Charlotte Is Creative: Fueling the Queen City’s Creative Economy

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — For over a decade, Charlotte Is Creative (CIC) has been on a mission to reshape how the Queen City sees its artists—not just as creators, but as entrepreneurs, innovators, and vital contributors to the local economy.  “We believe every creative is a small business,” says CIC co-founder  Matt Olin. “And like any business, they need access to capital, training, and community to thrive.”  CIC’s work is rooted in the belief that creativity is not a luxury—it’s an economic engine. Through programs like the Creative Entrepreneurs Initiative (CEI), CIC equips artists with the tools they need to succeed in a business-driven city. The 10-week CEI program offers training in finance, marketing, legal structure, and storytelling, culminating in a $1,500 grant to help creatives invest in their growth. “We are transforming creatives into  creative business owners rather than a creative with a business,” says Olin.

CIC’s Helpful Unfettered Gifts (HUGs)—$250 micro-grants—have become a lifeline for emerging creatives. These grants come with access to tools, promotion, and a network of support. Since its inception, the HUG program has helped hundreds of artists take their first steps toward sustainability. In 2025, CIC partnered with the City of Charlotte to administer the Creative Growth Grants (CGG)—a public funding initiative offering between $2,500 and $25,000 to local artists and grassroots arts organizations.

The goal? To strengthen Charlotte’s creative ecosystem and align with the city’s Arts and Culture Plan. “These grants are reflective of the city’s ongoing and eager support of Charlotte’s creative community,” said Mayor Vi Lyles. “We are committed to fueling the creativity that exists in every corner of the Queen City.” The grants support everything from professional development to collaborative projects, and CIC is offering free virtual and in-person grantwriting workshops to help applicants submit their strongest proposals. The next virtual session is this Wednesday evening, July 16, and registration is open at CLTgov.me/CGG .

A City of Creatives, Not Just Consumers

CIC’s broader vision is to make Charlotte the most welcoming and supportive city in the country for creatives. From live events like CreativeMornings/Charlotte to quirky community games like the Queen City Quiz Show, CIC is constantly finding new ways to connect creatives with audiences, businesses, and each other. “Everything we do is about connection and access,” says Olin. “Because connection makes anything possible and we want to help fill in the gaps of young brand new emerging artist; seeing themselves as a small business.”  For more information visit CLTgov.me/CGG or follow on Instagram.