Running USA Opens Nominations for 2026 Emerging Leaders Program

May 20, 2025

Participants to attend 2026 Industry Conference Presented by haku in St. Louis, MO

May 20, 2025 (May 2020) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – Running USA announced today that nominations are now open for the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program. This program is designed to support, empower and amplify the voices of the next generation of industry leaders, particularly those from minority and/or women-owned businesses.

Participants selected for the 2026 Emerging Leaders Program will receive no-cost attendance and travel expenses to attend the highly anticipated 2026 Industry Conference presented by haku, taking place in St. Louis, Mo. from Feb. 1-3. This opportunity allows program participants to network with industry professionals, gain insights from seasoned experts, and develop the skills needed to build successful running-related businesses.

“The Emerging Leaders Program not only benefits those who are selected, but it equally benefits every single attendee of the Running Industry Conference presented by haku,” said Jay Holder, Executive Director of Running USA. “Whether it’s your first year or thirtieth year in the running event industry, there is something we can all learn from the emerging leaders.”

The Emerging Leaders Program aligns with Running USA’s mission to strengthen and grow the endurance industry by providing education, advocacy and development resources. By focusing on under-represented organizations, Running USA is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion within the running community.

New this year, nominations for potential program participants will be accepted through July 31, 2025. Nominees will then be invited to apply. You can nominate a candidate here – individuals are welcome to nominate themselves.

The Emerging Leaders program is fully funded by Running USA, a 501(c)3, mission-focused non profit. To make a donation that will help support this effort, click here.

For more information about the program or questions, contact Michael Clemons at michael@runningusa.org.

About the Industry Conference

Since its origins as a small gathering of Running USA’s founders in Southern California in 2004, the Running USA Industry Conference presented by haku is the best-attended, most esteemed gathering of running industry professionals from around the world. Moving locations each year, the conference has been held in Los Angeles, San Diego, Savannah, Houston, San Antonio, Denver, New Orleans, Puerto Rico, Las Vegas, Orlando, Louisville and heads to St. Louis for the 2026 event.

About Running USA

Running USA is a non-profit that serves as the leading trade organization for the running industry in North America and hosts the nation’s preeminent industry conference annually. Through education, research, best practices and data, Running USA is committed to supporting and facilitating growth, diversification and excitement in running communities everywhere. We promote networking and idea-sharing between event organizers, sponsors, vendors and athletes. Running USA is a member of a global alliance of organizations focused on the betterment of the global running community including the Running Industry Alliance and European Athletics. For more information, visit runningusa.org.