Jacksonville’s Young Professionals Network & Leadership Development Program
NextUp JAX is the JAX Chamber’s young professionals network and leadership development program for emerging professionals in Jacksonville. Members build professional skills, expand their networks, and lead community initiatives that help attract, retain, and engage Northeast Florida’s top talent.
Photo by Member Mark Krancer, Kram Kran Photo
Built for Jacksonville’s Young Professionals
As one of Jacksonville’s most active young professionals groups, NextUp JAX turns ambition into impact. Members don’t just attend networking events. They run committees, shape regional initiatives, and connect directly with the business leaders defining the future of Northeast Florida. Whether you’re new to the region or already building your career here, NextUp JAX is where Jacksonville’s next generation of leaders comes together.
NextUp JAX serves young professionals ages 21 to 40 who live and work across Jacksonville and the greater Northeast Florida region.
It’s built for:
- Early- and mid-career professionals looking for a real leadership program, not just another mixer.
- Newcomers to Jacksonville looking for a young professional network and a quick way to build local relationships.
- Emerging leaders who want hands-on experience through committees and community initiatives that feed directly into the region’s civic and business life.
- Professionals seeking development opportunities beyond their day job, including mentorship, skill-building, and access to established Jacksonville leaders.
Member Benefits and Professional Development Opportunities
Membership delivers professional development opportunities and networking you won’t find on your own:
- Free or discounted business networking events in Jacksonville
- Networking with community and business leaders across Northeast Florida
- Professional development programming and skill-building throughout the year
- Updates on the key issues shaping the region
- Access to the full slate of JAX Chamber benefits
Member Dues
Annual membership is $100 for employees of JAX Chamber members and $200 for non-members. Dues support the program’s goals and impact and help underwrite NextUp JAX’s signature events and initiatives.
Where Members Build Leadership Experience
- Community Engagement
- Membership
- Professional Development
- Public Policy
- Service and Giving
- Social and Cultural
Committee work is where members build leadership skills, take on real responsibilities, and connect with peers across industries.
Signature Events & Networking
Upcoming Events
NextUp JAX Museum Mixer
Dive Into Duval
Volunteer with NextUp JAX at Tech Coast Conference
Small Business Leader of the Year
Each year, the JAX Chamber recognizes the entrepreneurial spirit of Jacksonville’s small businesses with the Small Business Leader of the Year (SBLY) Award. The Council nominates one member to represent them at the JAX Chamber’s Annual Breakfast and to compete for the overall SBLY title.
Want to Nominate Someone?
A nominee must:
- Be a member of the JAX Chamber in good standing
- Be an owner, partner, or shareholder of at least 25% of the business
- Be active in the daily management of the business
- Be established locally in the same business for at least three years
- Demonstrate professional business acumen and leadership
- Have gross revenues of less than $5 million per year for the previous three years
Click here to access the application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can join NextUp JAX?
NextUp JAX is open to professionals ages 21 to 40 who live or work in Jacksonville. You do not need to be a JAX Chamber member to join, though Chamber-member employees pay lower dues.
What do NextUp JAX dues cover?
Annual dues are $100 for employees of JAX Chamber members and $200 for non-members. Dues support the program’s initiatives and help underwrite its signature events.
What is the time commitment?
Members generally choose their level of involvement. Most engage through at least one committee plus signature events throughout the year.
Ready to Be Next Up? Become a Member
NextUp JAX is where Jacksonville’s next generation of leaders builds careers, expands networks, and shapes the region’s future. Become a member today.