The cotton sector was one of the first commodity groups to commit to the flagship ARLP, designed to create leadership capability across the Australian Research and Development Corporations, and CRDC funding guaranteed the participation of candidates from the industry.
In the 34 years since, CRDC and other cotton industry sponsors have collectively supported 49 leaders to undertake the ARLP.
During that time, the number of leadership programs supported by CRDC has also grown. CRDC currently supports a number of leadership initiatives: the Australian Future Cotton Leaders Program, the ARLF’s flagship ARLP and TRAIL Emerging Leaders Programs, and Nuffield Australia scholarships.
A recent review has informed the structure of an additional new trial approach for this year that will funnel applicants towards the leadership and development opportunities best aligned with their industry leadership aspirations, career stage and personal circumstances.
Open to growers, researchers, extension staff and other industry contributors, CRDC’s trial Leadership Development Scholarship will run in 2026-27 and provide funding for individuals to undertake opportunities that align with both their personal development goals and the future needs of the cotton industry.
Scholarships of $2,000 to $25,000 will be available to support approved activities.
“The Leadership Development Scholarship is a short trial of a potential new CRDC approach to leadership investment. Where in the past we have identified programs to support and then found participants, the aim of this trial is to flip this approach – to invite interested individuals to apply with a specific program they have in mind that they would like to complete,” CRDC Managing Director Dr Georgina Pengilley said.
“The aim is to provide flexibility and accessibility for participants and support the development of leaders across different career stages and sectors.
“We are particularly interested in developing diverse leaders with the skills and knowledge to lead positive change.”
Priority leadership areas for CRDC include sustainability and natural capital, profitability, innovation, industry culture, research and development, workforce capability, diversity and inclusion, and cultural change.
The trial also includes a dedicated focus on strengthening capacity in research and extension.
Under the new trial, CRDC’s Leadership Development Scholarships may be awarded to individuals at any stage of their leadership journey, including emerging leaders keen to develop foundational leadership capabilities, experienced leaders looking to increase their impact and influence, and strategic or senior leaders seeking to drive change across organisations, industries and communities.
Eligible programs and activities include the existing programs that CRDC supports, and importantly, also a wide range of additional opportunities - accredited or non-accredited programs, coaching/mentoring or short courses. Provided the program or activity aligns with both the participant and industry needs, CRDC will actively consider it in assessing applications.
The funding on offer is not limited to the program itself – applicants can approach CRDC to cover associated costs, including domestic or international travel and accommodation. CRDC encourages co-investment from the applicant, their employer or a third party to maximise the impact of the scholarship funds.
Scholarship applications are open from September 28 to November 6, 2026.
