Emerging Producers Program
Building upon the success of the Cooper’s Alley Animation Grant program, River City Company is excited to present a new program to support individuals who have a vision and desire to create unique and diverse event experiences in downtown Chattanooga.
The Emerging Producers program seeks to support individuals, organizations and artists with two years or less of event management experience.
The first cohort of the program will run from January 2024 through October 2024, providing in-depth educational workshops, event shadowing experiences, field trips with partner organizations, and mentorship for the first four months.
Topics that will be covered include:
Concept Creation – taking an idea to reality;
Creating Collaborations – partnership opportunities and alignment;
Fundraising – creating a budget, grant writing, proposal submissions;
Logistics 101 – permits, security and safety measures;
Marketing and Public Relations – traditional and grassroots methods to spread the word;
Vendor and Contractor Management – achieving a win/win for all;
Run of Show – day of management and production;
Metrics and Success Measures – evaluation process;
Learn from Leaders – panel discussion of best practices and lessons learned over the years.
For the second half of the program starting in May, each of the six cohort member will lead and execute an event in downtown Chattanooga. The other cohort members will support the lead member in producing the event. The classes, mentorship and event management will be overseen by the staff of River City Company with the support of the Emerging Producers Advisory Committee.
Important Dates
October 19, 2023 – Applications Open
November 30, 2023 – Applications Close at 5pm
December 19, 2023 – Program Selection Notice Released
January 2024 – October 2024 – First Cohort Program
Who Can Apply
Representatives of nonprofits, community groups, or an artist, creative, resident, event curator, or entrepreneur with two years or less of event management experience.
A desire to activate a variety of downtown spaces
A vision for diverse and unique events in downtown Chattanooga
Eagerness to learn event management skills
Track record of volunteering at or assisting with at least one public event
Ability to participate for the duration of the ten month program: January to October 2024. Meeting dates and times will be determined with the cohort members. Anticipated hours per month: 2-4 hours in-person with additional 2-4 hours of independent work time.
Must be at least 18 years old
Application Process
For those who meet the criteria above, applications will be accepted until November 30th, 2023 at 5pm. Once applications close, the Emerging Producers Advisory Committee will assist in selecting the top 6 candidates for the program.
Candidates selected will receive a $2500 stipend paid in monthly installments during the program. Additionally, seed funding for the event concept will be provided with the expectation of the member to raise the additional funds with support by the River City Company team.
