Chicago Network Launches Leadership Program for Women

The Rung program provides early-career professionals with networking support and leadership development opportunities.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Women’s Issues

Bold vector editorial illustration of an ascending steel ladder, representing career growth and professional networking for early-career women. — The Chicago Network has launched The Rung, a leadership initiative for 40 early-career women designed to foster professional growth and networking. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you believe formal professional networking programs are necessary to advance into leadership roles?

The Chicago Network has introduced a new leadership initiative called The Rung, aimed at supporting early-career female professionals. The program selects a cohort of 40 women to participate in professional guidance and networking opportunities.

Why it matters

The program addresses a persistent issue where women often wait until later stages of their careers to build essential professional networks. By fostering connections early, the initiative seeks to increase the total number of women in leadership positions.

The Rung program requires an annual membership fee of $975. The Chicago Network, which hosts the initiative, has been active since its founding in 1979.

The players

The Chicago Network

This is a professional organization consisting of over 550 members that has been supporting women in leadership since 1979.

The Rung

This is a new leadership program hosted by The Chicago Network specifically designed to support early-career female professionals.

The details

Participants engage in a structured network designed to provide career guidance and support throughout their professional journey. The application process is currently active for the inaugural group of 40 women.

The Chicago Network was established in 1979.
Applications for The Rung opened on October 22, 2026.
Applications for The Rung close on December 1, 2026.
The 40 selected participants will be announced in the first week of January 2027.

Culture Shift

This program directly counters the documented trend of women delaying the establishment of professional networks until later career stages. It signals a move toward early-intervention leadership support in corporate environments.

Early-career professionals can now apply for structured mentorship and peer support through this Chicago-based initiative. Applicants should be prepared to pay the $975 annual fee if selected for the program.

The takeaway

Building professional connections early is a vital strategy for long-term career advancement. Aspiring leaders should look for formal programs in their area that provide structured access to established mentor networks.