Emerging Leaders Mentoring Program

The Emerging Leaders Mentoring Program provides guidance and mentoring to emerging professionals in the internal audit, risk management, and IT audit professions throughout the world, helping early-career professionals develop career goals and aspirations, advance leadership skills, and increase self-confidence.

Advance your internal audit career

The Emerging Leaders Mentoring Program is an annual program that accepts applications from August 1 through September 15. Motivated, self-directed early-career professionals interested in professional development and leadership, as well as, internal audit professionals with leadership experience and IIA volunteer experience, are encouraged to apply.

Applications now open

Download the Mentor Handbook Download the Mentee Handbook

Enrollment & eligibility

Accepting applications August 1 - September 15

IIA membership required.
- North America: View membership options.
- Outside North America: Contact your National Institute to obtain membership.
Mentees: 0-9 years of internal audit experience *
Mentors: 10 or more years of internal audit experience *
Applications are reviewed by the Emerging Leaders Mentoring Knowledge Group and The IIA
Mentor-mentee matches are based on: Experience level, industry focus, career goals and objectives

2026 program timeline and expectations

Program kickoff: Pairing emails will go out the week of October 12 and program orientation will be held on October 14
First meeting: After orientation, mentors and mentees should plan to meet before the end of October
Program closeout: April 30, 2027
Time commitment: 1 hour per month with monthly meetings throughout the program (recommended) **
Check-ins: The IIA Mentoring Program will check-in the 1st of every month to ensure connectivity and engagement tracking

Flexible mentoring for internal audit career growth

Use the Mentor and Mentee Handbooks to guide your discussions and strengthen your mentoring relationship
Set your own agendas and meeting cadence
Meet virtually or in person

Now accepting applications!

Applications for the 2026–2027 Emerging Leaders Mentoring Program are now open and will be accepted August 1 through September 15, 2026.

Ready to grow your leadership skills and expand your professional network? Apply today, and be sure to review the 2026 Program Timeline and Expectations to understand key dates, program requirements, and participant commitments.

Appy to the program

Mentoring Program frequently asked questions

The Emerging Leaders Mentoring Program is facilitated by The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) in partnership with the IIA Emerging Leaders Mentoring Knowledge Group (ELMKG).

Yes. Your participation in the mentoring program remains confidential. The IIA does not communicate with participants' employers.

For any questions or concerns, contact The IIA Mentoring Program team.

Program participants are encouraged to give feedback via periodic surveys.