Dear ATXelerator applicant:

 

Thank you for your interest in applying for the 2026 ATXelerator class. If selected, you will be among 25 future-focused leaders who believe Austin’s best path forward is through responsible growth, transportation infrastructure investments, economic development, technological innovation, pro-environment policies and big-picture thinking.

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A few prerequisites: you must live in the Austin city limits or extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) and be at least 21 years old.

 

Our focus is to provide a very experiential education on how Austin city government functions. Key principles of leadership, including advocacy, mentorship, coalition-building and public speaking, to name just a few, are also taught to class members. Who should apply? Anyone who wants a deep understanding of the major policy issues facing Austin and how planning for the future is the most responsible way to maintain and improve Austin’s famed quality of life. Also, if you are interested in serving on a city board or commission or possibly running for city council, you should apply to the ATXelerator. We seek applicants from all districts and seek diversity in terms of backgrounds, professions, age, gender, race, ethnicity and policy positions.

 

The 2026 ATXelerator class is a shortened version of the normal program. It starts March 28, 2026, with an immersive Saturday experience and it concludes on May 13, 2026. The 2026 program offers six weekly Wednesday evening sessions on a wide range of municipal issues, and a one-day retreat on class project presentations.

 

There is no application fee and, if admitted, the ATXelerator tuition is $195 (normal tuition is $395). Tuition scholarships are available for qualified applicants and nobody will be denied based on an inability to cover tuition. Many employers will pay for this type of leadership development so check with your organization. The application deadline is March 2, 2026.  

 

If you have any questions, please contact Ward Tisdale at ward.tisdale@atxelerator.org.

 

On behalf of the ATXelerator Board of Directors, thank you for applying and good luck! Click here to apply.