1. Executive Summary
The INDI Group is a Cleveland-based creative organization focused on youth empowerment, entrepreneurship in the arts, and community revitalization. Through our flagship initiative, the INDI Art House, we are transforming vacant properties into vibrant creative hubs that provide programming, studio space, and entrepreneurial training for underserved youth. We are currently seeking investment to scale our impact, complete our Buckeye neighborhood location, and expand into CMSD schools.

2. Our Mission
To empower inner-city youth through arts, mental wellness, and entrepreneurial education, while revitalizing communities through creative placemaking.

3. The Problem

• Cleveland ranks among the highest in child poverty in the U.S.

• The Buckeye neighborhood is a food desert with limited youth programming, mental health resources, or safe creative spaces.

• Youth have limited access to career pathways in the arts or entrepreneurship.

4. Our Solution

• Host community-driven events like the Be Happy Block Party to foster engagement and awareness.

• Operate INDI Art House: a multipurpose space for art creation, education, and healing.

• Deliver arts and entrepreneurship programming in CMSD schools, free for students.

• Provide mentorship, training, and workspace for youth and emerging creatives.

5. Impact to Date

• 4 successful annual Be Happy Block Parties with over 300 total attendees.

• Programming delivered to over 150 youth participants.

• Secured funding from Saint Luke's Foundation, Marsha P. Johnson Institute, and Fifth Third Bank.

• Renovation in progress for INDI Art House in Buckeye.

6. 2025 Goals

• Complete Phase 3 of the INDI Art House renovation.

• Launch programming in 20 CMSD schools.

• Reach 500+ youth with free programming.

• Expand retail and studio space for youth-led brands.

• Host our 5th Annual Be Happy Block Party featuring Domani Harris.

7. Use of Funds
We are seeking $100,000 in investment to support:

• Staff salaries and program facilitators

• Studio equipment and materials for fashion, music, and media

• School-based program operations (transportation, curriculum, supplies)

• Final phase of INDI Art House renovation

• Marketing, outreach, and youth recruitment

8. Business Model

• Retail Sales & E-Commerce: Expanding INDI-branded apparel and youth-led fashion lines through online and in-store sales, providing consistent cash flow.

• Creative Services: Studio rentals, video and music production, graphic design, and content creation services for local artists and small businesses.

• Youth Brand Incubation: Supporting student-led businesses by offering startup resources and taking a small equity stake or commission on sales.

• Events & Experiences: Ticketed events, curated pop-ups, and merchandise sales tied to artist showcases and community festivals.

• Public & Private Partnerships: Securing ongoing grants, institutional partnerships, and corporate sponsorships aligned with workforce development and youth engagement goals.

9. Future Job Creation
With full funding, we project to create 8-10 jobs within 1-3 years, including:

• Program coordinators

• Teaching artists

• Youth interns and apprentices

• Operations and retail staff

10. Why Invest in INDI
Investing in INDI is investing in the future of Cleveland. We are not only nurturing the next generation of artists and entrepreneurs, but also building sustainable models for community healing, youth development, and economic empowerment.