11/09/2025
The LAUNCH to EXCELence Leadership Academy is a six-month, state-sponsored leadership program that connects early childhood, community engagement, and workforce development. Originally developed on the Gulf Coast when Ingalls Shipbuilding recognized the value of building brains from birth, LAUNCH now serves leaders across Mississippi who understand that strong early foundations build strong economies.
This year, the cohort is completely funded through state appropriations.
Who Should Apply:
Chambers of Commerce & Economic Developers: Strengthen your region’s future workforce by addressing early childhood as economic infrastructure.
Business & Industry Leaders: Learn how supporting families with young children drives retention, reliability, and growth.
Superintendents, Principals & School Leaders: Connect early learning to long-term academic success and community partnerships.
City & County Officials: Shape policies that attract and sustain working families.
Health & Human Services Professionals: Link early health, child care, and family wellness to community vitality.
Early Education & Child Care Leaders: Gain the leadership, advocacy, and collaboration tools to expand your program’s reach.
Faith-Based & Nonprofit Leaders: Build cross-sector coalitions that meet real family needs.
State & Federal Program Managers: Align local efforts with statewide impact for children and families.
Why It Matters: Mississippi loses an estimated $673 million annually due to childcare challenges. Parents of young children represent the state’s largest untapped workforce. LAUNCH equips leaders to bridge business, education, and community solutions that change that trajectory.
If you live or work in Mississippi and want to strengthen families, children, and our economy, apply for LAUNCH to EXCELence. Applications are due November 30.
Application with information and commitments: https://form.jotform.com/252884938907173
Thank you for your help getting the word out about this transformational program!
