Running USA Opens Applications for 2027 LEAD Collective

September 1, 2026

Endurance focused leadership initiative will offer participants yearlong development program and the chance to experience the 2027 Running USA Industry Conference presented by haku

Sept. 1, 2026 /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – Running USA is now accepting applications for the 2027 LEAD Collective, a changemaking initiative designed to highlight, support and elevate professionals who are helping shape the future direction of the running industry.

Each year, Running USA selects emerging leaders from minority and/or women-owned businesses, as well as individuals from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds within the industry, to participate in the program. For 2027, the selection committee will choose at least ten members to join the yearlong initiative.

“The LEAD Collective personifies education, elevation and engagement which are key tenets to our mission at Running USA. We look forward to the continued growth of this initiative,” said Shawn K. Sullivan, Executive Director of Running USA.

The LEAD Collective — standing for Leadership, Equity, Advocacy and Development — builds on Running USA’s commitment to creating pathways for diverse leaders to thrive within the running industry. Participants are connected with mentorship, professional development, industry visibility and opportunities to contribute to Running USA programs and initiatives throughout the year.

Selected members will also receive complimentary registration to the 2027 Industry Conference presented by haku, scheduled for Jan. 31-Feb. 2 at the M Resort in Henderson, NV, along with covered hotel accommodations and a travel stipend.

At the globally esteemed event, LEAD Collective members will have opportunities to connect directly with leaders from across the running industry, build relationships with fellow emerging professionals and participate in programming. The experience continues after the conference through mentorship, education, collaboration and connection to an expanding network of LEAD Collective alumni.

The LEAD Collective reflects Running USA’s broader mission to engage, educate and elevate the running industry while ensuring that a wider range of voices and perspectives have opportunities to contribute to its future.

Professionals interested in joining the 2027 class are encouraged to apply and share their professional experience, involvement in the running industry, goals for participating in the program and more by Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2026. Apply here.

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.