Now more than ever, Memphis needs talent. Our businesses need talent to thrive, our government needs talent to solve problems, our schools need talent to educate our youth, our communities need talent to innovate and work for a better future. We are forging a prosperous and vital new Memphis by attracting, developing, activating and retaining talent.

Our History

1979

The roots of the New Memphis Institute reach back to the Memphis Jobs Conference. Called by then Tennessee Governor Lamar Alexander, the Jobs Conference is credited with rebooting Memphis’ economy and launching an era of exciting leadership.

1986

The Jobs Conference gave birth to New Memphis Institute’s predecessor Goals for Memphis (GFM). The emphasis on leadership and community action are still hallmarks of New Memphis Institute today.

1988

Literacy Foundation launched by GFM.

1989

Mid-South Minority Purchasing Council (now known as the Mid-South Minority Business Council) formed by GFM.

1993

Partners In Public Education launched by GFM as part of Memphis 2000, a community-wide educational effort. GFM raises $1 million and launches the Memphis Diversity Institute to enhance race relations in the business community through training and education.

1994

Plan for Downtown Development designed by GFM results in the revitalization of the Center City Commission and a Downtown Leadership Council.

1997

Leadership Summit convened by GFM. Participants include Governor Don Sundquist, Mayors Willie Herenton and Jim Rout, Jack Belz, Greg Duckett, Bill Dunavant, Barbara and Pitt Hyde, Mike Rose and Fred Smith. GFM launches the Leadership Development Intensive, a new executive leadership training program in partnership with the internationally known Center for Creative Leadership, marking the beginning of GFM’s focus on leadership.

2004

Goals for Memphis becomes The Leadership Academy, a one-stop-shop for comprehensive leadership development. The Leadership Academy launches the Fellows program for high-potential, emerging leaders.

2006

Nationally recognized by the Center for Creative Leadership for the Fellows program’s unique community action component.

2008

Launches an on-going Speak Out campaign to promote livable communities, public safety and education efforts in Memphis.

2009

Launch of Memphis: The Summer Experience, a program that engages collegians to help them choose to launch their careers in Memphis.

2012

The Leadership Academy re-brands to become the New Memphis Institute, our city’s talent engine.

2013

Launch of Embark, developed to equip promising 20-somethings with the training to set a course for their career and the opportunity to network with others ready to make a difference in the community.