Resources
Tools for young artrepreneurs
Free tools, lessons and opportunities at the meeting point of art and business, picked by our team.
01 · Make
Free design tools
Everything you need to start designing without paying for software.
- CanvaDrag-and-drop design for posts, flyers and presentations, with a free plan.
- FigmaProfessional design and prototyping tool, free for students and educators.
- Adobe ExpressQuick graphics, videos and templates with a free plan.
- CoolorsGenerate and save color palettes for a brand.
- Google FontsHundreds of free fonts you can use for personal and commercial work.
- UnsplashFree high-quality photos to use in your designs.
02 · Learn
Learn design
Free places to build your skills, from the basics to branding.
03 · Earn
Business & money basics
The business side of creative work: money, planning and mentorship.
- Khan Academy: Personal FinanceFree lessons on budgeting, saving, taxes and more.
- U.S. Small Business AdministrationGuides to planning, launching and managing a small business.
- SCOREFree mentoring and workshops for small business owners.
- Junior AchievementPrograms that teach students financial literacy and entrepreneurship.
04 · Grow
Competitions & programs for teens
Places to show your work and test your business ideas. Check each site for current deadlines and eligibility.
- Scholastic Art & Writing AwardsNational recognition program for creative teens in grades 7–12.
- Congressional Art CompetitionHigh school art contest; winning work hangs in the U.S. Capitol.
- DECAStudent organization with competitions in marketing, finance and entrepreneurship.
- FBLAFuture Business Leaders of America: competitive events and leadership for students.
- Diamond ChallengeGlobal entrepreneurship competition for high school students.
- NFTEEntrepreneurship programs and challenges for young people.
Tip from the team: keep every project you make for an AIA client. A small portfolio of real work for real organizations helps with competitions, college applications and your first paid gigs.
05 · From us
AIA-made guides Coming soon
Slides and guides from our workshops will live here. Want something specific? Tell us.