Candidate Training

Trainings are at no cost to Wisconsinites who share Wisconsin Progress’s Mission and Values

Getting Ready to Run Training

Thinking about running for office — or helping someone you believe in win? This two-hour training is the perfect place to start. Getting Ready to Run equips potential candidates and campaign volunteers with the foundational knowledge to launch a strong local or state-level campaign. 

Participants will learn the core steps of building a campaign — from developing a strategy and assembling a team to connecting with voters and managing resources effectively. We’ll also cover what you can (and can’t) do before officially filing, so you can move forward with confidence and stay in compliance. 

By the end of this session, you’ll understand the building blocks of a winning campaign and leave ready to take your first steps toward victory.

To request in-person or virtual GRTR training, contact Becky.

Advanced Local Elected Training

Whether you’re preparing to run for office or step into a key volunteer role, this six-hour, hands-on training will give you the skills, strategies, and confidence to lead a winning state or local campaign. Participants will dive deep into every critical element of modern campaigning, including: 

Field Strategy – Master the art of direct voter contact and build a data-driven plan to reach your win number. 

Communications – Craft a powerful message, navigate earned and paid media, and leverage social platforms to amplify your voice. 

Finance – Learn the essentials of campaign compliance and fundraising to power your campaign from start to finish. 

Campaign Best Practices – From scheduling and safety to building your team and executing a strong Get Out the Vote (GOTV) plan, you’ll gain the tools to keep your campaign organized, energized, and on track. 

By the end of this training, you’ll leave with a clear understanding of how campaigns work, the confidence to lead in any role, and the practical tools to turn political ambition into electoral success.

Filing to Run: Navigating Campaign Paperwork with Confidence 

Filing to run for office can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. This focused training will walk local candidates step-by-step through the essential paperwork required to get on the ballot, including the Campaign Registration Statement (CF-1) and Nomination Papers. We’ll demystify the process, answer common questions, and highlight the details that can make or break a successful filing. 

Designed to take place before the spring signature collection period, this session ensures you’re fully prepared to file correctly, avoid common mistakes, and start your campaign on the right foot.

Request Training

We love going on the road, but due to the costs this incurs, we are unable to add additional training locations unless we can count on at least 10 attendees. If you have a need for an additional Getting Ready to Run training or an Advanced Local Campaign Training, please email us with the subject marked as “Training Request” so that our staff may assist you in setting up the desired training.

Do You Have a Question About Running?

Are you running for office, or thinking about running for office and need help or want to talk to our staff? Fill out our Candidate Interest Form, and let's talk!