Start Your Leadership Journey
Join a network of community leaders, changemakers, entrepreneurs, and advocates who are creating positive change across Salt Lake's west side.
Why Apply?
Leadership Skills
Community Connections
Access to Resources
Mentorship & Support
University Continuing Education Credits
Opportunities to Create Community Impact
How It Works
1
Submit
your application
Complete the online application form and tell us a little about yourself, your interests, and your goals.
2
Pay the
Enrollment Fee
or Apply for Financial
Assistance
Pay the enrollment fee or request financial assistance to reserve your place in the program.
Individuals may qualify for financial aid if they participate in public assistance programs, receive housing assistance, qualify for free or reduced-price school meals, or can otherwise demonstrate financial hardship.
3
Receive Your
Acceptance and
Begin Your Journey
Once your enrollment is confirmed, you'll receive information about your cohort, schedule, and next steps. Then, join a community of leaders, build meaningful connections, and begin creating positive change in your community.
Which Program Are You
Applying For?
Fundamentals
Develop leadership skills, build community connections, and learn how to create positive change.
16 Weeks | Fall & Spring | English & Spanish
workshops
Expand your skills through specialized trainings, resources, and networking opportunities.
Monthly Sessions
startups
Transform an idea into a nonprofit, business, social enterprise, or community initiative.
August–May | Two Semesters | English
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. Westside Leadership Institute welcomes both emerging and experienced leaders. Our programs are designed for anyone who wants to strengthen their leadership skills and make a positive impact in their community.
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No. WLI is open to individuals from all educational backgrounds. You do not need to be enrolled in a college or university to participate.
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Fundamentals and Startups have a $100 enrollment fee. Each Workshop costs $25. This fee helps cover program materials, resources, and participant support.
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Yes. Limited financial assistance is available for participants who demonstrate financial need. Applicants may be asked to submit supporting documentation as part of the financial assistance process.
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Yes. Fundamentals is offered in both English and Spanish to ensure greater accessibility for community members.
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Participants who successfully complete Fundamentals receive three Continuing Education Credits through our partnership with the University of Utah.
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Collaborative, honest, and straightforward. We're here to guide the process, bring ideas to the table, and keep things moving.
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All WLI classes are held in person, and participants are expected to attend and actively engage in each session. Consistent attendance is essential for building relationships, collaborating with peers, and getting the most out of the program experience. Participants may have up to three excused absences during the program, provided they communicate with the instructor in advance and have a valid reason for their absence.
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Fundamentals is a 16-week program offered during the Fall (August–December) and Spring (January–May) semesters. Each class session is 3 hours long.
Workshops are offered throughout the year and focus on specialized leadership, community engagement, and professional development topics. Each workshop session is 3 hours long.
Startups is a two-semester program that begins each Fall and concludes in the Spring, guiding participants from idea development to venture launch and implementation. Each class session is 3 hours long.
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The Startups program is specifically designed to help participants develop and launch community initiatives, nonprofits, social enterprises, and small businesses through mentorship, coaching, and hands-on learning.
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Anyone who is passionate about strengthening their community, developing leadership skills, building meaningful relationships, or creating positive change is encouraged to apply.
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Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Most applicants receive a decision and next steps approximately 2–3 weeks before the start of their selected program. Once accepted, participants will receive information about their cohort, schedule, and enrollment details.