Arts+ and Do Greater Charlotte are partnering to offer a free 12-week afterschool program for 7th–10th grade students to design, make, and sell their own products! Students will use tools like Procreate on iPad to create logos and designs, turn them into items like tote bags, stickers, buttons, and keychains, and learn how to price and sell their products.  The program ends with a pop-up market, where students sell their handmade creations to family, friends, and the community!

Sep 16–Dec 16, 2026  | Wednesdays, 4:00-6:00pm

Start Upward Essentials is a 10-week after-school program for teens ready to transform their passions into real-world action! Through hands-on activities, inspiring guest speakers, and creative challenges, students will learn to dream big, take risks, and launch their ideas with confidence.  Program will meet each Mondays, Sep 21 -Dec 7, 4:00-6:00pm.

Students will leave Start Upward with:

• The skills to start and pitch their business
• Confidence to turn their ideas into reality
• Tools to articulate and refine their vision
• Clear next steps to bring their idea to life

If you are interested in learning more about Start Upward Essentials, email veronica@dogreater.org.