Creative Investment Program
The Creative Investment Program, proudly presented by ArtsNow with support from the Ian Patrick Schwarber Foundation, empowers artists and creatives in Summit County. This initiative allows artists and creatives to pursue professional development opportunities, fostering growth and enhancing skills within the local creative community. Additionally, this year introduces a unique matching donation opportunity for investors. Every dollar you invest in this program will be matched by Knight Foundation, up to $1 million. We hope you will consider investing in the future of creatives and artists today!
Applications
Applications will open September 1st, 2024 and close October 1, 2024. Applicants will be notified in early November.
Hear from 2023 Investment Recipients
Program Benefits
Eligible participants can use grant funds, up to $2,500, to cover various professional development expenses, including:
- Budget Development Courses: Tailored for entrepreneurs and creative small business owners.
- Leadership Development Programs: Designed to enhance leadership skills within the creative sector.
- Classes and Workshops: To expand knowledge in specific content areas or craft.
- Professional Conferences: Relevant to the artist’s or creative’s field.
These grants are designed to support professional artists and creatives seeking resources to further their careers and enhance their professional capabilities. The program ensures that the local creative community has the necessary tools and opportunities for growth and success.
Grants can be applied towards memberships, courses, and certifications such as:
Examples of Eligible Memberships and Events:
- Akron Black Artist Guild
- MORTAR at Bounce Innovation Hub
- Summit Artspace: Artist Launchpad
- Torchbearers
- Artist Communities Alliance
- National Art Education Association Annual Conference
- Arts Impact Ohio Conference
Examples of Eligible Certifications:
- Google Project Management Certification
- Adobe Animate Certification
- Adobe CC Design Tools: Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign
- Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
About the Ian Patrick Schwarber Foundation
The Ian Patrick Schwarber Foundation is a 501(c)(3) that is founded on the principles that Ian Schwarber lived his life. We are left here to honor those principles through not only his own words but through our actions. We are a dedicated group of individuals that will look to make Ian’s voice heard through not only his family but the community he so loved. We are committed to creating a portal in which people can network, donate, and sponsor projects in our community in the way Ian would have done.