LEAP Impact FAQs

Sponsored by American Express


What do I need to complete a LEAP Impact Application?

You will need a completed LEAP Impact Application, a Letter of Endorsement from your Executive Director or someone from your organization's leadership team, a current resume, and short answer responses (questions are found on the application).

How will applications be reviewed?

We will be looking for interest in developing your leadership skills, interest in connecting with other Asian and Pacific Islander leaders, interest in bringing back learned skills to your organization, commitment to attending all three parts of the program, and history of service to the Asian and Pacific Islander community.

How do I shine in my application?

You will shine demonstrating your authentic self. We are all unique because of our journies and stories. Think about who and what experiences have shaped your leadership journey and the individual you are today. Be authentic, your passion will shine through.

I am an Executive Director/Vice President/Board Member. Can I apply?

LEAP Impact is curated to support Mid-to-Senior Level Managers, Directors, and Coordinators. If you are an executive director with less than three years of experience, check out the LEAP Engage: Executive Nonprofit Leaders Program. It follows the same format as LEAP Impact.

How many people will be accepted?

LEAP Impact has historically accepted 16 cohort members. If more funding becomes available, we increase our cohort size.

Who has LEAP Impact served?

LEAP Impact has accepted participants from across the East Asian, South Asian, Southeast Asian, Central Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander diasporas who come from grass-root organizations to large scale nonprofit organizations.

Will preference be given to applicants from California and Illinois?

We accept applicants from across the mainland U.S., Hawai'i, and the U.S. Territories.

Are there any scholarships available?

Once you submit an application, send a Letter of Financial Support to Eledy Vargas Gonzalez with the following:

  1. Expressing Need for Financial Assistance
  2. Nonprofit's Current Organizational Budget
  3. How much Financial Support you need (i.e., $XXX)

Any additional questions? Email Chingcha Vang, Eledy Vargas Gonzalez, or Lauren Kojima.