2026 Sponsorship Opportunities
The trusted partner for building future-ready, inclusive executive pipelines. Position your brand at the intersection of leadership, impact, and access.
Shape the Future of Leadership
The Executive Leadership Council (ELC) invites your organization to partner with us during a milestone year, our 40th Anniversary, as we elevate future-ready, high-performing executives and accelerate inclusive leadership across global business.
Our 2026 calendar features high-impact events and programs designed to develop talent from early career to board-ready leaders. Signature convenings include Leadership Development Week (LDW), C-Suite Academy, the CEO GameChanger Conference®, and our premier Recognition Gala. Our offerings provide sponsors with unparalleled access to thousands of influential leaders across the Fortune 1000, including CEOs, C-Suite executives, emerging professionals, and next generation scholars.
This is more than visibility. It is an opportunity to shape corporate culture, build brand equity, and co-create the next era of business leadership.
Sponsorship levels are tailored to fit your strategic goals; whether amplifying your brand, investing in the pipeline, or positioning your existing or emerging leaders. Our packages range from tailored scholarship naming to headlining Gala Week. And your support directly funds our leadership development, scholarship, and community impact initiatives.
Join us in redefining what leadership looks like.
2026 Calendar of Events
2026 Member Meeting
March 18-20, 2026 | Houston, TX
Leadership Development Week
Summer 2026 | Location TBD
C-Suite Academy
Summer 2026 | Location TBD
The ELC Member Reception at The Vineyard
August 2026 | Martha's Vineyard, MA
Summer Executive Workshop:
August 2026 | Martha's Vineyard, MA
Honors Symposium
October 28-31, 2026 | National Harbor, MD
Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium
October 29-30, 2026 | National Harbor, MD
Corporate Board Navigator at Gala Week
October 29, 2026 | National Harbor, MD
CEO GameChanger Conference ®
October 30, 2026 | National Harbor, MD
The ELC Recognition Gala
October 30, 2026 | National Harbor, MD
The ELC Member Closing Brunch
October 31, 2026 | National Harbor, MD
The ELC London Convening
October 2026 | London, UK
Board Directors' Summit
December 2026 | Location TBD
The ELC Programs and Events are inclusive and welcome participants from all backgrounds with an interest in the topics.
The ELC 40th Year Anniversary Sponsor
Chairman's Visionary Sponsor $1M
(one opportunity available)
• Two (2) Chairman tables at The ELC Gala in best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Chairman’s Visionary sponsor award to be presented on The ELC Recognition Gala mainstage
• Up to twenty (20) registrations to any leadership development programs of your choice (upon meeting program criteria)
• Corporate Named Scholarship Cohort of three (3) scholarship recipients
• Special 30-minute preview tour of The ELC Heritage Hall during Gala Week and champagne toast for up to 5 senior level executives and 10 guests hosted by The ELC leadership
• Option for senior executive or The ELC Member to provide onstage remarks on the Gala mainstage (up to one minute)
• Opportunity to speak at one of The ELC’s leadership development programs of your choice (upon meeting program criteria)
• Opportunity for a senior executive or The ELC member to provide keynote opening remarks during Honors Symposium, and The ELC Closing Member Brunch at Gala Week
• Opportunity to feature a custom video showcasing your contribution to our mission, shared across The ELC social media platforms
• One day of branded content takeover on The ELC social media channels
• Private meet and greet with key leaders and honorees during Gala Week
• A dedicated segment in The ELC monthly newsletter highlighting the partnership
• Option to provide video that will be presented during The ELC key events (up to 30 seconds)
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and The ELC Member to participate)
• First right of refusal for dedicated Pre-Gala reception space during Gala Week for up to 30 guests (custom design elements or enhanced décor services are not included and will be the responsibility of the sponsor)
• Option to participate as a career fair exhibitor during Honors Symposium during Gala Week
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• CEO Photo and Letter in Gala Program Book
Join The Executive Leadership Council (ELC) at a defining moment in our history by becoming the exclusive Chairman’s Visionary Sponsor during our milestone 40th Anniversary Year. This premier $1 million sponsorship offers a one-of-akind platform to align your brand with The ELC’s enduring mission to elevate excellence and leadership in business.
