ABSTRACT For post-docs pursuing an academic career, the transition to a group leader position can be a notoriously difficult one, not least because the availability of necessary support and training for this varies so greatly between labs and institutions. In an effort to provide an alternative support structure for postdoctoral researchers entering the academic job market, and help build a network of young group leaders in the developmental biology field, Development launched its Pathway to Independence (PI) programme in 2022. Eight PI fellows are chosen annually, not just on the strength of their scientific record and vision, but also on how much they would benefit from the programme's peer-support networks, leadership training, mentorship opportunities and profile-raising features in Development. In this Perspective, I discuss the impact the PI programme has for its fellows, with a particular focus on the inaugural 2023 cohort, as well as the research community more widely.