In 2023, Craft Lake City partnered with Utah Developmental Disabilities Council to provide the ArtAbility Scholarship as part of Craft Lake City’s DIY Fest Inclusion Program. The scholarship returns this year for the 16th Annual Craft Lake City DIY Festival Presented By Harmons, continuing to provide opportunity for people with disabilities who aspire to use their passion, skills and talents to build a small business as an artisan.
As part of our Scholarship & Mentor Program, the ArtAbility Scholarship includes waived booth fees for participation in the 16th Annual Craft Lake City DIY Festival Presented By Harmons and one-on-one mentorship from a seasoned DIY Fest exhibitor before, during and after the event. As of 2024, Craft Lake City is offering just one ArtAbility scholarship, with hopes of expanding this program in future years. To be considered for this scholarship, artisans must submit both a general DIY Fest application and an ArtAbility application before the deadline on April 1, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. MDT.
“We are excited to partner with Craft Lake City to offer this scholarship for artisans with disabilities. This is a great opportunity to showcase work and build small businesses. Employment is such an important part of many people’s lives and this is a way to support entrepreneurs with disabilities,” says Libby Oseguera, Executive Director of the Utah Developmental Disabilities Council. “We are glad to partner with an organization that intentionally creates space for all people at this well-attended and beloved event.”
The Utah Developmental Disabilities Council is a Utah State government office based in Murray, Utah that supports and empowers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve inclusive, meaningful and self-determined lives in their communities through its ongoing support of leadership, education, policy, and advocacy actions.
Craft Lake City started the DIY Fest Inclusion Program in 2016 to make the Annual Craft Lake City DIY Festival more inclusive to makers from all socioeconomic backgrounds. 2023 saw a 200% increase in the number of scholarships provided, with the Scholarship & Mentor Program expanding to 16 recipients at the DIY Fest alone. Craft Lake City now offers three scholarships through this program: the ArtAbility Scholarship, the Artisan Scholarship and the LGBTQ+ Scholarship.
At the 16th Annual Craft Lake City DIY Festival Presented By Harmons, makers will display and sell their handcrafted wares, connect with other local makers and build their business while befriending thousands of local dedicated DIY Fest patrons! Applications are open to Utah residents until Monday, April 1, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. MDT.