As the sole sponsor at this level, your organization will receive yearlong, highvisibility recognition across The ELC’s signature programs and anniversary celebrations, strategic access to The ELC’s influential network of senior executives and corporate partners, and a seat at the table to co-create lasting impact that shapes the next 40 years of corporate leadership.
This is more than a sponsorship, it’s a legacy-defining partnership.
To explore sponsorship opportunities, please complete this form: The
Leadership Development Week
TARGET AUDIENCE
Early to Senior Professionals
OVERVIEW
FREQUENCY
Annually
Leadership Development Week (LDW) consists of six development courses running concurrently, conducted by The ELC’s Institute aimed at building the pipeline of well-prepared and successful executives. Each program builds leadership skills through self-assessment, peer and supervisor feedback, and expert-led sessions.
C-Suite Academy July 2026
Washington, DC
TARGET AUDIENCE
Senior and C-Suite Professionals
OVERVIEW
FREQUENCY
Annually
The C-Suite Academy develops senior executives into transformational leaders through expert-led programming by CEOs, The ELC Members, and ICF-certified coaches. Participants master critical competencies—from Board Service to Executive Compensation—while expanding their professional networks and refining strategies to become game changers within their organizations.
Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium (MLMS)
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center | National Harbor, MD
TARGET AUDIENCE
Mid-Level to Senior Professionals
OVERVIEW
FREQUENCY
Annually
The Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium (MLMS) is an extraordinary two-day professional development conference designed to connect, empower, and celebrate talent across industries and functions. MLMS 2026 will feature transformative mainstage and breakout sessions with influential industry leaders including The ELC Members—executives operating at the highest levels of the Fortune 500. Additionally, MLMS offers participants the opportunity to network with over 1,500 mid-level and senior corporate professionals while also sharpening their leadership skills and gaining actionable tactics to elevate their careers to the next level.
Mid-Level Managers’ Symposium
Member Meeting
March 18-20, 2026
Houston, TX
TARGET AUDIENCE
Exclusive to The ELC Members and invited guests, which include luminaries, influencers, global business and civic leaders.
OVERVIEW
A multi-day program consisting of dynamic panels, leadership development sessions, and network engagement opportunities. This program convenes members of The ELC to discuss timely issues and topics relevant to the global business community. Local business and community leaders are invited to participate in programming and engage with The ELC members.
Exclusive invitations for CEO and two senior executives (non-members) to attend
Exclusive recognition as networking reception sponsor with option for senior executive or The ELC Member to provide brief remarks (up to five minutes)
Brand placement and banner Ad placement in exclusive The ELC member portal (internal to members only)
Member Convening on the Vineyard
August 2026
Martha’s Vineyard, MD
TARGET AUDIENCE
The ELC members and invited guests
OVERVIEW
FREQUENCY Annually
The ELC Member Convening on Martha’s Vineyard provides the ideal setting for members to connect, exchange insights, and build lasting bonds that extend beyond professional boundaries.
The ELC Members FREQUENCY
Annually
OVERVIEW
The ELC Member Closing Brunch offers an intimate gathering where members can forge meaningful connections, share valuable insights, and cultivate relationships that transcend the professional sphere. This exclusive event serves as the perfect capstone to a week of dynamic learning and collaboration.
CEO GameChanger Conference ®
TARGET AUDIENCE
CEOs of The ELC member affiliate companies. CEOs who attend are welcome to invite one The ELC member from their company to join.
OVERVIEW
The CEO GameChanger Conference® is a half-day peer-to-peer experience designed to provide CEOs with strategies to enact systemic and measurable change to advance leaders to Corporate Directors, CEO, C- Suite and senior executive positions to close the representation gaps.
