Emerging Leaders Mentorship Program

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The National Land Bank Network (NLBN) is pleased to support another year of the Emerging Leaders Mentorship Program to continue fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange in the land banking field.  

The Emerging Leaders Mentorship Program pairs seasoned land bank leaders with emerging leaders seeking guidance in their roles. New land bank leaders are often forced to learn on the fly and work to solve their community’s vacant property challenges on their own. This program helps these new leaders grow their knowledge and form a deep connection with an experienced thought partner.   

The ideal mentees are individuals with less than 5 years of experience in the land banking field and newer to a leadership role who want to learn from experienced mentors who have successfully navigated similar paths.   

The ideal mentors are leaders with a minimum of 5 years of experience in the land banking field who are eager to provide insight and advice to propel their mentees' growth. 

Apply via the application portal by March 31, 2026 at 5 PM ET. 

Expectations for Program Participants

  • Complete a Participant Agreement form. 
  • Coordinate a meeting schedule and preferred method of contact. 
  • Meet virtually for at least one hour once per month for program duration (May–November 2026). Additional meetings are up to the discretion of mentee and mentor but strongly encouraged. 
  • Cultivate an environment of professionalism, trust, and respect. 
  • Adhere to the meeting guidance documents provided by NLBN.  
  • Attend virtual meetings with other mentorship program participants hosted by NLBN. 
  • Successfully complete agreed-upon obligations by the end of program. 
  • Participate in any follow-up surveys and/or phone calls throughout and following program completion and provide feedback/testimonials where applicable. 

2026 Key Program Dates

March 31, 2026: Applications due at 5:00 PM ET. Submit your application here » 

April 13, 2026: All mentees and mentors matched. 

April 20, 2026: All mentee and mentors introduced via email. 

April 27, 2026: Virtual Meet and Greet and Program Overview.  

May–November 2026: Monthly mentor-mentee meetings.  

September 23, 2026: For those attending the Reclaiming Vacant Properties Conference only: In-person gathering. 

November 23, 2026: Wrap-up call with program participants. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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Questions?

Reach out to Kira Carney, Program Officer, Education, Leadership, and Engagement, at [email protected].

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