The Santa Maria Valley Chamber is initiating its Candidate Academy, a non-partisan program designed to equip local citizens with the practical tools needed to run for office and manage a campaign.

“As a champion for a stronger Santa Maria Valley, the chamber is partnering with Pacific Campaign Solutions to provide a real-world roadmap for local leadership,” organizers said.

The program focuses on the mechanics of winning local elections covering everything from filing requirements and campaign strategy to fundraising and media relations.

“Our mission is to be a convener of leaders and influencers,” said Suzanne Singh, vice president of Economic Development & Government Affairs of the Santa Maria Valley Chamber.

“By providing this high-level training, we are ensuring that those who wish to serve our community have the strategic and technical knowledge to run effective, compliant, and message-driven campaigns,” Singh said.

The initiative will open with an informational pre-mixer, 5:30-7 p.m. April 8 at Wine Stone Inn, 255 W. Clark Ave., Orcutt. That will be followed by an educational Candidate Academy Workshop, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. April 24 in Shepard Hall at the Santa Maria Public Library.

Program highlights:
● Targeted curriculum tailored to Santa Maria-area offices, election rules, and local demographics.
● Strategic training including voter targeting, budgeting, digital communications, and earned media strategies.
● Instruction led by experienced campaign professionals with a track record of success across California.

For more information or to register, visit www.santamaria.com, or call 805-925-2403.