About the PPP Readiness Program
The PPP Readiness Program is the Academy's flagship certification program, designed for entrepreneurs who want to successfully partner with governments and navigate public-private partnerships. The fully virtual program consists of four 12-week courses covering procurement processes, credibility building, smart city ethics, and funding mechanisms.
Each course is structured around modules, and each module includes multiple classes combining expert instruction, real-world case studies, and applied learning. Participants gain the practical skills to build trust, align with public priorities, evaluate impact, and scale solutions through public-sector engagement.
Ideal for entrepreneurs and mission-driven leaders, the program empowers participants to move beyond transactional sales and toward long-term partnerships that drive meaningful, measurable change in communities around the world.
Pedagogical Approach:
Each module follows a consistent instructional format:
Major Program Deliverables:
Upcoming Course: Credibility & Capital - Earning Trust and Funding
(April - June 2026)
In today’s innovation landscape, trust is your strongest currency—and credibility is key to unlocking public and private capital. This course empowers participants to craft compelling narratives, lead with integrity, and secure funding through ethical, mission-driven strategies. From working with media to building trust with government partners, participants will learn how to communicate their value in ways that resonate across sectors. Real-world examples and practical tools will help participants build legitimacy, align with public priorities, and stand out to funders. Whether you're preparing for your first pitch or scaling into new markets, this course is your guide to gaining influence without compromising values. Designed for entrepreneurs, changemakers, and innovators ready to lead with both purpose and persuasion
Earn LinkedIn Certifications
As you complete courses, you earn progressive certifications that showcase your PPP expertise. Each course in the PPP Readiness Program consists of three modules. Upon completing all three modules and the required coursework within a course, participants earn a digital certification badge that can be added to their LinkedIn profile.
These LinkedIn badges serve as verified credentials that signal to cities, government agencies, procurement officers, and investors that you understand public-sector partnerships and are prepared to collaborate effectively with the public sector.
Become PPP Certified
Trusted by Governments
Certification signals to city officials that you are a skilled and reliable collaborator who understands their priorities.
Enhanced Credibility
Stand out in the smart city ecosystem with a credential that validates your knowledge and professionalism.
Stronger Partnerships
Build trust and confidence with stakeholders who value your certified expertise in addressing urban challenges.
Proven Expertise
Show that you’ve mastered the strategies necessary to create impactful solutions for communities.
Certification Levels
PPP Readiness Level Bronze
3 modules and their quizzes completed
PPP Readiness Level Silver
6 modules and a Pilot Project Plan completed
PPP Readiness Level Gold
9 modules and a Case Study Report completed
PPP Readiness Level Diamond
All 12 modules and a City Pilot Project completed
Number of PPP
Certifications Issued
189
Start-Ups Working
Towards Certification
137
Massachusetts Training Reimbursement
Eligible Massachusetts-based companies with 1-100 W-2 employees can get reimbursed for PPP Readiness Program costs. Leading Cities will guide you through the simple application process.
Monthly Curriculum