At the Center for Inclusive Entrepreneurship, we are continually inspired by the entrepreneurs who come through our programs with bold ideas and the determination to bring them to life. Viva Creative Studio is one of those stories that reminds us why accessible, inclusive business support matters. When the founder of Viva Creative Studio first connected with CIE, the dream was clear: to create a welcoming space where people could gather, create, and build community. “I had a vision in my heart for creating a space where people could gather, create, and build community,” they shared. “But figuring out how to actually make that happen was another story.”
The Start Simple program arrived at just the right moment. Like many early stage entrepreneurs, the studio’s founder had passion and ideas, but needed structure and a sustainable plan. “The program helped me slow down and really think through the foundation of my business,” they said. “It gave me tools to think about sustainability, pricing, and how to structure my ideas in a way that could actually work long term.”
After completing the program, the commitment to opening Viva Creative Studio became even stronger. The founder and their partner made significant lifestyle changes to pursue the dream responsibly. They rented out their home, moved into their camper, and spent several months living on a family friend’s property while saving money and paying down debt. “It was not the easiest season,” they reflected, “but it reminded us how committed we were to this dream.”
Receiving a Blended Capital grant provided meaningful support during the studio’s early stages. “As a small business owner, every dollar matters,” they explained. “That support helped us continue building Viva Creative Studio into a space that serves creatives, small business owners, and our local community.”
Today, Viva Creative Studio has become exactly the kind of community hub its founder envisioned. Photographers host sessions, families celebrate milestones, creators film content, and neighbors gather for workshops and events. “Seeing people walk into our space and make it their own has been the most rewarding part of this journey,” they said.
Stories like Viva Creative Studio’s highlight the power of accessible entrepreneurship support. As the founder shared, “Programs like Start Simple and the Blended Capital grant do not just provide resources. They give entrepreneurs the confidence and support to take the next step in building something meaningful for their communities.”
At CIE, we are honored to play a role in journeys like this one.