Board Directors’ Summit December 2026
TARGET AUDIENCE
The ELC members and board directors FREQUENCY Annually
OVERVIEW
The ELCs Board Directors’ Summit is an exclusive gathering of The ELC members and guests to advance board readiness, foster strategic connections, and accelerate corporate board representation.
The ELC Scholars Program
TARGET AUDIENCE
Undergraduate and graduate students attending any accredited 2 or 4-year higher education institution.
OVERVIEW
The ELC is committed to building a pipeline of corporate talent by supporting the academic achievement and development of college students. We provide both undergraduate and graduate scholarships on behalf of corporate partners, as well as provide a robust professional development workshop series for the students called Honors Symposium. Since 1995, The ELC’s scholarship program has offered highperforming college students scholarship awards, internships, and unique access to The ELC members, their companies, and our strategic partners. FREQUENCY
Annually
2026 HONORS SYMPOSIUM SPONSORSHIPS
Honors Symposium Lead Sponsor (1 available)
• One (1) Platinum Level table in best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Opportunity to engage the 2026 scholars by hosting a corporate info session, meet and greet, or skill development workshop at Honors Symposium
• Opportunity to participate as a panelist or moderator during an Honors Symposium session
• Logo presentation and verbal recognition during The ELC Recognition Gala program as Lead Honors Sponsor
• Opportunity to provide opening remarks during keynote sessions by company executives
• Branding on scholarship website, social media, and printed/digital collateral
• Premium positioning in career fair exhibitor during Honors Symposium
Pinning Ceremony Sponsor (1 available)
• Opportunity for a senior executive or The ELC member to provide remarks during the Pinning Ceremony
• Reserved seating for up to 10 guests at Pinning Ceremony and Pinning Reception
• Option to participate as career fair exhibitor during Honors Symposium
• Logo presentation and verbal recognition during The ELC Recognition Gala program as the Scholar’s Pinning Ceremony sponsor Scholar Reception Sponsor (1 available)
• Branding at the reception
• Remarks provided by corporate executive
• Reserved seating for up to 10 guests at the reception
• Option to participate as a career fair exhibitor during Honors Symposium
• Logo presentation and verbal recognition during The ELC Recognition Gala program
Career Fair Exhibitor (5 available)
• Opportunity to engage the 2026 scholars
• Branding on Honors Symposium website and registration website
• Logo presentation and verbal recognition during The ELC Recognition Gala progra
Welcome Bag Content Sponsor (10 available) varies
• Opportunity for company logo placement on swag item, subject to program selection alignment and final approval
The ELC Gala Week October 28-31, 2026
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center | National Harbor, MD
2026 THE ELC GALA WEEK SPONSORSHIPS
Gala Week Platinum Sponsor (2 available)
• One (1) Chairman Level table in best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Ten (10) in-person MLMS registrations
• Option to participate in a breakout session during MLMS
$500K
• General Scholarship Fund supporter of two (2) scholarship recipients (Note: If the sponsor contributes at the Diamond Level* ($1M), this benefit is upgraded to a Corporate Named Scholarship Cohort, supporting three (3) scholarship recipients.)
• Opportunity for a senior executive or The ELC member to provide keynote remarks during Honors Symposium
• Option to participate as a career fair exhibitor during Honors Symposium
• Option to provide a 30-second video that will be presented during Gala program & MLMS
• Leaderboard ad on the Gala registration site
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on Gala stage
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• Branding on select Gala Week signage and website
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and The ELC Member to participate)
NOTE
IF THE SPONSOR CONTRIBUTES AT THE DIAMOND LEVEL* ($1M) THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS WILL BE INCLUDED:
• Diamond sponsor award to be presented on The ELC Recognition Gala mainstage
• CEO Photo and Letter in Gala Program Book
• Special 30-minute preview tour of The ELC Heritage Hall for up to 5 senior level executives and 10 guests hosted by The ELC leadership
*Diamond Sponsor benefits are available only if the sponsor secures both eligible sponsorship opportunities.
