TAAF Board Accelerator

Elevating exceptional leaders for service in corporate boardrooms.

In public companies across America, boards make decisions that shape strategy, risk, and sometimes influence the very future of our nation. Yet as Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders grow into an already vital force shaping the U.S. workforce and economy, too many companies are overlooking an extraordinary pool of leadership talent.

With the TAAF Board Accelerator, made possible by a $1 million grant from the Walter and Shirley Wang Foundation, we’re making it easier for companies and search firms looking to fill board positions to easily connect with a network of vetted, highly-qualified executive candidates.

Our Approach

Despite making up 13% of U.S. professionals and an even higher share of the workforce in key sectors, the leadership potential of AAPIs has been persistently overlooked in the boardroom. AAPIs held just 5.4% of Fortune 500 board seats in 2022, even less than their 7% share of the U.S. population.  

To close the gap, the TAAF Board Accelerator establishes a vetted pool of highly-qualified executive talent and works closely with decisionmakers to prepare aspiring candidates for consideration.

01 Build a pool of board-ready candidates

We identify AAPI executives who are board-ready and sharpen their skills for potential positions—so they are easier to evaluate and advocate for.

02 Activate our network

We engage current and former board members and senior executives to create mentorship opportunities, accelerate referrals, and increase the visibility of exceptional candidates in real searches.

03 Partner with search firms

We collaborate with leading executive search firms to ensure high-quality candidates are discoverable, vetted, and considered for open opportunities.

04 Publish research that moves decision-makers

We will produce new research that helps boards and search firms act with clarity.

This initiative is made possible by

The Walter and Shirley Wang Foundation

Get Involved

Get in touch with us at boardaccelerator@taaf.org to:

Nominate a candidate

Recommend a board-ready AAPI executive for consideration.

Raise your hand

Submit your information to be considered for relevant board opportunities.

Partner with TAAF

Work with us to develop the next generation of AAPI corporate directors.