(From CreativeOhio)
Building on a successful inaugural year, CreativeOhio is proud to launch the second year of the CreativeOhio Advocacy Leadership Institute, a first-of-its-kind program that equips leaders in Ohio’s arts, culture, and creative industries with the skills and knowledge to advocate effectively for the sector.
After a strong first year, the program will continue with its second cohort beginning in May 2026. The Advocacy Leadership Institute develops a new generation of advocacy champions dedicated to advancing Ohio’s creative sector through informed leadership, relationship-building, and sustained civic engagement.
During its inaugural year, the Institute demonstrated both reach and impact:
- 26 arts and culture leaders from across Ohio
- 6 regional sessions over 6 months
- 20+ speakers and presenters
- 15 arts and cultural venues visited
- 10+ elected officials and policymakers engaged
- 1,200+ miles traveled across the state
Participants left not only with practical tools, but with a renewed sense of purpose and a peer network to sustain their work.
“There is incredible knowledge and power in this group. I will be tapping into this for a long time,” Becky Keck, President, SMARTS Community Arts School
And Luke Dennis, General Manager and President of WYSO Public Radio reflected on the program’s long-term value: “Advocacy skill-building and networking are two of the most important things you can do for your organization, and this program provides both.”
Interested applicants should be established leaders in the creative sector—such as arts administrators, nonprofit executives, and advancement or development professionals—or government, media, and business leaders with a strong passion for the creative sector and a commitment to becoming advocacy champions.
Endorsed by Arts Midwest and crafted in collaboration with leading national arts advocacy experts,the program offers a transformative curriculum. Participants will explore topics like legislative processes, public funding mechanisms, and strategies for building a culture of advocacy. Enriched by site visits to cultural venues and hands-on workshops, the institute equips participants with the knowledge and tools to lead with confidence.
“Advocacy isn’t a single moment. It’s a long game,” said Sarah Sisser, Executive Director and CEO of CreativeOhio. “This institute is about building sustained leadership across Ohio so the creative sector has a strong, informed presence wherever decisions are being made.”
Participants will gain:
- Knowledge: Insights into legislative processes and the creative sector’s economic role.
- Know-How: Practical tools to champion their organizations and communities.
- Networking: Connections with policymakers and creative leaders statewide.
Applications are open through February 13, 2026. Selected participants will meet monthly from May to October at cultural hubs across Ohio, culminating in certification as Certified Creative Sector Advocates. Tuition is $1,500, with scholarships available to ensure accessibility.
The Advocacy Leadership Institute is made possible through the generous support from the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, Greater Columbus Arts Council, The George Gund Foundation, The Carol Ann & Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation, The Charles F. Kettering Foundation, Edwards Companies and Envisage Wealth.
For more information and to apply, visit creativeoh.org/advocacy-leadership-institute/
About CreativeOhio
Celebrating 50 years of statewide leadership, CreativeOhio is the collective voice for Ohio’s creative sector. Driven by more than 130 member organizations, CreativeOhio strengthens communities across Ohio through arts, culture, and creativity. creativeoh.org