918 Lead is a nonpartisan one weekend bootcamp to prepare young Tulsans to run for public office.
Whether you’re considering a campaign one day, ready to file the paperwork tomorrow, or just want to learn more about the ins and outs of local government, 918 Lead is a crash course in everything that goes into running for a local, state or federal seat.
Applications for this year’s 918 Lead Cohort will be open June 1 - June 30.
The 2024 918 Lead program will take place August 16-18.
Sessions are currently scheduled for:
6:00 - 7:30 p.m. on Friday (8/16)
9:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m. on Saturday (8/17)
1:00 - 5:00 p.m. on Sunday (8/18)
If you have any questions or concerns, please email Tiyahna Garrett at tiyahnagarrett@tulsachamber.com
Participants
918 Lead is for Tulsa County residents between the ages of 18 and 40 who are interested in learning about how to run for, and serve in, public office. The program actively seeks diverse young professionals from all parts of the region to participate.
Benefits
Participants will hear from current and former elected officials, campaign managers, and political insiders on the merits and challenges of running for and holding public office.
Participants will expand their knowledge about the roles and responsibilities of various levels of government.
Participants will expand their networks by connecting with other passionate, civic-minded young professionals and community leaders.
Participants have the opportunity to be mentored by a former elected official to help them strengthen their platform and make decisions about their personal civic journey.
2023 Program Overview
Friday 8/25
Welcome
Program Overview
Meet Your Cohort/ Network
Saturday 8/26
So You Want to Run for Office
Workshop: Finding Your Districts & Writing Your Stump Speech
A Day in the Life (Campaigning)
Workshop: Best Practices
Sunday 8/27
A Day in the Life of an Elected Official
Positions in Politics: Commissions, Consulting, Policy
Building a Campaign Team
FAQs
What is the purpose of 918 Lead?
918 Lead is a one-weekend bootcamp to prepare young Tulsans to run for public office. Whether you’re considering a campaign or ready to file the paperwork tomorrow, 918 Lead is a crash course in everything that goes into running for a local, state or federal seat.
When are applications open?
Applications will open June 1 2024. Applications will be open until June 30.
Is there a cost?
There is no cost to participate in 918 Lead.
How many people will be selected for this program?
There will be around 30 applicants selected for the program each year.
Is this program only for people who want to run for public office?
No, 918 Lead also accepts applicants who would like to learn more about campaigns and the details of public service. This program is a great option for young professionals who would like to work on other candidates' campaigns or get civically informed and involved.
Will my political leanings or affiliation affect my acceptance into this program?
No, 918 Lead is a nonpartisan program that accepts applicants of diverse political affiliations and ideologies.
If I am prepared to file for office after completing 918 Lead, what support can I expect from TYPROS?
While 918 Lead will provide information and connections to help participants learn best practices in building a campaign team, fundraising, and filing for office, TYPROS will not directly support participants with any of these components upon completion of the program. After completion, 918 Lead will connect participants committed to running for office with a local former elected official and other state and national candidate-support organizations to navigate the next steps on their civic journey.
Will TYPROS endorse or sponsor me if I choose to run for public office?
No, TYPROS does not endorse or sponsor candidates.