Applications for Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast)’s highly anticipated 2026 Gulf Coast Leadership Institute (GCLI) will open on Wednesday, February 25 and close on Wednesday, March 18. Led by faculty from the Leadership Development Institute at Eckerd College, the program develops participants who are prepared to take meaningful action in their communities.  Through hands-on projects and collaborative sessions, GCLI equips attendees with practical skills in leadership and problem-solving. The program brings together individuals from Sarasota, Charlotte, and DeSoto counties to learn from one another and strengthen their ability to lead with intention. Up to 25 participants will be selected for the 2026 class. The program is free for attendees and runs over two months starting in May at Gulf Coast’s Sarasota Philanthropy Center. Candidates can apply online and access the statement of commitment and program overview at GulfCoastCF.org/GCLI.