Leadership Elk River is a training program designed to develop community leaders, and to get you connected to other influential people in your community. 

Setting this program apart, it combines leadership skill building with community focused education. It links key business leaders with participants. It provides a catalyst for vision and change. It builds a better tomorrow for all of us.  So, apply and unlock your leadership potential. 

Many graduates find that this training taps into something that they didn’t know was there. Today they are contributing to vital areas of the community - politics, business, arts, and more.

Testimonial
"I've lived in Elk River for 15 years, yet was amazed by what I learned. The Leadership Elk River program really expanded my knowledge of this community - past, present and future. Thanks for a great program."     --Fred Blake, First National Bank of Elk River

The program lasts nine months, and meets one Friday of each month.  There are exclusive tours, professional speakers, and much more.

Participants
The class will be limited to 25 participants in order to increase the effectiveness of the program dialogue. Participants may miss no more than two of the training sessions if they wish to receive a diploma at the conclusion of the series. Make-up sessions may be scheduled at courses in future years to obtain a certificate of completion.

Selection Process
The Selection Committee strives to achieve a fair representation from all areas of the community. The Selection Committee will notify applicants of acceptance into the program by mid August of each year. All committee decisions are final.

Tuition
$350 for the eleven session program with a $75 discount for Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce members ($275) is paid either by the participant's sponsoring business or organization, by the participant, or jointly.

How To Apply
Contact the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce, (763) 441-3110 to request an application. Complete the application and return it along with a $25 refundable application fee. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance by mid August of each year.

What our graduates have to say

"I have lived in the Elk River Community for 20 years and was enlightened, through the Leadership Program, to learn more about what Elk River has to offer than I had ever known before. I strongly recommend this program to those who wish to experience a program full of information, team building and self satisfaction. Thank you Elk River Chamber for providing this great opportunity."
Rhonda J. Madsen, NRG Energy, Inc. / Elk River Resource Recovery

"I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was concerned about the time spent away from the office. Perhaps somewhat skeptical, how could something like this benefit my employer or me? I gained insight into the community that I was previously naïve to. The program made me aware of opportunities for personal involvement for community effectiveness. It was informational as well as inspirational.
Bonnie McClain, The Bank of Elk River

"Leadership Elk River is a must attend! This class opened my eyes to the benefits of living in our community - benefits that I have missed even though I have lived in this community for almost 20 years. Thank you for this great experience."
Debbie Carlson, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Vision

"The Leadership course gave me an appreciation for Elk River's rich heritage, it broadened my understanding of its day to day operations and presents a vision of where this community is heading in the years to come."
Bob Elveru, NovaCare

"Leadership Elk River is a must for anyone seeking an opportunity to sharpen their leadership skills, and who wishes to learn how their own unique leadership style can help shape the future of Elk River. Enroll today and discover Elk River."
John Grimmer, Lefebvre's Carpet

"Understanding Elk River’s growing community and our commitment to it’s continued success is what you will gain from enrolling in the next learning opportunity of Leadership Elk River. After experiencing the course for yourself, I believe you will appreciate at a higher level all Elk River has to offer you and your company."
Dan Dixon, Guardian Angels of Elk River

"Leadership Elk River is team building at it’s best! A must for anyone in a leadership position in our community - time well spent with relevant subjects, focused presentations, featured speakers and meaningful group participation. A refreshing experience."
Liz Harris, Star News / Star Shopper

"This Leadership program gave me a whole new outlook of Elk River. Not being a resident, but owning a business in Elk River, I was short sighted about all that this community has to offer. This program has enlightened me tremendously. Thanks for the opportunity"
Mark Urista, Coldwell Banker Vision

"When I was first approached with attending the Elk River Leadership program, I was somewhat skeptical. However, I was very surprised and pleased by the things I learned. I met many new and interesting people; and really felt it was time well spent. The subject matter was relevant and the presentations were focused and very well done. I would recommend the Leadership program to anyone who would like a better understanding of our growing community and of themselves."
Cory Kyllonen - Elk River Ford Dodge Jeep

"Leadership Elk River is a great opportunity to learn about the community you live and/or work in, whether you are new to the area or have been here for quite some time. It's also a chance to make friends and connections that will help you achieve greater success and happiness in the future."
Jim Boyle, Star News Star Shopper

"I work for Elk River Ford Dodge Jeep. I was fortunate enough to have been selected to participate in Leadership Elk River this past year. Throughout the program I not only had a chance to learn more about the community, but I learned a lot about myself. I learned how to be a better person, co-worker, and member of my community. I had the opportunity to network with other professionals in the area as well. I would highly recommend this course to anyone in the area who wants to grow a s a person, a professional and as a citizen. By the way, the course was also fun as well!"
Jaime Drabczak, Elk River Ford Dodge Jeep

Click here for an application for Leadership Elk River