Creative Community Leadership Institute

Creative Community Leadership Institute (CCLI) is an intensive, in-person, cohort-based training program with real-world practice for artists, culture bearers, community organizers, community development practitioners, and other leaders seeking to deepen their impact in creative community building.

Each year CCLI will host three cohorts, one each in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. Cohorts will meet in person three times over six months from spring to fall, with each session in a different location within the state. Each year, one cohort will center land and Native nations in part by being located in Native communities, nations, or tribal land. Sessions will feature guest presenters and connection to local sites and leaders, and have a threefold focus: centering participants’ individual passions and knowledge; sharing practical tools and techniques; and inspiring cross-sector ideas and connections. In addition to learning together, participants will be supported to design and implement a mini-pilot project in their home base.

Selection of applicants will prioritize practitioners who are Native and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color), disabled, and/or are from rural and smaller-town communities. Participants will receive modest financial support for the pilot project and to offset costs of travel.

The CCLI experience can be transformational in enhancing perspective, making connections, and impacting participants’ communities. Outcomes for CCLI participants include: gaining more knowledge about the role of art and culture in community problem solving; building skills to be able to effectively integrate art and culture into community development; leadership growth; and gained networks of cross-sector peers.

The alumni of CCLI will be invited to learn and network with one another and the new cohort participants through shared events and activities.

CCLI is co-led by Racing Magpie (Rapid City, SD) and Springboard for the Arts (St. Paul and Fergus Falls, MN). CCLI is made possible through generous support from the Bush Foundation.