IMPORTANT DATES

• Online Application Opens: Wednesday, September 25, 2024 (8am PT)
• ZOOM INFO SESH: Wednesday, October 2, 2024 (6-7pm PT)
• Join us for a Pop-In Info Session, with program lead Nikko Kimzin from Kimzin Creative - where applicants can drop by to ask questions about the BIPOC Producers Lab and the application process. It's a great opportunity to get clarity on the program details, expectations, and how to tell your story best via our application.
• Zoom Link Here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83045308233
• APPLICATION DEADLINE: Tuesday, October 15, 2024 (3:00 pm PT)
• Interviews: October 21-23, 2024
• Selected Announced: End of October 2024
• *Timeline may shift based on the number of applicant responses
• Program Period: October 2024 - June 2025

PROGRAM DETAILS

The Kimzin Creative BIPOC Producers Lab, created in partnership with Creative Sonoma, is an innovative, nine-month professional development program designed to foster the growth and success of (2) emerging Sonoma County-based BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) producers. This program will provide selected participants with: the foundational knowledge of artistic production, application of event production skills as event producers, and mentorship for participants in the creation of their own artistic or cultural event for the community.

The lab is specifically tailored to support producers in creating inclusive, impactful cultural or artistic events centered on BIPOC arts and cultural practices and communities. Participants will develop the skills necessary to succeed in the creative industry, from project management and marketing to cultural curation and community engagement.

By the end of the program, participants will have learned the foundations of production, produced their own community-wide event, built valuable industry connections, and gained skills that will advance their careers in the arts & business sector.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

The following program elements :

Foundational Knowledge:

Participants will attend (3) workshops and (3) conversations led by industry experts on key topics such as budgeting, marketing, project management, storytelling, and community engagement. All workshops and guest lectures will be facilitated by established BIPOC producers.

Applied Event Production:

Participants will take on the role of event producers, responsible for the ideation and execution of nine monthly events for LA ASAMBLEA— “an artistic experiment by/for Sonoma County BIPOC & Queer artists + co-conspirators”. Additionally, participants will have a budget of $10,000 to conceptualize, develop, and produce their own artistic or cultural event for the community by the end of the program term.

Mentorship:

Participants will be paired with an experienced BIPOC producer for one-on-one guidance and support throughout the program. This mentor will help navigate the challenges of production and ensure participants are well-equipped for success.

Program Impact:

By the end of the lab, participants will have gained extensive experience in producing live events, built professional networks, and acquired a toolkit of skills that will enable them to continue their work in the creative sector. Additionally, their work will promote cross-cultural and intergenerational connections, elevate diverse voices, and activate inclusive community spaces in Sonoma County.

TIME COMMITMENT & STIPEND:

The Kimzin Creative BIPOC Producers Lab requires a time commitment of approximately 30 hours per month for workshops, guest lectures, and event production tasks. Participants will receive a monthly stipend of $1,500 to support their participation throughout the nine-month program ($13,500 total throughout the program). This stipend is intended to cover time spent in training and hands-on event production, providing participants with the financial support they need to focus on their growth as emerging producers.

*PLEASE NOTE: This stipend is considered taxable income. Each participant will receive an IRS 1099 Form for stipends received in tax year 2024/2025. We encourage applicants to consult with a qualified tax advisor for further information. If you have stipend-related questions please contact, info@kimzincreative.com