Empowering Artists to Build Sustainable, Profitable Careers.
We equip fine artists with practical entrepreneurial education, pricing strategy, self-representation tools, and micro-grants so they can make a living without selling out.
Self-Represented Artist Masterclass
Teaching fine artists to negotiate directly with collectors and maintain creative sovereignty.
Democratizing Financial Freedom for Visual Artists Worldwide
MAKING ART MAKING MONEY INSTITUTE INC is a U.S. 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profit organization registered in Boulder, Colorado. Led by founder Conor Alvarado, our mission is to eliminate the starving artist myth by providing visual artists with structured, practical business education and financial resources.
Traditional art schools excel at technique but rarely teach artists how to price their work, build collector relationships, structure contracts, or manage business finances. We bridge this crucial gap through tuition-free workshops, mentorship accelerators, and direct supply grants.
Financial Literacy
Value-based pricing, cash flow management, and tax planning tailored for creatives.
Self-Representation
Helping artists retain 100% ownership and deal directly with ethical collectors.
Our Core Programs
Comprehensive, step-by-step guidance designed to transform creative talent into a thriving, independent enterprise.
The Artist Business Accelerator
A 12-week intensive mentorship program teaching value-based pricing, target market identification, marketing strategy, copyright protection, and sales negotiation.
Micro-Grants & Studio Supplies
Providing non-repayable micro-grants ranging from $500 to $2,500 to cover canvas, paint, sculpting supplies, framing, and exhibition shipping fees.
Digital Alumni Exhibitions
Curated global online exhibitions that showcase artist alumni work directly to serious art collectors, patrons, and interior design firms without commission fees.
Invest in an Artist's Future & Independence
When you support MAKING ART MAKING MONEY INSTITUTE INC (EIN: 93-3048671), you aren't giving a handout—you are providing an artist with lifelong skills to build an independent business.
Your Selected Contribution ($100/mo or One-Time)
"Provides 1 month of 1-on-1 business coaching & premium canvas supplies for an emerging visual artist."
Sponsor an Artist
501(c)(3) EntityOfficial receipts issued by MAKING ART MAKING MONEY INSTITUTE INC (EIN 93-3048671)
Featured Artist Alumni
Discover how artists transformed their creative passion into thriving, self-directed art businesses.
Oil & Canvas
Elena Rostova
Contemporary Painter & Studio Owner
"Before the Institute, I struggled to price my paintings. Colette's pricing framework helped me sell out my solo collection directly to collectors."
Sales Growth: +210%
Bronze & Mixed Media
Marcus Vance
Sculptor & Micro-Grant Recipient
"The micro-grant covered my bronze casting supplies, while the accelerator taught me how to draft professional contracts for corporate commissions."
Grants Awarded: $2,000
Abstract Expressionism
Aisha Thorne
Fine Artist & Workshop Mentor
"Learning self-representation gave me the confidence to stop relying on gallery middle-men who were taking 50% commissions on my work."
Self-Represented AlumniContact Our Institute
Have questions about our educational programs, grant eligibility, or tax-deductible donor partnerships? Reach out to our leadership team in Boulder, Colorado.
BOULDER, Colorado 80301-0000