2026 Leadership Institute

 The potato industry's Leadership Institute brings together outstanding potato growers and industry representatives for eight days of training and professional development. The annual program is held in February with activities in a potato-growing region and Washington, D.C.

Participants will receive an overview of the local and national potato industry, including some of the challenges and issues beyond the production sector and tours of local agricultural businesses. 

Attendees will then travel to Washington, D.C, and hear from public policy and communication experts and practice how to effectively deliver key messages. Participants join other growers from their state to educate members of Congress on the U.S. potato industry and policies impacting it.

The 2026 Leadership Institute will be held February 17-26, 2027, beginning in the state of Washington and ending in Washington, D.C.

Beyond the 8-day program in Washington state and Washington, D.C. the Leadership Institute has been expanded to include a Capstone project. The Capstone will require participants to participate in a virtual session (June 2027) and complete a team project to be presented virtually to the Potato LEAF Board of Directors (August 2027). The top project team(s) will be invited to present their project(s) during the Potato Expo 2028 at the Orlando World Center Marriott in January 2028.   

Applications will be accepted beginning August 1, 2026.

Interested participants can apply for a scholarship to cover the registration fee. Preference will be given to applicants who lack a state or local organization. Scholarships will be given based on your application form during the review by the selection committee. Local or state organizations are encouraged to find sponsors for funding attendees of the Leadership Institute. To apply for a scholarship, simply answer a few additional questions during the application process.

For questions about the program, email us at info@pleaf.org.