The Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute (AEI)

Broward Cultural Division, The Community Partnership for Arts and Culture (CPAC) and ArtServe announce the return of the very successful Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute (AEI). The program, to be presented on four Saturdays in June, will be held at ArtServe,1350 E. Sunrise Blvd. in Fort Lauderdale. Artists of all disciplines are encouraged to attend, including but not limited to sculptors, illustrators, metalworkers, writers, dancers, jewelers, musicians, performance artists, media/filmmakers, photographers, designers and all interdisciplinary artists. Artists residing in any county are invited and welcome to attend.

AEI is a course of study designed to assist individual artists by cultivating and advancing their business skills, and helping them to strengthen their operating infrastructure and expand their business. To date, more than 500 South Florida artists have graduated from the Institute, and many with exceptional success stories that follow. AEI will be presented from 9AM – 6PM on June 4th, 11th & 18th and the Business Plan Clinic and Workshop on June 25th, 9AM – 2PM., and will offer a curriculum of 20 different sessions over the four Saturdays.

Registrants will receive an AEI course book; an indispensable resource for artists. Developed by CPAC, the course book features exercises and readings to prepare for each session, and is tailored to the specific needs of artist entrepreneurs.

Designed to help artists operate in the marketplace more successfully, the AEI course curriculum covers all aspects of developing an artistic business. It helps participants develop a personal brand, develop strategies for communicating with target markets, raise capital and identify a variety of tools for protecting one’s work legally. AEI offers critical support, enabling artists to contribute to the vitality of the larger urban arts and culture sector. Sessions include a mix of lectures, panels, group discussions and practical exercises.

The Business Plan Clinic’s topics will guide participants through preparation of a simple business plan, an essential tool for any artist. In addition, participants will learn how to work effectively with lenders to obtain financial support.

Participation costs is $100 and includes light refreshments and free parking. For members of ArtServe, registration is $75. RSVP Online. For more information contact Adriane Clarke, at 954-357-7530.