To explore sponsorship opportunities, please complete this form: The ELC 2026 Sponsorship Interest
The ELC Gala Week October 28-31, 2026
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center | National Harbor, MD
2026 THE ELC GALA WEEK SPONSORSHIPS
Heritage Hall Presenting Sponsor (1 available)
• One (1) Chairman Level table in the best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Five (5) in-person MLMS registrations
$300K
• Private Preview Experience: A 30-minute advance tour of Heritage Hall and champagne toast for up to five (5) senior executives and ten (10) guests, hosted by The ELC leadership
• Option to design an interactive or branded experience within Heritage Hall, aligned with the Gala’s theme and subject to The ELC approval
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on stage
• Branding on select signage and event website
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• One (1) ad included in the digital Gala program book
Elevate & Connect Reception (1 available)
• One (1) Chairman Level table in the best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Ten (10) in-person MLMS registrations
• Ten (10) additional invites to the Elevate & Connect reception
• Option to provide a 20-second pre-recorded audio played intermittently during reception
• Option for senior executive or The ELC Member to provide remarks during reception (up to one minute)
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• Branding on step & repeat, select signage and event website
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership during program and on Gala stage
$300K
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center | National Harbor, MD
2026 THE ELC GALA WEEK SPONSORSHIPS
• One (1) Chairman Level table in the best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Ten (10) in-person MLMS registrations
• Exclusive branding on charging stations throughout the venue
• Branding on select Gala Week signage and website
• Option to provide a 30-second video that will be presented during Gala program
• Branded footer placement on the Gala Week microsite
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on Gala stage
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• One (1) Silver Level table in best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Five (5) in-person MLMS registrations
• Branding on the Elevate & Connect main bar and branded menu showcasing two (2) exclusive company cocktails
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• Branding on select signage and event website
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership during program and on Gala stage
The ELC Recognition Gala
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center | National Harbor, MD
TARGET AUDIENCE
Top CEOs and senior executives from Fortune 500 companies, industry influencers, thought leaders, elected officials, entertainers and community leaders.
OVERVIEW
Nearly 2,000 guests, including top CEOs, senior executives, thought leaders, and policymakers, join The ELC to celebrate visionary leaders and companies driving business impact through inclusive leadership. The Gala also honors our scholars and the legacy of our 19 visionary founders, offering companies a powerful platform to champion future-ready, high performing talent.
• One (1) Chairman Level table in best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Option to provide a 30-second video that will be presented as attendees are seated for the Gala program
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on stage
• Branding on select signage and event website
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and The ELC Member to participate)
• One (1) Platinum Level table in best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on stage
• Branding on select signage and event website
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and The ELC Member to participate)
To explore sponsorship opportunities, please complete this
The ELC Recognition Gala October 30, 2026
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center | National Harbor, MD
RECOGNITION GALA SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Gala Spirit Sponsor (1 available) $400K
• One (1) Chairman Level table in best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Option to provide 1-minute pre-recorded video to welcome guests to The ELC’s Recognition Gala
• Option to provide a 30-second video that will be presented as attendees are seated for the Gala program
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on stage
• Branding on select signage and event website
• Branding of one (1) bar at both the Pre-Gala Networking Reception and the Post-Gala Networking Reception
• Branded bar menu showcasing two (2) exclusive company cocktails
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and ELC Member to participate)
Pre-Gala Networking Sponsor (1 available) $250K
• One (1) Chairman Level table in the best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Exclusive sponsor of the private, by invitation only, VIP Reception
• Option for senior executive or The ELC member to provide brief remarks during VIP Reception (remarks not to exceed 1 minute)
• Option to provide a 30-second video that will be presented during Gala program
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on stage
• Branding on select signage and event website
