Emerge is a strong fit for artists who:

• Are actively creating and want to generate more consistent income

• Are ready to be held accountable and take action

• Have the capacity to commit time and energy to growth

• Are open to feedback, structure, and change

This program may not be the right fit if you:

• Are just beginning your art practice and are not selling work

• Are not currently able to commit time consistently

• Are in a period of major personal instability or crisis

A 5-Month Structured Framework
A step-by-step system designed to help you organize your business, increase income, and build sustainable habits.

Weekly Virtual Group Sessions
Consistent guidance, accountability, and support to keep you moving forward.

Monthly In-Person Meetings
Hands-on sessions to connect, collaborate, and deepen your work within the cohort.

Access to the Emerge App + Business Tools
Including tools for pricing, cash flow, marketing, goal setting, and managing your creative business.

Accountability Partner + Small Group Support
You’ll be paired with another artist and placed in a small group led by an Emerge Mentor to stay on track.

One-on-One Strategy Sessions
Personalized support after the framework completes to help you work through specific challenges and make strategic decisions.

Professional Development Options
Depending on your needs, you’ll have access to either financial planning support or a professional portfolio/photoshoot experience after the framework completes.

Expert Content + Resources
Access to the Emerge App Resources offering guidance on topics like taxes, contracts, pricing, and running a creative business.

A Cohort of Artists Doing the Work
You won’t be doing this alone—you’ll be surrounded by artists who are actively building alongside you.

Step 1: Submit Your Application
Complete the application below. This should take approximately 10–12 minutes.

Step 2: Application Review
Applications are reviewed based on:

• Quality and viability of work

• Current traction and effort

• Readiness to grow and take action

• Overall fit for the cohort

Step 3: Interview
Some applicants may be invited to a short interview to ensure alignment.

Step 4: Acceptance - By Friday, July 3rd
Selected artists will receive an invitation to join Emerge, along with next steps for enrollment and payment.

Applications Open: April 6, 2026
Application Deadline: June 15, 2026
Virtual Interviews (if needed): Mid-June to end of June
Final Decisions Sent: Friday, July 6
Orientation & Program Start: 1st week of August & First Week of September 2026

Emerge is a 5-month structured program with ongoing support beyond the framework.

Participants can expect:

• Weekly 1-hour virtual sessions

• Monthly in-person meetings (2-hours, 1st week of the month at DAC for Sussex Cohort, Delaware Art Museum for New Castle Cohort)

• Intentional breaks for Thanksgiving & Christmas Holidays

• Independent work between sessions with videos and tools on the Emerge App

• Active participation in a cohort environment

Artists should be prepared to commit 4–6+ hours per week to fully engage in the program.

The program investment is $2,500.
Payment plans are available, and a limited number of need-based subsidized discounts are offered, thanks to the Delaware Division of the Arts, for artists where cost would otherwise be a barrier.