Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute (AEI)
The Artist as an Entrepreneur Institute (AEI) is back — and re-imagined for today’s creative economy.
COSE and Assembly for the Arts are partnering to empower Greater Cleveland’s artists and creative entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and community needed to grow sustainable, thriving creative careers.
About the Program
AEI is a cohort-based learning experience designed specifically for working artists and small business owners in the arts and culture sector, who are ready to take the next step in their creative practice. Over four weeks, a select group of 30 artists will participate in 8 highly interactive sessions led by experienced creative business owners, industry experts, and thought partners from Assembly and COSE.
This program blends practical business skill-building with peer connection and real-world application — helping artists confidently navigate the business side of their work without sacrificing creative vision.
What Participants Gain
- Actionable business skills for creative careers
- Expert-led workshops and real-world guidance
- A supportive cohort of fellow artists and makers
- Information on COSE and Assembly for the Arts membership resources and benefits
- Connections to Cleveland’s creative and entrepreneurial ecosystem
- Tools to grow, scale, and sustain a creative business long-term
Who Should Apply
Working artists and creative entrepreneurs who are:
- Actively building or growing a creative practice or arts-based business
- Interested in business education tailored to creatives
- Seeking a supportive network of peers and mentors
- Ready to take their creative enterprise to the next level
Artists across disciplines — visual arts, literary, performance, music, digital media, and more — are encouraged to apply.
Program Timeline
Cohort Launch: January 12, 2026
Applications Open: November 13, 2025
Applications Close: December 19, 2025
Apply Now
