AOCA is an extension of our mission to create and elevate community spaces for arts and culture. Made possible by a generous grant from the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving’s ‘Artists of Color Unite!’ advisory group, Artists of Color Accelerate partners a multidisciplinary group of ten artist-fellows from Greater Hartford with ten arts institutions to partner in developing artistic ventures of community significance. Fellows receive an honorarium and support for professional and business development. AOCA also offers “Master Classes”- seminar sessions led by leaders from across the arts sector. With these tools, the AOCA empowers fellows and the Greater Hartford arts community to be cultural ambassadors whose work contributes to the elevation of Hartford as a distinct arts and culture center despite systemic barriers.

To further our support for small businesses, we present our quarterly pop-up markets for vendors to sell their crafts, jewelry, clothing and other products in our collaboration center. Our quarterly 224 Pop-Up market attracts vendors from across the state and serves as an opportunity to sell and promote goods and services, give demonstrations, and network with other businesses and patrons.