The Indiana Arts Commission (IAC) is now accepting applications for the 2027 On-Ramp Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator program. The On-Ramp Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator is a program designed for Indiana creative entrepreneurs to take charge of their career through a portfolio career model. Participants explore a community-engaged approach to apply their creative strengths and build a sustainable practice based on business concepts. In 2027, On-Ramp will be hosted at three locations around the state, in partnership with local hosts.
The On-Ramp Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator program includes a three-day intensive entrepreneurship and community engagement workshop and the chance to apply for up to $2,000 via a fellowship to put the lessons into action. The program began in 2018, and 281 Hoosier creative small business owners have participated in the program to date. In 2025, a program evaluation was conducted by Measurement Resources Company. Key findings of the evaluation included:
- On-Ramp provides long-lasting gains in knowledge, skills, and intentions in key business areas, including participants’ ability to communicate their unique value proposition.
- Alumni are highly satisfied with the quality and value of the program. On-Ramp improves creative empowerment among participants, and alumni show strong entrepreneurial self-efficacy.
- On-Ramp alumni are growing art-centered businesses in Indiana, employing others, and increasing art-related income, collaborations, and sales.
- On-Ramp alumni enrich the vibrancy of their local communities by serving as educators, mentors, advisors, and connectors.
As a result of the study, the program will be expanding in 2027 to take place at three locations, led by partners. The hosts and locations are:
- Southern Indiana – IU Center for Rural Engagement, April 19 – 21, 2027 (Bloomington)
- Central Indiana – Hannah Ollen and The Contemporary Art Museum of Indianapolis, April 28 – 30, 2027 (Indianapolis)
- Northern Indiana – North Central Indiana Small Business Development Center, May 12 – 14, 2027 (South Bend)
The deadline to apply to participate in the 2027 On-Ramp program is January 15th, 2027 by 4:30PM ET. An Informational Webinar about the program will be held on November 10, 2026 at 6:00PM ET. Register to attend the webinar.
Learn more about the On-Ramp program and how to apply to participate.