Arena Academy Des Moines FAQ

Have a question about our first Arena Academy in Iowa this February? Start here.
Lee Pedinoff
Academy Illustration by Julia Rothman

As Politico reported recently, we’re launching Arena Academy, an in-person training to give you the skills, knowledge, and tools you need to build winning campaigns and movements.

Here are a few frequently asked questions about Arena Academy.

1. Who is the Academy designed for?

It’s designed for aspiring campaign managers, organizing directors, communications staffers, finance directors, and organizers. Participant tracks will be tailored to these roles, but all will incorporate a heavy emphasis on digital, data, leadership, and management.

2. Where and when is the first Academy?

Our first Arena Academy runs from February 22 – 26th, and will take place at the Iowa Events Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

3. When should I plan to arrive and depart?

We’ll start at 12:00pm on Friday, February 22, so you can arrive that morning.

We’ll wrap up at 4:00pm on Tuesday, February 26, so you can depart that evening.

4. How much does the Academy cost?

The cost of registration for all five days of Arena Academy is $300. We’ll offer full and partial need-based scholarships as part of the application process — and your response to this question will not impact your eligibility.

100% of funds raised via registration fees will be applied to Arena Academy scholarships.

5. Which track should I apply to?

  • Campaign Manager: This track is for you if you are looking to manage a state legislative or congressional race, and have at least one cycle of prior campaign experience.
  • Communications Director: This track is for you if you are looking to step into a role crafting a campaign’s core messaging, running the press shop, and directing rapid response.
  • Organizing Director: This track is for you if you are looking to step into a role managing the organizing program of a campaign. You’ll learn how to target voters, build voter universes, establish metrics and goals, and manage a team of organizers to persuade and turnout voters.
  • Organizer: This track is for you if this is your first campaign cycle, and you are interested developing and managing teams of volunteers to amplify the campaign’s message and move voters.
  • Finance Director: This track is for you if you like the idea of building high powered networks and managing their capacity to fund a robust campaign.
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Stay up to date with news and resources from the Arena community

By providing your cell phone number you consent to receive periodic updates from Arena, including automated text messages and phone calls. Txt HELP for help, STOP to end. Msg & Data rates may apply. See our Privacy Policy.