This page describes the Fall 2026 edition (18–19 September, Grand Finale on 29 September), which has taken place. See what is coming up.
EDC program · Online
Local Boards Academy
An online training for current and incoming Local Board members from JCI Europe National Organisations, built to strengthen their leadership impact at the local level.
The Fall 2026 edition ran online on 18–19 September, with a Grand Finale on 29 September. The Academy is free for JCI members.
Who is it for?
The Academy is designed for current and incoming Local Board members who are committed to strengthening their Local Organisations and their leadership impact. That includes Local Presidents, Vice Presidents, Secretaries, Treasurers and board members responsible for areas such as membership, projects and team coordination.
It suits motivated leaders who want practical tools, strategic direction and a supportive international environment to exchange best practice, align with the JCI framework and drive sustainable growth locally.
What participants learn
Over two days of interactive workshops and practical sessions, participants learn how to:
- develop a strategic plan for the year
- strengthen their leadership skills
- put recruitment and retention strategies in place
- build sustainable financial foundations
- attract valuable partners
- raise their organisation's visibility through marketing and communication
Every session gives insights that can be applied straight away.
Program
Two days of hands-on workshops, one Grand Finale
- Day 1 · 18 September
Plan of Action
Turn big visions into an actionable roadmap: design a realistic and measurable Plan of Action (PoA), align your team's goals and set a clear timeline.
Outcome: a realistic, measurable PoA that fits your Local Organisation's vision, supports sustainable growth and gives you a roadmap for the annual goals.
- Day 1 · 18 September
Leadership
Leadership is about the culture you create, not only holding the gavel. Learn to manage board dynamics, empower your project directors and aim to leave your Local Organisation better than you found it.
Outcome: more self-awareness of your leadership style, specific behaviours to work on, and practical principles and steps to improve team performance and communication.
- Day 2 · 19 September
Recruitment and retention
The “Magnet & Glue” approach: how to attract passionate young changemakers and keep them engaged through meaningful experiences.
Outcome: a practical framework and first action points for your recruitment and retention strategy, with ideas to improve engagement, satisfaction and long-term commitment.
- Day 2 · 19 September
Finance
Build a resilient, transparent budget, diversify your income and manage resources wisely, so your impact outlasts your term.
Outcome: draft documents to start your Financial Plan: budget, cashflow and invoice templates.
- Day 2 · 19 September
Partnerships
Identify, approach and pitch to corporate and community stakeholders, and turn cold outreach into long-term alliances.
Outcome: a draft document to start your Partnership Strategy.
- Day 2 · 19 September
Marketing and public relations
Tell your organisation's story, cut through the digital noise and use PR to boost visibility and attract new opportunities.
Outcome: a draft document to start your Marketing Plan.
- Grand Finale · 29 September
Plans of Action presented
One week after the Academy, every team presents its finalised Plan of Action in an interactive online session, with feedback from experienced mentors and fellow participants. Every board leaves with a validated plan and the momentum to start its year.
Outcome: this session concludes the Academy and officially recognises participants as Academy graduates.
Good to know
- The Academy is free for JCI members. All it asks is commitment.
- To receive graduation recognition, participants must attend all sessions and present their Plan of Action.
- It is more than a training: an investment in the sustainability and growth of Local Organisations across Europe.
The Fall 2026 edition has taken place, so registration is closed. Questions about the program: edc (at) jci.cc.
