The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for the 2027 On-Ramp Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator program. The On-Ramp Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator is a program designed for Indiana creative entrepreneurs to take charge of their career through a portfolio career model. Participants explore a community-engaged approach to apply their creative strengths and build a sustainable practice based on business concepts. In 2027, On-Ramp will be hosted at three locations around the state, in partnership with local hosts.
The On-Ramp Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator program includes a three-day intensive entrepreneurship and community engagement workshop and the chance to apply for up to $2,000 via a fellowship to put the lessons into action. The program began in 2018, and 281 Hoosier creative small business owners have participated in the program to date. In 2025, a program evaluation was conducted by Measurement Resources Company. Key findings of the evaluation included:
- On-Ramp provides long-lasting gains in knowledge, skills, and intentions in key business areas, including participants’ ability to communicate their unique value proposition.
- Alumni are highly satisfied with the quality and value of the program. On-Ramp improves creative empowerment among participants, and alumni show strong entrepreneurial self-efficacy.
- On-Ramp alumni are growing art-centered businesses in Indiana, employing others, and increasing art-related income, collaborations, and sales.
- On-Ramp alumni enrich the vibrancy of their local communities by serving as educators, mentors, advisors, and connectors.
As a result of the study, the program will be expanding in 2027 to take place at three locations, led by partners. The hosts and locations are:
- Southern Indiana – IU Center for Rural Engagement, April 19 - 21, 2027 (Bloomington)
- Central Indiana – Hannah Ollen and The Contemporary Art Museum of Indianapolis, April 28 - 30, 2027 (Indianapolis)
- Northern Indiana - North Central Indiana Small Business Development Center, May 12 - 14, 2027 (South Bend)
The deadline to apply to participate in the 2027 On-Ramp program is January 15th, 2027 by 4:30PM ET. An Informational Webinar about the program will be held on November 10, 2026 at 6:00PM ET. Register to attend the webinar.
Learn more about the On-Ramp program and how to apply to participate.
The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is an agency of state government that works directly with communities, creatives, and organizations to harness the power of creativity to strengthen Indiana. Through its programs and services, the IAC funds and supports arts experiences, arts education, and the arts economy to enhance the quality of life for Indiana's people and places.