Springboard - Youth Arts and Entrepreneurship Program

Springboard: Youth Arts and Entrepreneurship Program is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering young artists and entrepreneurs through hands-on learning experiences.  In 2026, we are excited to host free inspiring community events for youth across LaPlata County that help develop essential skills in business, marketing, financial literacy and creative problem solving.

The Youth Arts Festival and Makers Market is a free, all-ages community event celebrating art, creativity and entrepreneurship. The festival will take place at the La Plata County Fairgrounds on October 18, 2026 and will feature a Makers Market showcasing art and goods created by 55 talented young artists/entrepreneurs, ages 8-18. At Springboard’s annual event, Makers Market participants will be challenged to create and develop a brand, build a marketing strategy, and open their business for customers. All community youth interested in participating in the Makers Market are encouraged to apply and applications are accepted on a first come first served basis. The festival will also feature twelve hands-on art stations including ceramics, dance, felting, painting, music, theatre, weaving, a writers workshop and more. The stations will be led by local artists and supported by volunteers, to guide festival participants in exploring their own creativity. 

To prepare youth for success, we will host a free Youth Business Expo on September 13, 2026, offering workshops on financial literacy, business plan development, marketing and sales strategies, cottage food laws, makers market logistics, and a photoshoot with their products.  Community youth will have opportunities to connect with a panel of local artists and entrepreneurs through Mentor Chats. These workshops are designed to support youth participation in the arts and entrepreneurship and assist them in developing valuable life skills that will serve them for years to come. 

Your donation will help support events costs and fund scholarships (up to $200) so all youth - regardless of financial need- can participate and launch their creative ventures. 

Thank you so much for investing in the innovators and creators of tomorrow!