Are you a senior non-profit leader ready to grow your impact and lead with greater resilience? The American Express Leadership Academy 2026 is a fully funded global leadership program designed to strengthen changemakers across the non-profit sector. If you’re ready to influence change, build powerful networks, and transform your organisation, this opportunity is for you.
Quick Facts
• Host Locations: USA (New York City), UK (London), Asia Pacific (Location varies)
• Program Type: Executive Leadership Development Program
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Eligible Regions: Americas, EMEA & UK, Asia Pacific (region-specific eligibility applies)
• Deadlines:
- EMEA: 2 March 2026
- Asia Pacific: 13 July 2026
- Americas 2027: Applications Open
About the Opportunity
The American Express Leadership Academy is a global initiative created to strengthen leadership capacity within the non-profit sector. For over a decade, the academy has empowered senior leaders to navigate change, build resilience, and expand their impact.
Delivered by Common Purpose in partnership with American Express, the programme combines in-person and online learning over six months.
Participants experience:
- 4 days of in-person immersive learning
- 5 online workshops
- 360° leadership assessment
- One-on-one coaching
- Global peer networking
Related Opportunity: If you are looking for more leadership opportunities that focus on human rights and social impact, you should also check out the Global Fellows in Courage (GFiC) Program 2026, which is currently accepting applications.
The academy focuses on helping leaders thrive in uncertainty, influence beyond authority, and develop resilience while building stronger organisations and communities.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be senior leaders in the non-profit sector
- Currently serve in (or be identified for) executive leadership roles
- Work for a registered non-profit organisation
- Have roles requiring influence inside and outside their organisations
- Demonstrate innovation, adaptability, and commitment to change
- Apply within their designated regional program
Benefits
Participants of the American Express Leadership Academy receive:
- Fully funded participation (no tuition cost)
- 4-day in-person immersive leadership experience
- 5 virtual workshops across 6 months
- 360° leadership evaluation
- Personalised 1:1 coaching sessions
- Access to a global peer network
- Practical leadership tools and frameworks
- Training in resilience, storytelling, innovation & influence
- Long-term professional connections
Impact statistics:
- 98% would recommend the academy
- 92% report increased leadership confidence
- 95% improved self-awareness
Application Process
Follow these steps:
- Choose your eligible regional programme.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit the required professional and organisational details.
- Await communication regarding selection.
Be sure to apply before your region’s deadline.
How to Apply
If you are ready to accelerate your leadership journey and strengthen your impact in the non-profit sector, this is your opportunity.
For more details, visit the American Express Leadership Academy Program.
