The most overlooked foundation of an API program is the role of business leadership. The absence of business leadership, at best, minimizes the value of an API program and, at worst, turns APIs into bottlenecks that inhibit innovation. Business leaders must understand the transformative potential of APIs due to attributes that differ from traditional goods. These attributes point to different approaches to business strategy from those that leaders may be accustomed to. This report outlines actionable steps for building business leadership in an API program, from securing executive buy-in to measuring business outcomes.