Business Basics Workshop sparks new opportunity for local artists, growers, and makers

WOLFEBORO — Makers Mill recently welcomed a strong turnout of local artists, growers, makers, and creative entrepreneurs for Business Basics for Creatives: Turning Your Hobby into a Business, an introductory workshop presented in partnership with the New Hampshire Small Business Development Center.

Held at Makers Mill, the workshop offered a supportive and practical introduction to what it means to begin operating as a business. Led by Ed Miles and Amy Sterndale, the session covered foundational topics, including business structures such as sole proprietorships, LLCs, and DBAs; clarifying a product or offering; understanding target customers; exploring creative business models and revenue streams; and developing effective marketing strategies.

The workshop drew approximately 15 participants, reflecting growing local interest in entrepreneurship among people turning creative skills, handmade products, farm-grown goods, and artistic work into viable businesses.

“Makers Mill is grateful to NH SBDC for bringing accessible, high-quality business education to our creative community,” said Stina Kindwall, Workforce Development Program Coordinator at Makers Mill. “There is so much talent in this region, and many people are ready to take the next step from making or selling casually to building something more sustainable. We’re excited to continue supporting that journey through the upcoming Artists, Growers & Makers Business Lab.”

Makers Mill is now inviting interested participants to learn more about the Artists, Growers & Makers Business Lab, a small-cohort program planned to begin on Sept. 17. Sessions will be held Thursdays from 5-8 p.m. at Makers Mill.

The Business Lab is based on a proven model developed by the Hannah Grimes Center for Entrepreneurship and is designed for serious early-stage entrepreneurs who create products and want to build or grow a real business around their work. Over nine weeks — eight, three-hour sessions plus a final Marketplace Event — participants will move from vision to practical planning with the support of a small peer cohort, one-on-one coaching, mentors, and business advisors.

Participants will work toward a clear, written, actionable business plan and gain skills in pricing, marketing, sales, financial planning, legal and operational basics, and confidently talking about their business. The program is designed for artists, growers, and makers ready to take the next step in their business journey.

Space will be limited to 6-8 participants, allowing for individualized support and meaningful peer connection. There is a program fee, and Makers Mill expects to offer scholarships on a sliding scale to make the opportunity as financially accessible as possible.

“This is an incredible opportunity for local artists, growers, and makers who are ready to take their business idea seriously,” Kindwall said. “The small cohort model gives participants the chance to learn alongside supportive peers, receive coaching, and leave with a plan they can actually use.”

Makers Mill is also seeking local talent to serve as individual session instructors in finance and marketing, as well as experienced volunteer mentors willing to offer a few hours to help participants with various aspects of their planning. Local businesses that believe in supporting small business development and creative entrepreneurship are invited to consider sponsoring a participant’s journey through the program.

For more information about the Artists, Growers & Makers Business Lab, email stina@makersmill.org.