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and ELC Member to participate)
To explore sponsorship opportunities, please complete this form: The ELC 2026 Sponsorship
The ELC Recognition Gala October 30, 2026
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center | National Harbor, MD
RECOGNITION GALA SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Networking Sponsor (1 available) $200K
• One (1) Platinum Level table in the best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Option to provide a 30-second video that will be presented as attendees are seated for the Gala program
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on stage
• Branding on select signage and event website
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and ELC Member to participate)
Entertainment Sponsor (1 available) $350K
• One (1) Chairman Level table in the best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Option to provide a 1-minute pre-recorded video to introduce the mainstage entertainment at the Gala
• Option to provide a 30-second video that will be presented as attendees are seated
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on stage
• Branding on select signage and event website
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and ELC Member to participate)
The ELC Recognition Gala October 30, 2026
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center | National Harbor, MD
RECOGNITION GALA SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Post-Gala Networking Sponsor (1 available)
• Two (2) Chairman Level tables in the best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
$400K
• Option to provide a 1-minute pre-recorded video to welcome guests to the Post-Gala Networking Reception, immediately following the Gala
• Option to provide a 30-second video that will be presented as attendees are seated for the Gala program
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on stage
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• Branding on select signage and event website
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and ELC Member to participate)
Post-Gala Entertainment Sponsor (1 available)
• One (1) Chairman Level table in the best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
$300K
• Option to provide a 1-minute pre-recorded video to introduce the entertainment at the Post-Gala Networking Reception
• Option to provide a 30-second video that will be presented during Gala program
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on stage
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• Branding on select signage and event website
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and ELC Member to participate)
The ELC Recognition Gala October 30, 2026
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center | National Harbor, MD
RECOGNITION GALA SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Streaming Sponsor (1 available) $200K
• One (1) Platinum Level Table in the best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on stage
• Streaming branding in Scholar’s Gala, Gala mainstage and Gala Networking Lounge
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• Branding on select signage and event website
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
Gala Networking Lounge Sponsor (1 available) $200K
• One (1) Platinum Level Table in best available location at the time of sponsorship commitment
• Twenty (20) tickets for Gala Networking Lounge
• Opportunity for a senior level executive or The ELC member to provide up to one-minute Welcome remarks at the Gala Networking Lounge
• Option to provide a 30-second video that will be presented as attendees are seated in Gala mainstage
• Acknowledgement of sponsorship by The ELC leadership on Gala mainstage
• Logo included in walk-in graphics loop on screens
• Logo included in sponsors graphic loop to be shown at least once during the dinner program
• Branding on select signage and event website
• One (1) ad in the digital Gala program book
• Invitation to CEO GameChanger Conference® for CEO + 1 The ELC Member (CEO attendance is required for both CEO and ELC Member to participate)
Disclaimer: The Gala Networking Lounge provides an exclusive space where guests can enjoy an intimate and lively reception while viewing the Recognition Gala.
To explore sponsorship opportunities, please complete this form: The ELC 2026 Sponsorship Interest
POTENTIAL SPONSORS
If you are interested in any of the packages, please complete The ELC Sponsorship Interest Form . Contact sponsorship@elcinfo.com with questions. Please include your name, position, company name, email address and phone number when emailing sponsorship@elcinfo.com .
40 YEARS OF THE ELC
DISCLAIMER
*NOTE: While The ELC is committed to upholding the advertisement of the benefits outlined above in good faith, benefits are subject to change prior to contractual obligation should The ELC deem such changes necessary. Any revisions to the terms after full execution of a formal contract or terms & conditions agreement will be communicated in advance by The ELC in writing.
Beverage and/or product sponsors who offer brands not provided by the venue for a given program are accountable for the expenses related to product placement, product shipping and corkage fees.
Sponsorship benefits will not exceed the value of the sponsorship investment.
We do not offer a la carte or customized sponsorship packages without a minimum spend of $300K.