AAPI LEAD Foundation

Mission: AAPI LEAD (Leadership Elected and Appointed) facilitates meaningful participation of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) in the American democratic process, including serving in elected and appointed offices at all levels of government, in all jurisdictions, and from all political backgrounds.

Vision: To foster a future where AAPIs stand as a united and influential force in shaping policy, leading communities, and strengthening democracy at every level.

Over the past two decades, AAPI representation in public office has increased dramatically. More than 1,500 AAPI officials now serve across federal, state, municipal, and educational institutions. The demographic trajectory is clear: AAPI communities are among the fastest-growing in the United States, reshaping civic, economic, and political landscapes.

However, the infrastructure supporting AAPI governance has not kept pace with this growth.

While organizations exist for candidate training, issue advocacy, and civic engagement, there is no fully integrated national institution that supports AAPI officials across the full lifecycle of leadership — from first election through sustained governance impact. If AAPI leadership is to mature into coordinated governing power, permanent infrastructure is required. This is why we exist.

AAPI LEAD is the only national, nonpartisan membership organization dedicated to supporting AAPI elected and appointed officials across the full lifecycle of leadership — from first election to sustained impact.

What We Do:

• National Summit - The nation’s only cross-sector convening for AAPI elected and appointed leaders, bringing together 300+ leaders for training, community, and strategy.
• Regional Policy Institute - One-day gatherings that deepen regional knowledge and advocacy through policy briefings, workshops, and site visits—building collaboration and localized impact.
• Learning Pods
  • Small peer-based groups offering flexible, ongoing leadership development with monthly sessions and guest experts—creating real-time problem solving and a community of practice.
• Mentorship Program - A year-long initiative matching AAPI officials across geographies and generations, fostering mutual support, skill-building, and solidarity to combat isolation and burnout.
• Newly Electeds Bootcamp - In partnership with NALEO, a two and a half-day intensive training equipping first-time officials with the tools, skills, and relationships to lead effectively from day one.
• Resource Library & Community Hub - A private online platform where members connect, share resources, exchange best practices, and stay engaged. This includes a centralized, digital hub of research, toolkits, and model policies, curated to strengthen the effectiveness, equity, and innovation of AANHPI leaders in governance.