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2026 Executive Director Mentee Application

Through the Economic Development District Community of Practice (EDD CoP), the NADO Mentor Program pairs experienced EDD Executive Directors with new Executive Directors to facilitate knowledge and information sharing across the national network of EDDs. These pairings provide valuable organizational and personal development for new EDD Executive Directors.

Applications are open until Friday, July 17.

Mentees are expected to:

· Meet with your Mentor on a regular, mutually agreeable schedule over the next year.

· Meet with NADO Research Foundation staff and other program participants on a quarterly basis.

· Treat your Mentor with respect as a fellow RDO leader and be responsive to advice or suggestions.

· Build a professional, working relationship with your Mentor.

if you have any questions please email Joe D'Antonio at jdantonio@nado.org.
1.Name
2.Email Address
3.Organization
4.State
5.EDA Region:
6.Are you an Executive Director of an EDD that has been in your position for 5 years or less?
7.What do you hope to gain out of participating in this program as a mentee?
8.Would you prefer to be paired with a Mentor who is serving a primarily rural, urban, or suburban region?
9.Would you prefer being paired with a Mentor from your same state, EDA region, or anywhere? (We will do our best to pair based along these preferences but might not be able to based on applicants.)
10.How often would you be able to meet with your mentor?
11.What is your preferred method of contact?
12.Do you have any other preferences for a Mentor that were not identified above?