- info@wichitaarts.com
- 303 S Broadway Ave #516 | Wichita, KS 67202
FORGE is an immersive five-week leadership experience designed for Wichita artists, arts administrators, educators, and cultural advocates who are ready to strengthen their voices and help shape our city’s future. Participants will go behind the scenes of local government, learn directly from civic and community leaders, and discover how to turn their creative perspectives into meaningful action.
The inaugural cohort is limited to eight participants. Applications will close Friday, September 4, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
Over five weeks, participants will explore how Wichita works, strengthen their leadership and communication skills, and learn how to turn creative perspectives into community impact.
WEEK ONE
Discover how local government works through a two-day Civic Engagement Academy.
01
WEEK two
Explore economic development, the role of the arts, and what it means to lead change.
02
WEEK three
Develop stronger messaging, media skills, and an effective elevator speech.
03
WEEK four
Build practical leadership skills through an interactive Kansas Leadership Center workshop.
04
WEEK five
Learn how city and county budgets, priorities, and decisions affect Wichita’s creative community.
05
The Wichita Area Arts Council champions the arts as an essential part of a thriving community. Through advocacy, education, connection, and support, we work to strengthen Wichita’s creative sector and ensure artists have a voice in the decisions shaping our city.
FORGE extends that mission by preparing creatives to become informed advocates, confident leaders, and active participants in Wichita’s future.
FORGE is designed for Wichita-area artists, arts administrators, educators, and cultural organization volunteers who are ready to strengthen their voices and take a more active role in our community.
Applicants must be at least 21 years old. Independent creatives are encouraged to apply. Only one participant per organization may be accepted each year.
FORGE begins with a two-day Civic Engagement Academy on Monday, September 28, and Tuesday, September 29, from 12:00–5:30 p.m. at Wichita City Hall.
Additional sessions will be held October 6, 13, 20, and 29 from 11:30 a.m.–1:10 p.m. at Evergy Connect or CityArts.
A $25 program fee helps cover lunches during the October sessions. Program materials and handouts are provided.
Most participation costs are generously supported by the K. T. Wiedemann Foundation and the Wichita Area Arts Council. If the fee would prevent you from participating, please contact Connie Bonfy at executivedirector@wichitaarts.com.
The inaugural FORGE cohort is limited to eight participants. Because each session builds upon the last, accepted applicants must commit to attending and actively participating in the entire program. Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance.
Applications must be submitted by Friday, September 4, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.
For questions about the Collaboration Grant, eligibility requirements, or assistance with the application process, please contact executivedirector@wichitaarts.com.