Flagship Leadership Program Seeks Community and Business Leaders for Year-Long Development Experience; Applications Due November 20

SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. — The Moore County Chamber of Commerce today announced that applications are now open for the 2027 class of the Moore County Leadership Institute (MCLI). Now in its fourth decade, MCLI is the region's premier leadership development program, having developed nearly 700 leaders across Moore County since its founding in 1989.

The 2027 class will bring together a diverse cohort of community and business leaders for 10 months of hands-on exploration, professional development, and civic engagement. Beginning with an Opening Retreat January 20–21, 2027, participants will travel across Moore County each month, meeting the people and institutions that drive the region forward, from local government and agriculture to tourism, military heritage, and beyond.
  This year, MCLI introduces a new signature element: “Lead-Off,” a 5–10 minute structured Q&A segment at the close of each session in which participants ask speakers a core set of leadership-focused questions. The format is designed to deepen engagement and create candid, personal dialogue between participants and community leaders.

The 2027 program includes sessions on County Services, North Moore, Community Services, Agriculture & Manufacturing, Visitor & Tourism, Government, Camp Mackall, and more, concluding with Project Presentations and Graduation in November 2027.

Application Details: https://www.moorecountychamber.com/mcli/?doing_wp_cron=1789584819.2759330272674560546875 Application Deadline: November 20, 2026 by 5:00 PM
Acceptance Notifications: December 15, 2026
Tuition: $1,795 for Chamber Members | $1,995 for general applicants (plus a $25 non-refundable application fee)
Tuition Assistance: Limited assistance available for accepted participants, covering up to 50% of tuition
How to Apply: Applications are available through the Moore County Chamber of Commerce. Contact Jonathon Lewis at jlewis@moorecountychamber.com or visit moorecountychamber.com for more information.

The Moore County Chamber of Commerce welcomes applicants from all sectors of the Moore County area and encourages diversity in backgrounds, industries, and experience levels.

About the Moore County Chamber of Commerce The Moore County Chamber of Commerce is a member-driven organization committed to fostering a thriving business community in Moore County, North Carolina. The Chamber supports economic growth, business development, and community engagement through programming, advocacy, and partnerships. The Moore County Leadership Institute is one of several flagship programs offered through the Chamber. For more information, visit moorecountychamber.com or contact the Chamber at 160 W New York Ave, Unit 3, Southern Pines, NC 28387 | info@moorecountychamber.com