Avante Creative Entrepreneur Boot Camp (hosted by Create Appalachia, registration required)
Create Appalachia Announces Fall 2026 Avante Creative Entrepreneur Boot Camp
Create Appalachia is now accepting registrations for the Fall 2026 Avante Creative Entrepreneur Boot Camp, a hands-on business development program designed specifically for artists, makers, designers, performers, culinary entrepreneurs, digital creators, and other creative professionals.
Supported by a grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission, the boot camp recognizes that creative businesses face unique challenges not addressed by traditional business education. Participants will gain practical tools for pitching their business, pricing their work, understanding finances, marketing effectively, building customer relationships, and creating sustainable business models.
The Fall 2026 program includes three in-person sessions at Philosopher’s House, 117 W. Fairview Ave. in Johnson City. The dates are August 16, August 30, and September 13, from 1:00–5:00 p.m. There will be two live online sessions on August 23 and September 6, from 2:00–4:00 p.m.
The registration fee is $150 and includes all five sessions.
The program is open to creative entrepreneurs, whether they operate an established business, a growing side hustle, or are ready to turn a promising idea into a successful venture.
“Creative talent must have strong business skills to thrive” said Barbara Raymond, the Avante Boot Camp facilitator. “Our goal is to help creative entrepreneurs build businesses that are both financially sustainable and true to their creative vision.”
Space is limited, and advanced registration is required.
How to register: https://createappalachia.org/programs
Cost: 150.00
Location: Classroom/meditation space, 2nd floor
Organizer contact: Amber Saeki, Community Coordinator, Create Appalachia, amber@
About Create Appalachia
Create Appalachia—Where Art Means Business strengthens the regional creative economy by providing education, mentorship, networking, and business development opportunities for artists, makers, and creative entrepreneurs throughout the Appalachian Highlands.
