We encourage you to begin your application well before the closing date due to the detailed nature of the application.
Who Should Apply?
Emerge South Carolina, seeks Democratic women and non-binary folks who are committed to effective political leadership and are interested in running for elective office and who have:
- Evidence of political leadership experience or potential and meaningful involvement in the workplace or community;
- Interest in running for political office;
- Ability and desire to build effective networks;
- Ability to articulate a personal political vision;
- Commitment to full participation and the attendance requirements of the training.
- Applicants must be women who are Democrats and who reside in the state of South Carolina.
Emerge South Carolina will select 20-25 candidates from across the state who meet the above criteria and who we believe have the potential to be political leaders.
Emerge embraces diversity and encourages applications from all women and non-binary people regardless of age, race, color, national or ethnic origin, marital status, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, or physical ability. Our mission to build the bench of Democratics ready to run for office acknowledges both systemic and historic barriers to running for office and the barriers women impose on themselves.
To be considered for the 2025 Emerge South Carolina training program please look for an application here by March 15, 2025.
Time Commitment
The success of the Emerge South Carolina program depends upon commitment to the program’s entire schedule by each participant. Over the six-month period, approximately 70 program hours are scheduled. Some time outside of regularly scheduled trainings will be necessary for homework and training preparation. While emergencies sometimes arise, attendance at the first day of training is mandatory and absence for any reason will result in a deferral to the following year. Please review the schedule below to ensure your availability to attend every training day.
2026 Signature Training Dates
Thursday, January 22, Evening Virtual Orientation
Saturday, January 24, Greenville
Sunday, January 25, Greenville
Saturday, February 21, Virtual
Sunday, February 22, Virtual
Saturday, March 21, Charleston
Sunday, March 22, Charleston
Saturday, April 25, Virtual
Sunday, April 26, Virtual
Saturday, May 16, Columbia
Sunday, May 17, Columbia Graduation Day
2026 Boot Camp Training Dates
Wednesday, June 24, Evening Virtual Orientation
Friday, June 26, TBD
Saturday, June 27, TBD
Sunday, June 28, TBD
Interviews
Emerge South Carolina will review completed written applications and select finalists for in-person interviews. Finalists will be invited to attend an interview with the selection committee.
Application Fee
A non-refundable application fee of $35 is required and must be submitted along with a completed application. Application waivers are available upon request.
Tuition
Tuition for the Signature program is $750. Tuition for Boot Camp is $350. Payment plans are available and Emerge South Carolina will assist program members with fundraising their tuition if needed. Financial need should not be a barrier to applying to the program.
The Signature program takes place in various parts of the state one weekend each month, so travel and overnight accommodations may be necessary depending on your proximity to trainings. Boot Camps are one long weekend and will likely be held in Columbia. Emerge South Carolina will endeavor to assist with supporter housing when needed. Travel costs are not covered by the program.
If financial concerns are holding you back from completing your application, please reach out to Executive Director Allison Terracio at allison@emergesc.org Financial needs should not be a barrier to applying to the program.
Applications Open Now for 2026 Signature Program
