Local leaders interested in advancing complete streets, downtown revitalization, and other local initiatives that increase opportunities for walking, biking, and rolling to everyday destinations can apply to the 2025 cohort of the Champions Institute from Smart Growth America.

Smart Growth America launched the first Active People, Healthy Nation℠ Champions Institute in 2020, which is a technical assistance and peer learning program for local leaders. Since then, the program has supported three cohorts and 48 Champions in total—consisting of mayors, city councilmembers, commissioners, and other local elected officials from 24 different states.

Champions will learn from national experts and each other in a collaborative and supportive environment. Participants will use their new knowledge and resources to develop an action plan specific to their own communities to begin implementing their own local initiatives in line with the goals of the program.

To apply, and to see eligibility information and other details, check out the Champions Institute webpage here.