The ArtsNow Creative Investment Program 2024 is an initiative designed to empower artists and creatives in Summit County, Ohio. Supported by the Ian Patrick Schwarber Foundation, this program aims to foster professional development opportunities that enhance skills and promote growth within the local creative community. The program offers grants of up to $2,500 to eligible participants, allowing them to pursue various professional development activities. Additionally, this year introduces a matching donation opportunity, where every dollar invested in the program will be matched by the Knight Foundation, up to a total of $1 million.

The primary purpose of the Creative Investment Program is to support professional artists and creatives in their career development. The program encourages applicants to seek resources that will help them enhance their professional capabilities. Eligible uses of the grant funds include budget development courses tailored for entrepreneurs, leadership development programs, classes and workshops to expand knowledge in specific areas, and attendance at professional conferences relevant to the artist's or creative's field.

Funding from the Creative Investment Program can be utilized for a variety of professional development expenses. This includes memberships to organizations such as the Akron Black Artist Guild and the National Art Education Association Annual Conference, as well as certifications like the Google Project Management Certification and Adobe CC Design Tools. The program is structured to ensure that local creatives have access to the necessary tools and opportunities for their growth and success.

Eligibility for the grant is primarily focused on small businesses and individual artists within Summit County. The program is designed to support those who are actively engaged in the creative sector and are seeking resources to further their careers. There are no specific matching requirements for applicants, making it accessible for a wide range of individuals and organizations.

Submission requirements for the grant include a completed application form, which can be found on the ArtsNow website. Applicants will need to provide details about their proposed professional development activities and how the grant funds will be utilized. The application process is straightforward, aimed at ensuring that all interested parties can easily apply for funding.

Evaluation criteria for the grant will likely include the relevance of the proposed activities to the applicant's professional development, the potential impact on the local creative community, and the overall feasibility of the project. The program aims to support initiatives that demonstrate a clear benefit to the artist and the broader community.

The deadline for submitting applications for the ArtsNow Creative Investment Program is October 1, 2024. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the ArtsNow website for more information and to access the application form. This program represents a valuable opportunity for artists and creatives in Summit County to secure funding for their professional development and contribute to the vibrancy of the local arts community.