The St. Petersburg Arts Alliance is in the midst of our annual six-week Arts Business Academy. This program focuses on professional development and provides working artists and the staff of arts organizations with the skills and confidence to meet business challenges.

These classes help fine artists, performers, writers and nonprofit administrators grow in their careers and embrace our philosophy that working artists are in fact small business owners, and part of St. Petersburg’s vibrant economy.

The Arts Alliance is delighted to welcome Regions Bank as a sponsor. Thanks to their support, half of the class received tuition scholarships. Regions joins the Pinellas Community Foundation in supporting the Arts Business Academy this summer and also this fall as we present Third Thursday Arts Leadership Forums.

“Regions is working hand-in-hand with nonprofits on programs that are focused on helping people succeed and supporting the long-term growth of the communities we serve,” says Jim Donatelli, St. Pete Market Executive for Regions. “Our work with the Arts Business Academy will provide valuable resources to lay a foundation for success. St Petersburg is a city of the arts, and we are proud to help build strong business models within the creative core of St Pete.”

Local arts professionals and business leaders teach the program. “The St Petersburg Arts Alliance is committed to professional arts education to support the growing numbers of artist entrepreneurs who drive our creative economy,” says John Collins, Executive Director of the Arts Alliance. “We have very encouraging arts community professionals who are willing to help so that everyone succeeds.”

The 2019 Arts Business Acedemy sold out in advance. If you’re interested in attending next year’s session, sign up for our ArtBeat newsletter or follow us on Facebook to receive regular Arts Alliance announcements.