Core Pillars of the Program

  1. Creative Business Foundations

    • Understanding business models for artists and creatives

    • Legal structures: LLCs, sole proprietorships, 501(c)(3), cooperatives

    • Budgeting, bookkeeping, taxes for creatives

    • Branding and marketing for mission-driven businesses

  2. Civic Navigation & Local Policy

    • Permits, licenses, zoning for downtown businesses

    • Parking and accessibility regulations

    • How to work with City Hall (Arts Commission, DCEDC, Planning, etc.)

    • Leveraging the Armstrong Park Cultural District designation

  3. Placemaking & Innovation Activation

    • How to develop and pitch pop-up concepts

    • Building momentum through micro-events and cultural experiences

    • Activating underutilized spaces with art and design (tie-in with oddspace™)

  4. Partnership & Funding Ecosystem

    • Navigating funding: city, state (HOT funds, grants), private foundations

    • Cultural District partnership opportunities

    • Working with local businesses, schools, and churches

    • Fiscal sponsorship models and community crowdfunding

  5. Leadership & Advocacy Training

    • Arts policy basics and local civic engagement

    • Leadership development for creative entrepreneurs

    • Building stakeholder coalitions and advocating for creative space

  6. Field Work & Mentorship

    • Site visits to successful creative enterprises in the region

    • Studio tours, business walk-throughs, peer critiques

    • One-on-one mentor sessions with leaders in the arts, design, and entrepreneurship