Ready to Grow Your Creative Business?
Join the Artists, Growers & Makers Business Lab!
You've already done the hard part—you've created something worth sharing. Now it's time to build an action plan that helps it thrive.
Is This Business Lab Right for You?
You don't need to have everything figured out—you just need a product you believe in and a willingness to learn.
Apply if you...
- Have a product based business idea or are already selling what you make
- Are an artist, grower, maker, or creative entrepreneur
- Want to better understand pricing, marketing, and the financial side of your business
- Are ready to move beyond "just a hobby"
- Value learning alongside a small group of supportive peers
- Can commit to attending all nine Thursday evening sessions
- Are excited to leave with a clear plan for growing your business
Not sure if you're ready?
If you're wondering whether this program is the right fit, we'd love to talk. Reach out to Stina Kindwall at stina@makersmill.org with your questions. We're happy to learn more about your business idea and help you decide if the Artists, Growers & Makers Business Lab is the right next step.
Only 8 participants will be selected for this cohort.
What You'll Learn
Over nine sessions, you'll build the skills, confidence, and plan to turn what you create into a thriving business. Each Thursday evening combines practical instruction, hands on activities, and meaningful conversations with a small cohort of fellow artists, growers, and makers.
By the end of the program, you'll have a clear roadmap for growing your business and the confidence to take your next steps.
Program Cost: The standard tuition is $500, with sliding scale options available to help make the program accessible to everyone.
Throughout the Business Lab, you'll learn how to:
✔ Identify your ideal customers and where to find them
✔ Build a brand that reflects your story and connects with customers
✔ Price your products for profitability and long term success
✔ Create a practical marketing plan that fits your business
✔ Understand your finances and make informed business decisions
✔ Navigate the legal and operational basics of starting a business
✔ Talk confidently about your products and your business
✔ Develop a practical Business Case you can use long after the program ends
✔ Showcase your business at a community Marketplace Event
Session Overview
Session 1 • Introduction
September 17
Meet your cohort, clarify your vision, and begin building your Business Case.
Session 2 • Know Your Customer
September 24
Discover who your customers are, how they shop, and the best places to sell your products.
Session 3 • Branding & Marketing
October 1
Develop your brand, strengthen your marketing, and begin telling your business story with confidence.
Session 4 • Business Basics
October 8
Learn about business structures, licenses, insurance, bookkeeping, and other essentials for launching and growing your business.
Session 5 • Pricing for Profit
October 15
Calculate your true costs, price your products with confidence, and understand what it takes to build a sustainable business.
Session 6 • Understanding Your Numbers
October 22
Create a simple financial plan and project your first year of business.
Session 7 • Funding & Growth
October 29
Explore startup costs, funding options, cash flow, and prepare for your Marketplace Event.
Session 8 • Practice & Feedback
November 5
Refine your business presentation, receive feedback, and learn from experienced local entrepreneurs.
Session 9 • Marketplace Event
Date determined by the cohort during Session 1
Present your business to the community, connect with potential customers, and celebrate everything you've accomplished.
You'll Leave With:
- A practical Business Case tailored to your business
- A stronger understanding of marketing, pricing, and finances
- Greater confidence in talking about your work
- A supportive network of fellow entrepreneurs
- Clear next steps for growing your business
- The tools to keep building long after the Business Lab ends
Ready to take the next step?
Applications are now open for a cohort of just 8 participants.