The Global Thought Leadership Institute (GTLI) is a not-for-profit institute at APQC advancing the professional practice of thought leadership through standards, certification, research, education, and community.
Thought Leadership Is Everywhere—Credibility Is Not
GTLI was created to meet this moment.
AI has lowered the barrier to content creation, making it harder than ever to distinguish rigorous insight from noise. Organizations are investing heavily in thought leadership, yet many struggle to prove ROI, establish trust, and evaluate quality—while executives continue to rely on insights to guide high-stakes decisions.
Why the Global Thought Leadership Institute Exists
GTLI serves as the independent body helping organizations define what credible thought leadership looks like, how it should be produced responsibly, and how it delivers real business value.
Our Misson:
Advocating for the standardized practice, production, and promotion of trusted thought leadership.
What We Do
Standards
Defining what credible, high-quality thought leadership looks like.
Certifications
Building capability through training and ongoing development
Research
Delivering evidence-based insights on trust, AI, consumption, and ROI.
Community & Education
Connecting practitioners and leaders through events, training, and collaboration.
Who GTLI Serves
For Thought
Leadership Producers
GTLI helps producers build credibility, differentiate in the AI era, prove ROI, and advance professional practice.
For Thought Leadership Consumers & Decision-Makers
GTLI helps leaders quickly evaluate credibility, reduce risk, and apply insights with greater confidence.
Why Join the GTLI Community?
Align with globally recognized standards
-
Build and signal credibility in the AI era
-
Access frameworks, research, and best practices
-
Earn professional certification and recognition
-
Connect with peers shaping the future of the field
-
Help define the standards guiding the profession forward
Governance & Leadership
GTLI is guided by a Board of Advisors composed of senior leaders actively producing and investing in thought leadership. The Board helps define standards, share best practices, and ensure GTLI remains practitioner-led and relevant.
Bringing the Community Together
GTLI hosts conferences and events—including the GTLI Symposium—bringing the community together to explore emerging trends, AI implications, and the future of trusted insight.
