About:

In 1986, the South Texas Business Partnership, formally the South San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, recognized a need to identify, develop, and motivate potential leaders in the community to address the needs of the Southside of San Antonio, and the City South Leadership Academy was formed. It evolved over the past 35+ years and remained as strong and lively as the community it served.

In 2022, the brand and organizational evolution of South Texas Business Partnership (SoTx) was initiated as a larger strategic effort to position both the Southside and South Texas region as a unified and strong destination for investment. Building on its core business model focused on emphasizing leadership development, expanding access to resources, and leveraging opportunities, SoTx expanded its mission to the south. The rebranding from CSLA to LEAD South aligns with the goal of attracting the next generation of leaders, visionaries, and businesses in not only San Antonio but the entire South Texas region.

During the eight-month program, LEAD South participants are exposed to a wide array of venues, knowledgeable speakers, and educational tours. Participants develop greater personal leadership skills to use and take back to their places of employment and throughout the community. Additionally, participants gain confidence through public speaking opportunities, and organizational skills are strengthened through teamwork and group activities.

If you are interested in being a part of a rewarding, hands-on program and are willing to be a committed member of our organization and mission, then LEAD South is right for you!

Annually Lead South welcomes a diverse group of people who are enthusiastic, motivated, and ready to focus on their personal and professional growth.

The South Texas Business Partnership (SoTX), together with our Board of Directors and the Lead South Steering Committee, is proud to announce the 2025–2026 Lead South Cohort. This dynamic group of leaders represents the future of South Texas—bringing together diverse experiences, talents, and perspectives to strengthen our region. We look forward to their journey through the program as they engage in professional development, community leadership, and collaborative learning that will leave a lasting impact on our business community and beyond.

This outstanding group of 24 leaders represents a vibrant cross-section of industries, experiences, and communities across South San Antonio and the 27-county South Texas region.

Over the next eight months, this cohort will engage in immersive learning experiences, expert-led discussions, and a brand-new capstone project—gaining the insights and connections to drive transformational change across our region.

Meet our Lead South Steering Committee — the dedicated leaders guiding and shaping the success of the 2025–2026 cohort. Their vision, commitment, and expertise help ensure the program continues to inspire and empower the next generation of South Texas leaders. Thank you for your leadership — we look forward to a great year ahead!

Lead South 2026-2027 Application Information

Applications open annually in Mid-July

Timeline:

• Application opens mid-July 2026

• Application closes Mid-August 2026

• Applications reviewed and cohort announced August 2026

• Lead South program begins (8 months) with Retreat in Mid-September 2026

• Program fees due no later than end of September 2026

South Texas Business Partnership
3128 Sidney Brooks St, San Antonio, TX 78235