Purpose and Impact

Why Should Conservation Leaders Rethink Leadership?

The Conservation Leadership Program is more than just a learning experience; it’s a transformative journey. Developed by The Ivey Academy at Ivey Business School in partnership with the Centre for Land Conservation (CLC), the program blends Ivey’s expertise in leadership, strategic thinking, and sustainability with the deep sector insights of CLC.

With guest speakers from the conservation sector and subject matter experts, the program equips you with the skills and mindset to tackle complex environmental challenges — and challenges you to see yourself in a new light. Built on the belief that entrepreneurial thinking drives meaningful impact, the experience pushes you to rethink your approach to leadership. You’ll develop the confidence to overcome obstacles, think more strategically, negotiate effectively, and lead your teams with purpose.

The Conservation Leadership Program was developed in partnership with the Centre for Land Conservation, with the support of generous donors. If you are an individual or organization interested in supporting the Conservation Leadership Program, please contact jdenniston@ivey.ca.

Participant Profile

Who Should Attend

The Conservation Leadership Program is designed for mid-to-senior-level emerging leaders from across the conservation sector. The experience reflects the wide range of roles and organizations shaping Canada’s conservation landscape. Ideal participants:

• Are at the forefront of biodiversity conservation in Canada
• Come from diverse backgrounds, bringing unique perspectives and experience
• Want to grow as leaders and embrace innovation to advance their organization’s mission in the face of evolving environmental challenges

Each cohort is thoughtfully selected to ensure a balanced mix of perspectives, roles, and voices from across the sector.

What are the key learning outcomes?

• Entrepreneurial Thinking: Embrace risk, think big, and pursue ambitious goals despite uncertainty. Learn to identify opportunities where others see obstacles, leverage limited resources creatively, and adopt a growth-oriented approach that’s essential for scaling conservation efforts.

• Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making: Anticipate challenges, identify emerging trends, and cut through complexity. Develop the skills to make future-focused decisions, prioritize what matters, and allocate resources effectively.

• Collaborative Negotiations: Build strong partnerships, secure critical funding, and advocate for your conservation priorities. Gain confidence in navigating diverse stakeholder conversations with clarity and purpose.

• People Leadership: Lead with vision and character. Build trust, communicate with impact, and motivate diverse teams to navigate complexity and deliver on your mission.

How to apply

Applications open April 1, 2025, and close May 15. 

We've designed a two-step process that allows us to review all applications together so we can shape the cohort intentionally. Looking at everyone at once helps us create a group that brings a wide range of experiences, sectors, and leadership perspectives. There are only 25 seats, and based on early interest, we expect more applications than we can accommodate.

In addition to the application, we're also asking for two additional items to help us get a sense of who you are, what's driving you, and how this program fits into the work you're doing.

Step 1: Submit Your Application Online

You will be required to complete a short registration form and upload a completed:

• Résumé
• Letter of intent (250 to 500 words). Use either of these prompts to guide your letter:
  • How will this program help you lead meaningful change in your organization or community?
  • Why is this the right opportunity for you right now?

We're not looking for perfectly crafted essays. We just want to know what's driving you to take this step.

• Subsidy interest

The application form will ask if you'd like to be considered for a tuition subsidy. Most people will select yes. These subsidies are in place to support access and ensure the cohort reflects a broad mix of leaders. For a few larger organizations, we may follow up to talk about full-fee participation.

Step 2: Selection and Confirmation

• After the May 15 deadline, a Selection Committee will review all applications.

We're looking for a mix of Indigenous leaders, community changemakers, and professionals from larger organizations. Everyone brings something different, and that balance matters.

• Applicants will be notified by the end of June 2025.

If selected, you will receive an email outlining the next steps in the process.

*No invoices will be issued in advance since tuition may be adjusted depending on subsidy eligibility.

We've designed this process to be inclusive, intentional, and transparent. The goal isn't to gatekeep—it's to ensure we're bringing together the right people to do meaningful work together.

Return on Investment

Fees

$1,500 CAD

The Conservation Leadership Program is a $10,000 experience, made widely accessible thanks to the generous support of donors and funding partners. Most participants will qualify for a subsidized fee of $1,500, subject to eligibility.

The program fee includes all learning materials, hotel accommodations, and meals. Fees are tax-exempt.

FAQs

When are new program dates announced?

Contact us to receive a notification of new dates for specific programs.

What is the application process?

Applications open April 1, 2025, and close May 15. 

We've designed a two-step process that allows us to review all applications together so we can shape the cohort intentionally. Looking at everyone at once helps us create a group that brings a wide range of experiences, sectors, and leadership perspectives. There are only 25 seats, and based on early interest, we expect more applications than we can accommodate.

In addition to the application, we're also asking for two additional items to help us get a sense of who you are, what's driving you, and how this program fits into the work you're doing.

Step 1: Submit Your Application Online

You will be required to complete a short registration form and upload a completed:

• Résumé
• Letter of intent (250 to 500 words). Use either of these prompts to guide your letter:
  • How will this program help you lead meaningful change in your organization or community?
  • Why is this the right opportunity for you right now?

We're not looking for perfectly crafted essays. We just want to know what's driving you to take this step.

• Subsidy interest

The application form will ask if you'd like to be considered for a tuition subsidy. Most people will select yes. These subsidies are in place to support access and ensure the cohort reflects a broad mix of leaders. For a few larger organizations, we may follow up to talk about full-fee participation.

Step 2: Selection and Confirmation

• After the May 15 deadline, a Selection Committee will review all applications.

We're looking for a mix of Indigenous leaders, community changemakers, and professionals from larger organizations. Everyone brings something different, and that balance matters.

• Applicants will be notified by the end of June 2025.

If selected, you will receive an email outlining the next steps in the process.

*No invoices will be issued in advance since tuition may be adjusted depending on subsidy eligibility.

We've designed this process to be inclusive, intentional, and transparent. The goal isn't to gatekeep—it's to ensure we're bringing together the right people to do meaningful work together.