After a year’s hiatus, BOARDway Bound, ArtsWave’s signature professional development program, is now taking applications. The program provides all the tools necessary to become a successful board leader within the arts, while offering a built-in networking opportunity across companies. BOARDway Bound blends directed learning and classroom interaction, led by a cross-section of business and arts leaders in the Greater Cincinnati community. The program culminates with the opportunity for candidates to sit on an arts board.

The program, comprising six 2.5 hour sessions beginning is September, is held at ArtsWave offices. It targets new board candidates and current board members seeking development training. The first session enables candidates to hear directly from arts organizations looking for new board members in an elevator speech-marathon session. Information on best practices, industry trends, and the Greater Cincinnati arts scene is shared over the course of the program. Workshops include presentations by arts leaders, panel discussions, and case studies. Topics range from fundraising and marketing to understanding arts budgets and nonprofit governance. In the final session, candidates meet with 15-20 arts groups in a fast-paced, speed-dating approach.

BOARDway Bound has placed nearly 300 candidates on various arts boards throughout the region. Candidates have come from a wide variety of organizations, including The Business Courier, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital & Medical Center, Duke Energy, GE Aviation, Kroger Company, Macy’s, PNC Bank and many more. Applicants are accomplished and motivated business professionals who wish to engage in leadership opportunities within the region’s arts sector. Participants typically have minimal board experience, and are seeking professional development in governance best practices. All participants must devote the necessary time and engagement needed to complete the program.

The program costs $775 and is generally underwritten by the employer. Scholarships may be available on an as-needed basis. Applications for this selective program are due May 26.