitment
- Once an organization has committed to program participation, each nomination must be supported by the candidate’s direct report (supervisor, manager, or organizational leader).
- The nominee’s organization must fund the $4,250 tuition fee for all program-related materials and experiences.
Organizational Benefits
When organizations invest in a Fellow, they invest in future-ready leadership. Participating employers report:
- Stronger employee retention and internal mobility.
- Cross-sector insights brought back into the organization.
- Visibility and alignment with regional leadership and economic goals
Nominee Criteria:
We’re looking for mid- to senior-level professionals who:
- Have at least 5 – 7 years of work experience and a college degree (or equivalent skills and abilities).
- Demonstrate a track record of leadership, influence, and community involvement.
- Reflective of the backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences in our community that create an inclusive workforce.
- Are eager to serve and strengthen the St. Louis region.
Program Overview and Impact
The nine-month program will run from January through September of each year. Sessions will take place monthly in person at locations throughout the St. Louis region.
Nominated individuals will join an elite and growing network of over 1,200 Fellows Experience alumni nationwide, representing a robust and influential collective of changemakers shaping policy, driving innovation, and leading across sectors. The Fellows Experience is more than professional development; it’s a transformative journey that builds capacity, community, and a lasting legacy of leadership.
Program Schedule and Commitment Duration: January–September 2026
Format: In-person sessions monthly in the St. Louis region. (Virtual sessions, only when needed. There will be no hybrid sessions.)
Time Commitment: 7.5 hours per session + civic engagement opportunities.Each month focuses on a key theme, from strategic leadership and inclusive practices to civic capital and personal branding. The program includes a Day of Service, regional engagement, assessment tools, and a closing graduation ceremony.
The Next Cohort : Nominations are now open for the 20th Cohort of the Fellows Experience, beginning January 2026. Seats are limited: Cohort #20 will be capped at 100 Fellows, and nominations will close once the cohort is filled. If you would like to learn more about how your organization can participate, please contact the Fellows Experience team.