THE FOUNDRY INSTITUTE
For generations, talented artists, creators and innovators from all walks of life have faced barriers to receiving full acknowledgement and compensation for their creative works. Many have struggled to make ends meet while pursuing their passions and often face obstacles to bringing their creations to the market. Today, there are more opportunities – and simultaneously more barriers – for artists, creators and innovators than ever before. In fact, research continues to indicate the advancement of technology has also brought with it a digital divide that has a far greater impact on marginalized communities.
Founded in 2022, The FOUNDry Institute is dedicated raising awareness about the new opportunities that exist for the entire community, while focusing on helping artists, creators and innovators achieve success, eliminating the digital divide, and closing the gap between new opportunities and traditionally marginalized communities. We intentionally emphasize bringing LGBTQ+ people, people with lower income, people with disabilities, women and communities of color into the digital space. Using best practices in self-empowerment, whole-person teaching, marketing and promotions, and community resource and opportunities linkage, The FOUNDry Institute aims to create and foster communities where all people, including artists, creators and innovators from all walks of life, can achieve their dreams and get the credit – and income – they deserve.
Our Mission & Vision
Our mission is to empower communities across the country to achieve success in the digital sphere by:
- Providing education and training;
- Facilitating inspiring spaces for creating digital products;
- Promoting the creations of artists, innovators and creators; and
- Ensuring artists have access to community services and resources to support them in achieving their dreams.
We envision a world where all creators, innovators and artists are artistically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually and financially thriving!
Our Core Beliefs, Guiding Principles and Values
Networking Communities
We believe in the promotion of networking and peer-to-peer opportunities. Empowering artists, creators and innovators to market themselves and their amazing talents is key to our mission.
Supporting Authenticity and Well-Being
We believe artists, creators and innovators can fully thrive when they bring their whole, authentic selves to the table. We encourage and support and authentic living and access to resources that promote individual growth.
Bridging the Digital Divide
We intentionally create inclusive spaces and emphasize our outreach to marginalized communities including, LGBTQ+ communities, people with disabilities, women, communities of color, people with mental health diagnosis, veterans and economically disadvantaged communities – among others.
Train the Trainer
We believe in spreading knowledge far and wide. Our education programs are designed to be utilized by other trainers and teachers across the country. We focus on empowering communities and community workers, including social workers, teachers, community leaders and more.
Self-Empowerment and Whole Person Approach
We believe in fostering and nurturing the whole person so that they can bring their full selves into the digital sphere.
Community
We believe in the power of community-building and networking. Our creators spaces and events are designed to promote engagement among peers, as well as creativity.
Knowledge
We believe knowledge is power, and that all people should have the opportunity to learn how to create, monetize and earn income from digital products; We focus on bringing the latest technological advancements to the artist, innovator and creator communities.