Learning Lab

In-person experiences are a great way to engage clients, partners, and the general public with your products, share your company story, and build brand loyalty by giving them a behind-the-scenes look at the work you do. In this workshop series, we will explore the different ways that you can effectively, safely, and accessibly engage visitors in your space through tours, hands-on activities, and other activations.

Learn more about this workshop and learning outcomes. Each workshop series contains 3-sessions and participation in all sessions is required.

Ready For Retail is a two-hour interactive workshop designed for emerging brands and makers that are ready for growth. Learn from a local gift shop owner all of the important and practical ways to get your products “shelf ready”. From building a linesheet, refining your packaging design, demystifying wholesale versus consignment, to sending the perfect intro email to prospective stockists - this workshop will equip you with the knowledge you need to move beyond the maker’s market and approach retailers with confidence.

Learn more about this workshop and learning outcomes.

• February 23 workshop application deadline: 2/19.
• March 24 workshop application deadline: 3/23

The Vending Glow-Up is a hands-on workshop designed for small business owners, artists, and craft makers who want to break into, improve, or level up their experience selling at makers markets and pop-up events. Taught by seasoned NYC-based vendors and creative entrepreneurs, this dynamic bootcamp covers the essential pillars of vending: set-up, strategy, and sales.

Learn more about this workshop and learning outcomes. The application deadline is Tuesday, March 24.

This intensive program is tailored to small business owners seeking to unlock the keys to financial growth through knowledge of both debt and equity capital. In today’s competitive landscape, securing funding is essential for fueling expansion, innovation, and sustainability. Whether you’re a startup seeking initial investment or an established business looking to scale, understanding the nuances of debt and equity funding is paramount.

Learn more about this program and learning outcomes. Businesses must commit to at least 75% of all sessions to participate.

View the full program calendar and session information here.

Registration for this program has closed.

Is marketplace vending, trade shows, or pop-up retail a vital part of your business? If so, this course is for you. Over four weeks, you’ll learn a practical framework to plan and improve your marketing and sales at in-person retail events. Through expert guidance and peer exchange, you’ll gain strategies, tips, and best practices to boost your pop-up performance. In addition to in-person sessions, virtual office hours will be available for personalized support throughout the course.

Learn more about this workshop and learning outcomes. Participation in all sessions is required.

Understanding basic merchandising can significantly improve your product’s success. Learn how to think like a Merchant and strengthen your brand through mindful brand extensions and assortment building. In this course, you will gain an understanding of the current economic climate and the desperate need for crafting product strategy with surgical precision. Students will learn how to identify their target market, determine their USP (unique selling proposition), and price their product effectively. They will also receive feedback on what to do if they realize they can no longer afford to produce it. This course is designed to help makers create seamless selling strategies, with a focus on identifying a reason for existence.

Learn more about this workshop and learning outcomes.