DNC NextWave Regional Bootcamps

Training the Next Generation of Campaign and State Party Staff

The DNC NextWave Regional Bootcamp is a new, free training program that serves to strengthen the pipeline of the next generation of campaign and party staff, and prepare them to win races up and down the ballot for 2026 and beyond.

This three-day, in-person training program provides participants with specialized training based on their campaign experience level, and connects them with other campaign talent and professionals in their region. Four NextWave Regional Bootcamps will be held throughout the country in 2026.

Participants are placed into one of two tracks to maximize their experience at NextWave. Track placements are based on applicants’ demonstrated experience with professional campaign work.

  1. Campaigns 101: for current or aspiring field organizers, fellows, and campaign associates with less than two cycles of experience who are looking to strengthen their skills and get exposure to new aspects of campaign and state party work.
  2. Management Track: for mid-level and senior campaign and state party professionals who understand the technical aspects of campaign work but are looking to expand their skills as managers and leaders in the Democratic ecosystem.

Throughout the program, participants will have the opportunity to network with other attendees and trainers, and apply what they have learned through a competitive challenge.

The DNC is now accepting applications for the NextWave Western Regional Bootcamp in Phoenix, AZ! Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, and early applications are encouraged.

NextWave Western Regional Bootcamp

Phoenix, AZ – Now Accepting Applications!

  • May 7 – May 9, 2026
  • Eligible states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

Are you a current or aspiring campaign or state party professional in the West? Want to receive invaluable training and make connections with other campaign talent in your region?

Apply to NextWave AZ!

*The application will be open until Tuesday, April 14, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

Live outside of the West, but want to hear about future NextWave Regional Bootcamps? Please sign up for the DNC National Training Department Newsletter to hear about these programs as they are announced.

Newsletter sign up

Midwest: To Be Announced

  • Summer 2026
  • Eligible states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

East: To Be Announced

  • Summer 2026
  • Eligible states: Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

South: Charlotte, NC – This program has concluded.

  • March 12 – March 14, 2026
  • Charlotte, NC
  • Eligible states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.

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