The Niles Chamber of Commerce and Industry is recruiting up to 20 people for its 2027 Lead Local leadership program, with applications due Dec. 1.

The seven-month program meets once a month on the second Tuesday, 9 a.m. to noon, at locations across Niles and Morton Grove. Participants study local government, economic development, education, nonprofits and other community institutions. They also complete a collaborative community project.

According to the Chamber, the program is open to emerging and established leaders from businesses, nonprofits, schools, local government and community organizations.

A formal leadership title is not required.

Priority goes to people who live, work, volunteer or do business in Niles or Morton Grove. Applicants do not need an employer nomination. The Chamber is also encouraging employers to identify employees with leadership potential and support their participation.

Cost and deadlines

Standard registration is $1,195. Early registrants who sign up before Nov. 1 pay $895. Chamber members who register early pay $795.

The program's lead educator is Dr. Hamid Akbari, who has spent more than four decades in higher education and leadership development. Akbari served 28 years at Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago, where he chaired the Department of Management and Marketing and the University Faculty Senate. He also held dean positions at Winona State University and Carroll University, according to the Dehkhoda Educational Foundation, where he serves as president and CEO. Guest speakers and local leaders will join individual sessions.

The Chamber said the program emphasizes hands-on learning over classroom instruction. Participants will meet local decision-makers and explore community institutions at session locations throughout both villages. Specific sites will be shared before the program begins.

Interested residents can find more details on the Niles Chamber's Lead Local FAQ page or contact the Chamber at [email protected] or (847) 268-8180.