Application Process

Applications for the 2020 Condensed Signature Program are Open! Apply today!

Please read through all of the information below in its entirety. It is important to have a complete understanding of the application process and training program before you apply. We encourage you to begin your application well in advance of the closing date due to the detailed nature of the application.

Who Should Apply?

Emerge New Jersey seeks Democratic women who are committed to effective political leadership and are interested in running for elected office and who have:

  • Evidence of political leadership experience or potential, and meaningful involvement in the workplace or community;
  • Interest in running for political office;
  • Ability and desire to build effective networks;
  • Ability to articulate a personal political vision;
  • Commitment to full participation and the attendance requirements of the training.

Applicants must be women who are Democrats and who reside in the state of New Jersey. Emerge New Jersey will select up to 20 women from across the state who meet the above criteria and who we believe have the potential to be political leaders.

Emerge embraces diversity and encourages applications from all self-identified women regardless of age, race, color, national or ethnic origin, marital status, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, or physical ability. Our mission to build the bench of Democratic women ready to run for office acknowledges both systemic and historic barriers to running for office as well as the barriers women impose on themselves.

To be considered for the 2020 Emerge New Jersey training program, applicants must complete a written application by Friday, July 10th.

 

Time Commitment

The success of the Emerge New Jersey program depends upon commitment to the program’s entire schedule by each participant. Over the eight weeks, you’ll be expected to complete 33 hours of the core curriculum, 8 hours of cohort bonding, and 6 hours of elective, self-driven, training. Attendance on the first full day of training is mandatory (August 29th, 8:30 am – 2:00 pm), and absence for any reason will result in a deferral to the following year. Please review the schedule below to ensure your availability to attend every training day. 

 

2020 Tentative Training Dates***

Week 1: 

  • Thursday, August 27th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday, August 29th, 8:30 am – 2:00 pm

Week 2: 

  • Thursday, September 3rd, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday, September 5th, 8:30 am – 10:30 am

Week 3: 

  • Thursday, September 10th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday, September 12th, 8:30 am – 10:30 am

Week 4: 

  • Thursday, September 17th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Sunday, September 20th, 8:30 am – 10:30 am

Week 5: 

  • Thursday, September 24th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday, September 26th, 8:30 am – 10:30 am

Week 6: 

  • Thursday, October 1st, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday, October 3rd, 8:30 am – 10:30 am

Week 7: 

  • Thursday, October 8th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday, October 10th, 8:30 am – 10:30 am

Week 8: 

  • Thursday, October 15th, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
  • Saturday, October 17th, 8:30 am – 1:30 pm

 

Interviews and Application Fees

Emerge New Jersey will review completed written applications and select finalists for video interviews. Finalists will be invited to attend an interview with the selection committee.

A non-refundable application fee of $50 is required and must be submitted along with a completed application. The application fee can be paid here.

 

Tuition

The tuition for the condensed signature program is $500 (reduced to reflect online instruction). Payment plans and scholarships are available, and Emerge New Jersey will assist program members with fundraising their tuition if needed. 

If financial concerns are holding you back from completing your application, please reach out to contact@emergenj.org. Financial need should not be a barrier to applying to the program.