AKRON, OH (September 21, 2022) – ArtsNow, in collaboration with and support from the Ian Patrick Schwarber Foundation, is proud to announce the Summit County Creative Investment Program. This program will serve as a direct investment in the professional learning of artists and creatives residing in Summit County.

These small grants will be available to professional artists and creatives who are seeking resources to invest in their careers and are open through October 31, 2022.

Examples of eligible expenses include:

• Budget development course for entrepreneurs and creative small business owners
• Leadership development program
• Class or workshop that expands content or craft
• Conference within the professional area of the artist/creative

“In Greater Akron’s Cultural Plan, it was stated, ‘…we believe that artists and creators are core to the health of our city and are beloved community members who deserve the opportunity to make a home in Akron. In a thriving arts ecosystem, all participants have access to the resources they need to succeed in their work, and there are many types of success,’” states Nicole Mullet, Executive Director of ArtsNow. “With this grant and the support from the Ian Patrick Schwarber Foundation, we hope to encourage and support our creative community to grow in their craft and their profession.” 

Grant awards are capped at $2,500 and can be used to cover the registration or admission cost as well as travel reimbursement. Some examples of approved professional learning/credentials can include, but are not limited to: Membership with Cleveland Arts Education Consortium (CAEC), MORTAR at Bounce Innovation Hub, Summit Artspace: Artist as Entrepreneur Institute, Leadership Akron programs, Artist Communities Alliance membership or events, National Art Education Association Annual Conference, the inaugural Midwest Arts Xpo, or Creative Pro Week. 

Grants are also available for certifications such as, but not limited to: Google Project Management Certification, Adobe Animate certification, Adobe CC Design Tools: Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, or Six Sigma Green Belt Certification.

Applications can be found by visiting forms.gle/1WNVAKvPB8zgNcrP9. 

If selected, grant recipients will be asked to share their experiences with colleagues in whatever way makes the most sense for the content. This will be developed with support and collaboration from ArtsNow. Additionally, grant recipients will be asked to attend State of the Arts on December 15^th at the Akron Civic Theatre. (Cost of attendance will be covered by the program.)

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Contact: ArtsNow 
Nicole Mullet, Executive Director 330-203-1606
Nicole@ArtsNow.org

ArtsNow works to leverage the arts and culture in Summit County to support and strengthen the region’s economic and social vibrancy. Learn more at ArtsNow.org