Join the Grimes Leadership Academy and Take the Next Step in Your Leadership Journey

For Grimes resident and entrepreneur Erin Huiatt, the nine-month Grimes Leadership Academy (GLA) provided valuable insights into communication, teamwork and leadership while creating lasting connections with community members along the way. Monthly sessions help participants gain insight into Grimes' history, economy and more — it's a program that makes an impact, and one that makes a long-term investment in its leaders.

During her time in GLA, Huiatt worked on a group project benefitting the Grimes community. The group created an outdoor pergola for the  Grimes Public Library, working through processes such as fundraising, marketing and project management. Read the full story about Huiatt's time participating in GLA here.

Apply for the Grimes Leadership Academy 2026/2027 Class

Apply by Monday, June 15, 2026 to join the next class of GLA, which runs September through May, with those selected meeting one full day (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) per month plus project time. The class schedule includes an Orientation Retreat, a Graduation Celebration and collaboration during its monthly classes ,which feature themes like volunteerism, regional collaboration and community history.

The Grimes Leadership Academy is an initiative of the Grimes Chamber & Economic Development.

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