Mission-Rich Academy Launches First Live Intensive in Western Mass.

SPRINGFIELD — Mission-Rich Academy will host its first-ever live intensive, “The Mission-Rich Experience Live,” on Thursday and Friday, Feb. 12-13, 2026, bringing nonprofit leaders and micro-business owners from across the country to Western Mass. for a two-day, high-touch leadership intensive.

Founded by LaTonia Monroe Naylor, a leadership strategist, author, and longtime regional leader, the intensive reflects more than an event — it represents decades of community-centered leadership. Naylor has spent more than 20 years working directly with families and youth, including 15 years supporting nonprofit leaders and institutions, and nearly a decade advocating for education and systems-level change across the region.

Naylor is also the co-founder of a trusted nonprofit organization serving hundreds of families annually since 2018, and her work has been recognized through multiple local and statewide honors, positioning her as a respected voice in sustainable leadership and community impact.

The two-day convening is designed to help mission-driven leaders strengthen funding access, build sustainable systems, and lead with clarity — particularly during a time of uncertainty. Attendance is intentionally limited to preserve depth of training, with participants leaving with proven frameworks, strategic clarity, and a practical plan they can begin implementing immediately.

“This intensive was created because many mission-driven leaders are doing meaningful work but still struggle to sustain it,” Naylor said. “I participated in leadership programs that strengthened my leadership skills, but they didn’t address how to build a business or nonprofit from infancy. I needed guidance on the strategy, structure, and systems required to build something sustainable and culturally aligned. That gap is what this two-day intensive is designed to address.”

In addition to national participation, Mission-Rich Academy will award 10 leadership scholarships to cover full general admission for Springfield-based micro-businesses, supported through a community partnership with the Latino Economic Development Corp. (LEDC).

“At LEDC, we believe strong businesses are built on more than hustle — they’re built on strategy, systems, and a clear mission,” said Andrew Melendez, founder and executive director of LEDC. “We sponsored 10 local business owners because access to high-level leadership development should not be a barrier. Investing in these founders means investing in long-term economic growth for our region.”

Tickets are now live, with general admission and VIP options available. Because space is limited and pre-event bonus trainings are offered on a one-time basis, early registration is encouraged. Partnership and sponsorship opportunities are also available for organizations and businesses interested in supporting leadership development and long-term community impact.

For event details and ticket information, visit www.missionrichexperience.com.