If you've been considering working with a leadership coach but aren't sure how to fund it, you're not alone. Many professionals, particularly those in higher education and leadership roles, want to invest in professional coaching but struggle with how to ask their department or employer to cover the cost.
The good news? Many organizations already offer funding for professional development, and coaching often qualifies. With the right approach, you can make a strong case for employer-funded leadership coaching that benefits both you and your institution.
In this post, I'll walk you through the best ways to secure funding for leadership coaching—and how to craft a compelling request that makes it easy for your department to say yes.
Want to make the request process simple? Download my plug-and-play email template to request coaching funding from your department.
Where to Start: Researching Available Funding Sources
Before you ask for funding, it's helpful to know where your employer might already have money allocated for professional development. Many organization, including academic institutions, have funds available—you just need to know where to look.
Check Your Human Resources (HR) Department
HR often oversees professional development budgets. Visit your HR webpage or speak with the HR representative who handles employee development to see if coaching is covered under existing programs.
Review Your Employee or Faculty Handbook
Many institutions outline available professional development opportunities in their employee or faculty handbooks. Look for language that mentions training, mentorship, or coaching. Even if coaching isn't explicitly listed, you can position it as a growth opportunity that aligns with these categories.
Explore Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Benefits
Some organizations offer coaching as part of their mental health or EAP benefits. If your institution provides access to coaching through an EAP, you may be able to use those sessions at no additional cost. If unsure, ask HR for clarification.
Talk to Peers & Supervisors
Has anyone in your department received funding for coaching, training, or similar programs? If so, use that precedent to support your request. If coaching isn't common, ask about other forms of professional development they've seen funded, and position your request accordingly.
Need help making your case? Download my plug-and-play email template to take the stress out of requesting for leadership coaching funds.
Making the Case: How Coaching Benefits Your Institution
Once you've identified where funding might come from, it's time to frame your request in a way that highlights how leadership coaching benefits both you and your department.
Align with Your Institution's Strategic Plan
Most academic institutions and organizations have a strategic plan that outlines key goals and priorities. By linking your coaching request to institutional priorities, you increase the likelihood of approval.
For example: If leadership development, retention, or professional growth is part of your institution's strategic plan, emphasize how coaching directly supports those objectives.
Reference Annual Performance Reviews or Evaluations
If your recent performance review highlighted areas for growth (such as leadership, communication, or conflict resolution), position coaching as a solution.
For example: "My most recent review highlighted a need for stronger communication skills. Leadership coaching would help me refine those skills, benefiting both my leadership effectiveness and the department's overall goals."
Leverage Hiring or Promotion Negotiations
If you're moving into a new leadership role, this is an ideal time to request coaching as part of your transition. Employers often want to set new leaders up for success, and coaching provides structured support.
For example: If you're negotiating a leadership position, you might say, "To ensure I transition effectively into this role, I'd like to work with a professional leadership coach to refine my executive presence and strategic planning skills."
Want to streamline your request? Download my ready-to-send email template to ask for coaching funding.
How to Make Your Request Persuasive
📍Keep it Concise & Direct
When requesting funding, be clear about:
What you're asking for (leadership coaching)
Why it benefits you AND your department
How much it costs
📍Choose the Right Timing
Timing matters. Request coaching funding during performance reviews, budgeting periods, or when taking on new leadership responsibilities.
📍Provide a Coaching Overview
Your department may not be familiar with leadership coaching, so include a brief description of the coach's qualifications and how their expertise aligns with your goals.
For example: "Dr. Amber Kinser is a leadership coach specializing in executive presence, professional communication, and conflict management. Her coaching packages include bi-weekly virtual sessions and ongoing between-session support to ensure real progress.
Make the request easy with my pre-written email template. 👇🏽
Next Steps: Secure Funding & Start Your Coaching Journey
Asking for leadership coaching isn't about requesting a personal perk—it's about investing in your growth to become a stronger, more effective leader for your institution.
What to Do Now:
Identify potential funding sources (HR, strategic plans, performance reviews, EAPs).
Align your request with institutional goals to show impact.
Use my email template to streamline your request. Download it here.
Be prepared to follow up. If your request isn't approved immediately, ask what additional steps you can take.
Ready to take your leadership to the next level?
Schedule a free consultation to explore how leadership coaching can help you grow.
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