CALLING ALL CREATIVE ENTERPRISE GRADUATES!

We’re excited to partner with Greater Spokane Incorporated (GSI) to offer a mini-grant opportunity exclusively for past program participants. Starting now — and until funds run out — you can apply for support ranging from $500–$5,000.

The goal is simple: to provide a small catalyst that helps you sustain or expand your business. Funding can be used for equipment, branding/marketing/advertising, or anything else that directly supports your growth.

A couple of requirements from GSI:

  1.  You must still be operating as an active business.
  2.  This is a 1:1 matching grant — you’ll need to match whatever amount of funds you’re requesting. 

Additionally, GSI asks that you briefly:

  •  Describe how you’ll use the funds.
  •  Explain how the funding will support growth (revenue, employment, or both).
  •  Estimate potential revenue and/or employment growth over the next 12 months.

That’s it! This is designed to be a low-barrier funding opportunity. Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until the $50,000 pool is fully distributed — so don’t wait to apply!

Terrain wants to forever destroy the cliche of the “starving artist.” That’s why we’ve created Creative Enterprise, an in-depth, cohort-based training program for artists, makers, and creative entrepreneurs living in, and around, Spokane.

The 14-week program includes weekly classes, one-on-one coaching, peer-to-peer learning, and a proven curriculum that equips participants with the skills to transition their creative endeavors into living-wage small businesses. We are specifically looking for businesses that engage the community, generate exciting neighborhood activity, and help to build Spokane’s vibrancy and creative economy.

In other words, individuals/businesses that sell things they make vs. re-selling mass-produced goods, as well as small community groups and special projects that create unique cultural experiences. Folks with a proven track record, but no physical store -- say an Etsy Shop -- are well suited for this project.

FEEDBACK FROM PAST PARTICIPANTS:
    “Priceless”
“I needed this education to take my business to the next level.”
“Amazing, life-changing.”
    “The collaborations and relationships I made were awesome. Guest speakers, business coach...Loved all of it.”
“Thank you so much for the heart and soul you bring to this program and small businesses!”

HOW IT WORKS:

Terrain places a Call for Applicants (that's this!) and a jury of local professionals chooses up to 15 businesses to participate.

Chosen participants are provided weekly, in-depth classes (Feb 2026 - May 2026), one-on-one coaching, and peer-to-peer support designed specifically for the creatively minded. 

Chosen participants must attend all 13 classes and the Pitch Party.

Each participant walks away with an executable business plan, which is reviewed by a panel of experts at a culminating Graduation/Pitch Party.   

After classes are complete, Terrain, along with our program partners, provide participants with:
         1. Ongoing technical support (i.e. lease and contract reviews, and access to business resources).
         2. Access to Terrain's retail storefront From Here.*   
         3. Guidance in securing financial capital.
         *If the business is viable and subject to availability.

In the case of From Here, the participant will also need to be a good fit for the shop. 

Click here to review frequently asked questions about the program.  If you don't find the answer you're looking for, please don't hesitate to reach out to team@terrainspokane.com. Our team is always happy to help and answer any questions you may have.

IMPORTANT DATES:

  • January 12th — Call Closes
  • January 23rd - Notification Letters Emailed
  • February 17th - May 12th - Weekly evening classes Tuesdays 5:30-8:30PM
  • May 21st —  Pitch Party

The entirety of the course will last from February - May including a Pitch Party and Graduation Party celebrating your full completion of the program.

DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?

Please reach out to team@terrainspokane.com and we would be happy to help.

+++ DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS IS JANUARY 12th AT 11:59PM- NO EXCEPTIONS +++

#WEALLBUILDTHIS

Thanks so much for your interest in participating in From Here!

**NOTE: THIS IS NOT AN APPLICATION TO PLAY MUSIC AT TERRAIN EVENTS**

From Here exists as a practical means of furthering Terrain’s mission of working to ensure artists thrive in our region and to spark the creative economy. 

When looking for new items to carry we consider the following:

  1. Quality of work.
  2. Are there similar items already in the shop?
  3. Collaboration vs. competition. Is the work already available at other local stores? 
  4. Production. Is the artist/maker able to keep up with items turning over quickly?
  5. Community-building. Is the artist/maker able to be an active participant in the shop?

The last point is an important distinction between our shop and other retail locations. We’re not merely interested in selling locally made goods. We want to develop an ecosystem of creativity, camaraderie and a place where businesses grow. As a result, we create opportunities in which artists can dive in and participate in the happenings of the shop. 

If this sounds like your cup of tea, please click submit.

Terrain