Creative Entrepreneur Capital Summit 2026

Get ready to be inspired and learn how to grow and scale your creative business at the Creative Entrepreneur Capital Summit 2025.

About this Event

Social Art and Culture presents the bi-annual 2026 Creative Entrepreneur Capital Summit [CECS] for another sold-out summit with new supporter, Mid-Atlantc Arts, along side returning partners with the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment, Mayor Bowser presents 202 Creates, and We Act Radio Network, National Black MBAA DC Chapter, and Arts Administrators of Color Network.

CECS is an one-day summit exploring cultural and financial sustainability under the UN 2030 goal for DMV creative entrepreneurs. Curated in 2019 and 2023, the Summit hosted a sold-out audience hosting 19 expert panelists and 150 creative entrepreneurs attending. In 2026, CECS will continue to develop and offer resources for creative entrepreneurs' short—and long-term projects, driving economic and technology development, business innovation and planning, and investment opportunities.

Agenda


🕑: 01:15 PM - 02:15 PM
Creative Economy 2030: AI + One Big Beautiful Bill Act
Host: Moderator, Katea Stitt, Program Director, WPFW 89.3 FM

Info: The Summit remains focused on advancing the United Nations’ 2030 Agenda while driving trade and economic growth. Yet, the rapid rise of AI, policy shifts such as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and funding disruptions across major federal institutions have reshaped the landscape. This panel explores how these forces are affecting the creative economy, the broader implications, and the strategies needed to support arts and culture entrepreneurs, organizations, and workers.

🕑: 02:30 PM - 03:15 PM
The Transition: From Employee to Entrepreneur
Host: Moderator: Curtis Midkiff, CEO, SMOGO Media & SAAC Board

Info: A dynamic panel of successful creative entrepreneurs who've cracked the code on building thriving businesses while transitioning from full-time career positions. This high-energy discussion is not about the 'quit your job to follow your dreams' myth, but about how innovative creatives are strategically leveraging their 9-to-5s into an entrepreneurial success. Get ready to be inspired and motivated by their practical strategies.

🕑: 03:30 PM - 04:15 PM
Unlocking Hidden Funding Sources
Host: Moderator, Dr. Carletta Hurt, Pres., NBMAA DC Chapter

Info: Everyone is familiar with the major arts funding institutions, but what about the lesser-known gems in funding? This session spotlights the essential resources and opportunities available for funding and program initiatives for creatives. Join us as we explore various sources of financial support, including philanthropic giving, impact investing, banking, and crowdsourcing. Discover the potential of these hidden funding sources and feel hopeful about the future of your creative projects.

🕑: 04:30 PM - 05:30 PM
Grit + Growth: Funding Go-Go's Future
Host: Moderator: Kokayi, Grammy Nominated Artists

Info: The Go-Go music community has begun to capitalize on the history, social movements, and recognition it has brought to Washington, DC, but more funding is needed. This session is not just a discussion, but an opportunity for you to be part of the solution. How do Go-Go music and the DMV music scene gain the same access as other major urban cities through the complexities of sampling, covering trademarked art, marketing, and the exponential growth of AI technology? Get ready to be engaged and involved in this important conversation.

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