Ready to Run® Denver
Saturday, May 10, 2025
Lowry Conference Center, Denver
About the Program
For the past 25 years, the Center for American Women in Politics at Rutgers University has trained over 4,000 women to run for office, seek appointed positions, and manage campaigns.
Early Bird Registration: $150
Bring a friend and save an additional $25
Registration Fee after April 30: $175
Registration includes meals and all materials.
Ready to Run® attendees walk away with:
- “How to” instructions on running for office
- Fundraising and media skills
- Real-world advice and best practices from experts
- Strategies for positioning yourself for public leadership
- Inspiration to launch a campaign
- A better understanding of party politics
- Internet strategies for political campaigns
Agenda/Schedule
Saturday, May 10, 2025 | Lowry Conference Center, 1061 Akron Way, Building 697, Denver
7:30-8:15am: Registration
8:15-9:45am: Plenary: Welcome and Keynote
10:00am-12:00pm: Morning Track Sessions
Track 1 – Launching Your Campaign
This session provides an overview of the key elements of a campaign, including assessing and establishing oneself as a candidate, developing a campaign plan, structuring a campaign organization, and voter contact.
Track 2 – Finding Your Political Power – Elected or Not, Part 1: Understanding the System
Designed for those who are no ready to run, but want to have an impact on important issues, this session provides the foundation for effective civic engagement, focusing on how government and political parties work in our state. Learn the pathways to influence beyond elected office, including appointments to public boards and commissions, roles within political parties, and key entry points for civic leadership.
12:15-2:15pm: Luncheon Plenary
2:30-3:45pm: Afternoon Track Sessions
Track 1 – Navigating Colorado’s Political Parties for Candidates
The session will highlight the power dynamics of party organizations, building relationships with party leaders, gaining the party’s support, and will address how to respond when the party is not supportive.
Track 2 – Finding Your Political Power – Elected or Not, Part 2: Taking Action
Building on the systems knowledge from Part 1, this session teaches you how to create change through effective advocacy. Learn concrete steps, including identifying your issue, developing solutions, building coalitions, developing advocacy campaign plans, and working with the media. Leave with practical tools to move from understanding to action.
4:00pm – 5:30pm: Plenary: Fundraising for Success
Fundraising is one of the most crucial aspects of a campaign. This interactive workshop cover key components of campaign fundraising, including special emphasis on understanding why people give and the in-person “ask.” The session will also address developing a strategy for your campaign, building a donor list, recruiting and motivating a finance committee, and special events.