Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute (AEI)
Build a Sustainable Creative Career
The Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute (AEI) is back and reimagined for today’s creative economy. Assembly for the Arts and COSE are partnering to equip Greater Cleveland’s artists and creative entrepreneurs with the tools, business knowledge, and professional network needed to grow thriving creative careers.
Through a highly interactive cohort experience, participants gain practical strategies for strengthening their creative practice, generating income, building a sustainable business, and connecting with fellow artists who understand the unique opportunities and challenges of creative work.
Applications Open: November 13, 2025
Applications Close: December 19, 2025
Cohort Launch: January 12, 2026
About the Program
The Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute is a four-week business development program designed specifically for artists, makers, and creative entrepreneurs who are ready to take the next step in their professional journey. A select cohort of 30 participants will engage in eight dynamic learning sessions led by experienced creative business owners, industry experts, and thought leaders.
AEI combines practical business education with peer learning and real-world application. Participants leave with actionable tools they can immediately implement while building relationships that support their growth long after the program ends.
Whether you’re launching a new creative venture, refining your business model, or seeking sustainable growth, AEI offers a supportive environment to strengthen both your artistic practice and entrepreneurial skills.
Practical Business Skills
Learn strategies and systems that help transform creative talent into a sustainable business.
Expert-Led Learning
Gain insights from successful creative entrepreneurs and business professionals who understand the realities of the arts sector.
Supportive Peer Network
Collaborate with fellow artists and makers who share your ambition, challenges, and goals.
Membership Resources
Learn about the programs, services, and benefits available through Assembly for the Arts and COSE.
Ecosystem Connections
Build relationships with organizations, resources, and leaders across Cleveland’s creative and entrepreneurial communities.
Long-Term Growth Tools
Develop a stronger foundation for growing, scaling, and sustaining your creative business.
AEI is designed for working artists and creative entrepreneurs who are:
- Actively building or growing a creative practice or arts-based business
- Interested in business education tailored specifically to creatives
- Looking for a supportive network of peers, mentors, and collaborators
- Ready to take their creative enterprise to the next level
Artists from all disciplines are encouraged to apply, including:
- Visual Arts
- Literary Arts
- Music
- Performance
- Film & Media
- Digital Arts
- Design
- Multidisciplinary Practices
- And more
AEI Cohort Schedule
AEI consists of eight sessions delivered over four weeks. Sessions meet on Mondays from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and Wednesdays from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, with one Tuesday session due to the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday.
Session Dates:
- Monday, January 12, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday, January 14, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Tuesday, January 20, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday, January 21, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Monday, January 26, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday, January 28, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Monday, February 2, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Wednesday, February 4, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Contingency Date: Monday, February 9, 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM (if needed due to weather or scheduling conflicts).
Presented in Partnership with:
Funded by:
