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.

Lead South 2026-2027 Application Information

Applications open annually in Mid-July

Timeline:

• Applications Now Open

Click Here to Apply!

• 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

Digital Brochure

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