Supporting creatives and rural communities.

The Alliance for Creative Rural Economies (ACRE Partners) is a scalable model to bring creativity-driven, COVID-19 responsive, economic development to rural areas across western Pennsylvania and beyond; meeting creatives where they are in their artistic career journeys and offering multiple levels of support and resources to achieve business stability.

THE NEED

Regroup. Restart. Refresh.

The economic shockwaves of the COVID-19 pandemic on rural America are far from over. By bringing together creatives, citizens, and civic leaders in small towns and rural areas, ACRE is reimagining rural spaces, shifting dominant narratives, and rewriting the story of the pandemic.

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THE PROGRAM

Design Your Own Path.

From studio space to expert business coaching, explore how ACRE can help you develop your craft business.

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THE PLACE

Towns Focused on Supporting Creatives

Exciting performance spaces, innovative collaborations, and fresh strategies are emerging in towns across the region. Entrepreneurs, artists, and other creative thinkers are participating in the growth of their communities and adding new perspectives. Projects ranging from business incubators to community cooperatives are shining elements in local commerce and development.

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The organizations of ACRE Partners share a vision for rural communities uplifted by creative entrepreneurship. For creatives to be successful long-term, they must have a broad understanding of both creative processes, business practices, and the value of a professional and peer network for support and learning.

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