Leaders for Future Generations

This cohort is designed to strengthen Tribal leadership in practice; through access and support in topics related to project planning, capacity building and infrastructure, and systems knowledge related to child care, early learning workforce development, and long-term program sustainability.

The cohort will provide culturally grounded professional development, peer-learning and community space for Tribal Nation and Native-led child care leaders at varying stages of readiness and growth. The intent is to support these Tribal directors, program managers, and leadership professionals in strengthening the operational and governance systems needed to sustain Tribal early childhood programs and facilities.

Participation is open to Tribal Child Care Infrastructure Fund (CCIF) recipients, applicants, and Tribal-led early learning programs preparing for future infrastructure investment.

Course Support

Each participating Tribal program may receive up to $10,000 in milestone-based incentives for participation and completion. In addition, travel support for in-person gatherings may be available in the form of a reimbursement.

In addition to cohort professional development sessions, participating Tribal programs will have access to one-on-one technical assistance offered by Northwest Native Chamber staff. Some examples of technical assistance are:

• Review infrastructure or facility planning documents
• Discuss workforce development strategies or individual ORO pathways
• Identify potential funding sources or capital campaign strategies
• Clarify licensing pathways or regulatory questions
• Prepare materials for Tribal leadership or governance discussions

Course Topics

Creating Space to Grow
Virtual, 1.5 hours | Sept. 09, 2026
Orientation, relationship-building, and shared learning goals

Tribal Child Care & Facilities Management A–Z
In-Person, 4 hours | Oct. 14, 2026
Facilities planning, readiness, and infrastructure development

Tribal ECE Workforce Development
Virtual, 1.5-hours | Nov. 18, 2026
Building Tribal early learning pathways and workforce systems

Capital & Financial Strategy for Tribal Programs
Virtual, 1.5 hours | Dec. 09, 2026
Sustainability, funding strategies, and capital planning

Standards in Tribal Early Care & Education
Virtual, 1.5-hours | Jan. 13, 2027
Licensing, compliance, and Tribal-led regulatory systems

Tribal Leadership, Governance & Advocacy
In-Person, 4-hours | Feb. 10, 22027
Leadership development, Tribal governance, and long-term planning