McKinney Leadership Stipend Available

Funding available to help with training and conference costs

Looking to build your skills, strengthen your leadership or bring new ideas back to your community? The NCRPC McKinney Leadership Stipend can help offset the cost of training and conferences.

Through the stipend, the NCRPC provides a limited pool of $500 per fiscal year (April 1–March 31) to help offset the cost of training or conferences for individuals living and/or working in the 12-county NCRPC service area who have demonstrated a commitment to improving their community or workplace. Eligible opportunities include conferences, workshops, certification courses, leadership programs and virtual trainings. Travel and lodging may also qualify, with up to $100 available toward those costs.

Preference is given to individuals working in local government or nonprofits, as well as those without employer-sponsored professional development opportunities. Funding is limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability. If applications exceed available funds, requests will be reviewed competitively.

The stipend honors Doug McKinney, a former NCRPC executive director and longtime champion of leadership development.

Apply before attending an eligible event. Learn more and apply for the McKinney Leadership Stipend.

This article appeared in the Summer 2026 NCRPC Newsletter.