The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) announced it has awarded $60,000 to 30 creative entrepreneurs to fund arts projects around the state through the agency’s On-Ramp Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator program.
On-Ramp is a three-day accelerator course for Indiana-based creative entrepreneurs to foster their business skills, followed by the opportunity to apply for a $2,000 fellowship to put the learning into action. Each funded project will support the pursuit of a clearly defined business goal that also supports the entrepreneur’s community.
“The On-Ramp 2024 cohort demonstrates the talent, skill, and entrepreneurial spirit that is on display in every corner of the Hoosier state,” said Jordan Adams, Artist Services Program Manager with the Indiana Arts Commission, “We are proud to support the growth of these entrepreneurs who are working to build a more vibrant Indiana.”
Marion Country resident Brandon Meeks, a bass player, will utilize fellowship funds to support and grow the “3rd Sunday Jazz Concerts Series”, which provides free, high-quality jazz performances that engage the community and inspire the next generation of jazz enthusiasts. Through this work, the artist will grow his professional network and broaden his portfolio.
Christina Hollering, a visual artist from Boone County, will employ fellowship funds in the creation of a community mural focused on native Indiana herpetofauna. This project will enhance community engagement, foster collaboration with local experts, and promote the appreciation of local ecosystems. The project will help the artist reach her creative career goals by expanding her mural portfolio and honing her skills to attract new clients.
The On-Ramp Creative Entrepreneur will pause for program evaluation in 2025, allowing the program to grow to better meet the needs of Indiana, as informed by the 2023-2024 Artist Needs Assessment. The Indiana Arts Commission has evaluated the results of the Artist Needs Assessment and is now ready to share findings and outline future programming and services for Indiana artists that is directly informed by the feedback.
Read the project descriptions for each of the 30 entrepreneurs.