Emerging ESE Leaders cohort
Fall 2026
The Denver ESE Collective's Emerging Leaders Cohort is a new professional development experience designed specifically for rising leaders working within employment social enterprises (ESEs). This cohort is designed for individuals already in a key leadership position within the organization, who have the desire and skills to grow into executive leadership within an employment social enterprise.
Over five sessions, participants will deepen their understanding of the ESE model, strengthen practical leadership skills, connect with peers across the Denver ecosystem, and build the confidence to lead mission-driven organizations that balance both social impact and earned revenue.
This inaugural cohort is intentionally small, creating space for meaningful discussion, practical learning, and lasting relationships. As a pilot program, participants will also help shape future cohorts through their feedback and experience.
Program Details
Schedule
Mondays, 4:00–6:00 PM
October 5
October 19
November 2
November 16
December 7 (Celebration & Reflection)
Participants are expected to attend all five sessions.
Application Deadline: September 11, 2026
Location
Denver Metro Area (final location to be announced).
Cost
There is no cost to participate. In return, participants will be asked to provide honest feedback throughout the pilot to help us strengthen future cohorts.
Cohort Size
5–10 participants.
Who Should Apply?
This cohort is designed for emerging leaders who are growing into executive leadership roles within an employment social enterprise.
Ideal participants include individuals who:
Work full-time at an established employment social enterprise.
Have at least two years of experience with their organization.
Have been supervising staff or leading projects for approximately 6–12 months (or are preparing for increased leadership responsibilities).
Are excited to build a long-term career in the employment social enterprise sector.
Value learning alongside a supportive community of peers.
Bring lived experience and/or a deep commitment to the mission of employment social enterprise.
We welcome applicants from organizations of all sizes. We're looking less at job titles and more at leadership potential, curiosity, and a desire to grow.
What You'll Learn
Each session blends practical tools with honest conversations about the realities of leading within an employment social enterprise.
Session 1 — Understanding the ESE Model
Explore the unique opportunities and tensions of employment social enterprise, including balancing mission and revenue, common financial realities, and why leadership in this sector requires a different approach.
Session 2 — The Secret Sauce of ESE Leadership
Develop your own leadership philosophy while exploring trust, decision-making, sustainable leadership, personal values, and navigating the complexity of leading mission-driven teams.
Session 3 — Building Cultures of Engagement & Accountability
Learn practical approaches for coaching, accountability, restorative practices, motivation, case-based problem solving, and creating environments where both employees and apprentices can succeed.
Session 4 — Understanding the Double Bottom Line
Gain confidence reading financials, understanding diversified revenue, fundraising realities, and measuring both financial and social impact.
Session 5 — Building Your Network for the Future
Connect with local and national resources, strengthen relationships with fellow cohort members, reflect on your growth, and explore how this community continues beyond the pilot.
Apply Now
Thank you for your interest in the Denver ESE Collective's Emerging Leaders Cohort.
This cohort is designed for rising leaders working within employment social enterprises who are looking to strengthen their leadership skills, connect with peers across the Denver ecosystem, and grow alongside others who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of leading an ESE.
Applications should take approximately 5–10 minutes to complete.
Before applying, please confirm that you are available to attend all cohort sessions.
Program Dates
Monday, October 5 | 4:00–6:00 PM
Monday, October 19 | 4:00–6:00 PM
Monday, November 2 | 4:00–6:00 PM
Monday, November 16 | 4:00–6:00 PM
Wednesday, December 7 | Celebration & Reflection | 4:00–6:00 PM