RISE Chattanooga
RISE Chattanooga stands as a dynamic beacon for artistic expression, cultural advancement, and community revitalization. Dedicated to enriching creative communities, RISE offers a comprehensive suite of resources including grants, educational workshops, artist residencies, and access to affordable or free spaces designed for collaboration, creation, and community engagement. Emphasizing the importance of creative experimentation, RISE encourages artists and cultural practitioners to explore innovative approaches and new ideas, fostering an environment where artistic boundaries are pushed and diverse narratives flourish.
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This organization is also deeply committed to community development and the revitalization of historically underserved neighborhoods through the power of the arts. By integrating artistic endeavors with community-driven projects, RISE effectively harnesses creativity as a transformative tool, promoting social cohesion, cultural identity, and economic development in areas most in need.
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Renowned for its trailblazing initiatives that not only foster innovation and ambition but also deeply impact the cultural landscape, RISE Chattanooga actively celebrates, preserves, and amplifies the rich history, undeniable value, and boundless promise of Black creativity. Positioned as a pivotal force in shaping a more inclusive and vibrant artistic future, RISE is a cornerstone of community progress and artistic excellence.
PROGRAM FOCUS AREAS
Chattanooga's arts and culture scene is a vibrant tapestry, rich with history and bursting with contemporary energy. It is an essential thread in the fabric of our city, enhancing our cultural identity, driving economic vitality, and knitting together a community marked by creativity and mutual respect.
At RISE Chattanooga, we are committed to not only preserving and enhancing this vibrancy but also ensuring that our cultural ecosystem is marked by diversity, equity, and inclusion.
We curate a range of programs and events designed to spotlight and support the creative talents within our communities. They are crafted to provide platforms for artists to showcase their work, connect with broader audiences, and engage in meaningful cultural exchanges. Through collaborations with local and national partners, we ensure that these offerings not only entertain but also educate and inspire, contributing to a more inclusive and vibrant cultural scene in Chattanooga.
We advocate for and actively promote a landscape where the voices and visions of our local creative communities of color are not just included, but are integral, reflecting the full spectrum of our city's rich cultural heritage.
ARTS & CULTURE
CREATIVE ECONOMY
Your first thought may think that a creative entrepreneur is someone who makes a living from their creative ventures, such as artists or photographers. Though they definitely fall into that category, they aren’t the only type of creative entrepreneurs.
A creative entrepreneur is someone who uses their creative or intellectual knowledge and skills to earn a living, usually in a business or as a freelancer. This differs from traditional entrepreneurship that has mainly focused on manufacturing and industrial products.
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RISE Chattanooga's focus on Creative Entrepreneurship is aimed at empowering local artists and creative professionals by equipping them with the necessary tools, resources, and knowledge to transform their artistic talents into sustainable business ventures. This focus area enhances the economic potential of creative work through comprehensive support that includes business development training, networking opportunities, and access to markets. By fostering an environment where creativity and commerce intersect, RISE Chattanooga enables artists to thrive professionally and contributes to the economic vitality of the local community. Through initiatives like workshops, mentorship, and direct support, this focus area not only cultivates a vibrant arts ecosystem but also reinforces Chattanooga as a hub for creative innovation and entrepreneurship.
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ELEVATING VOICES OF COLOR
Chattanooga has a rich and complex history that includes significant contributions from its Black residents. However, like many other places, the stories of Black Chattanoogans have often been overlooked, misrepresented, or marginalized in mainstream narratives. This oversight has led to a skewed understanding of our community's true diversity and richness.
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Amplifying these underrepresented voices is crucial for several reasons. First, it helps correct historical injustices by ensuring that the contributions and experiences of people of color are recognized and celebrated. Second, it preserves the rich cultural heritage of these communities, passing down stories and traditions to future generations. Third, it broadens our collective narrative, providing a more accurate and nuanced picture of what it means to be a Chattanoogan.
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Our focus has been to empower Black voices in Chattanooga by providing a platform for authentic storytelling that reflects the rich, diverse experiences of our community. Through multimedia production, we aim to document, celebrate, and share the stories that shape our past, present, and future, fostering a deeper understanding and connection within and beyond the Black community.​
COMMUNITY INVESTMENT
RISE Chattanooga is deeply committed to fostering the revitalization and sustainable development of East Chattanooga. As a Black-led nonprofit rooted in arts, culture, and social empowerment, we recognize the rich history and untapped potential of this community. Our mission is to ignite investment, inspire creativity, and cultivate pride by harnessing the power of the arts to drive meaningful change.
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Through strategic partnerships, accessible programming, and dedicated community engagement, we aim to create opportunities that celebrate the cultural heritage of East Chattanooga while addressing systemic disparities. By integrating the voices and talents of residents, we are committed to transforming neighborhoods into thriving, inclusive spaces where creativity, entrepreneurship, and social equity flourish.
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RISE Chattanooga envisions an East Chattanooga that is not only revitalized but also resilient—where every resident has access to resources, opportunities, and a vibrant cultural landscape that reflects their collective spirit and potential. Together, we rise to create a stronger, more equitable future.
