Why
Quick readiness check:
You lead or influence a community college, school district, or foundation
You’re ready to build partnerships across education, philanthropy, and government
Your community is open to innovative approaches to college access
COLORADO SPRINGS SHOWS WHAT'S POSSIBLE
In less than five years, D2 Promise went from private seed funding to voter-approved public investment.
This isn't just free college. It’s changing the dinner table conversation from “we can’t afford college” to “which program is a good fit?”
local impact
Seed Funding
$200,000 per site over two years
Fellowship Support
Expert coaching, financial modeling tools, peer network
Timeline
October 2027 cohort launch
Format
Sprints are 2-3 day intensive sessions held in Colorado. Fellows also participate in monthly virtual coaching check-ins between sprints.
WHO SHOULD APPLY
Leaders ready to change their communities
The Fellowship seeks executive-level leaders with the authority and credibility to influence across education, philanthropy, and government sectors.
Ideal Fellows
Institutionally positioned – college presidents, superintendents, foundation/nonprofit CEOs
Bridge-builders – trusted across education, philanthropy, and community sectors
Equity-driven – track record of expanding opportunities for underserved students
Action-oriented – ready to move from planning to launch with urgency and focus
Promising communities
Coalition ready – community college, school districts, and at least one funder aligned
Momentum for change – leadership alignment on Promise as priority
Pathway to public investment – district, state, or voter-backed funding
Workforce aligned – connecting Promise graduates to local economic needs
WHO WE ARE
The Promise Fellowship is guided by leaders who have successfully built and scaled Promise programs in Colorado.
PARTNERS & FUNDERS
Join the movement
Promise programs create the educated, future-ready workforce our communities need. Whether you're a national foundation, family philanthropist, or corporate leader investing in talent development, this is how we build stronger communities together.
Why partners invest in Promise:
Future-ready workforce
Community colleges prepare students for careers that don't exist yet – especially critical as AI reshapes the economy. Promise programs ensure talent pipelines stay strong.
Community leadership
When students succeed, they become the engaged citizens and community leaders who solve tomorrow's challenges. Investment in education is investment in civic health and meaningful work.
Proven innovation
Be part of what works. Promise programs are redefining how communities invest in their future – your partnership helps write that story and shape thought leadership.
Economic impact
Every dollar invested returns $7 in economic value. Graduates earn livable wages, spend locally, and lift entire communities. A rising tide lifts all boats.
Partners at every scale
We're building a coalition that spans national philanthropists to regional corporations to neighborhood businesses. What matters isn't the size of your investment, it's your commitment to communities where everyone has a shot at meaningful work and a good life.
Let's talk
Email us to start the conversation about how you can help transform communities and change students' lives.
