Sacramento city creative entrepreneurs and businesses can now apply to participate in the eight-month “EveryDay Creative” program, designed to help grow their businesses.

Building on the success of the 2023 pilot program, this initiative will provide more comprehensive support and opportunities by offering expert mentorship, tailored training, a storefront residency, and financial support.

Managed by CLTRE and Creative Startups and funded by the City’s Office of Arts and Culture through federal American Rescue Plan dollars, the program is dedicated to supporting all businesses, especially those run by people of color, people with disabilities, veterans, and those in low-to-moderate-wealth communities.

“Through partnerships like this, new opportunities are being created to support and celebrate the city’s creative ecosystem, specifically for BIPOC entrepreneurs,” said Roshaun Davis, Executive Director of CLTRE.

This program is open to early-stage ideas and diverse organizational types within the creative economy, including individual entrepreneurs, and for-profit companies that live and work within the Sacramento city limits.

“I was fortunate to be a part of the Accelerator Program last year, and it was an extremely valuable experience,” said local jewelry maker and business owner Charoné DeShazier. “I was able to gain knowledge and tips that I have since been able to implement into my business moving forward, and work on growing my business.”

Participants will receive:

• Mini ($3,500-$5,000) and small grants ($7,500-$10,000) for early revenue-generating businesses upon successful completion of the program.
• Investments of $10,000-$25,000 in the form of loans or shared revenue agreements for graduates demonstrating high potential for scaling.

The program offers:

• Mentorship and training: Insights and guidance from seasoned industry experts.
• Networking opportunities: Connections with peers, potential collaborators, and investors.
• Customized support: Resources and tools to develop, refine, and implement creative businesses.
• Storefront residency: Use of a storefront location to sell products, host events, and increase visibility.

Applications are open until Sept. 8 at 11 p.m. The program kickoff will be on Sept. 26 and 27.

The program fee is $95 per person. Those who cannot afford the $95 fee, can submit a recommendation letter from a community leader (pastor, professor, mentor, or other) who supports their entrepreneurial efforts.

For more information and to apply, visit the EveryDay Creative program website.

Learn more about this program: