Virtual Event
The Emerging Program Institute (EPI) is ACA’s foundational training curriculum for new and emerging artist residencies interested in launching, developing, or strengthening their programs. For more than 19 years, ACA has offered the only professional development program specifically for founders and staff of early-stage artist residencies. This year, EPI has been newly updated and re-designed for the 2026 cohort.
Over the course of four days, participants will hear from experienced field practitioners about the organizational, governance, financial, and operational necessities that support an effective artist residency program. Virtual sessions combine facilitated discussion, small-group work, and exercises and prompts for individual and group reflection, supported by a workbook of templates, checklists, case studies, and additional resources.
Through four online sessions (16+ hours) facilitated by residency leaders, funders, artists, and arts consultants from around the world, participants will be well-prepared to:
- Articulate their mission, values, program structure, and artist selection processes;
- Build sustainable funding strategies through diverse revenue streams, compelling case-making, and productive partnerships;
- Create an artist-centered residency experience that supports the creative growth of residents;
- Design evaluation frameworks, community engagement strategies, and compelling narratives that support long-term sustainability and resilience; and
- Engage with a cohort of peers from across the residency field who are collectively building the next generation of artist residency programs.
For more information, see the EPI page of our website.
