Support Artists. Strengthen Community.
Donate to DAC’s 2026 Visionary Campaign
The Developing Artist Collaboration (DAC) empowers artists to build sustainable creative careers while creating vibrant cultural experiences for our community. Through artist development programs, public arts spaces, and community events, DAC connects artists and audiences in ways that strengthen the local creative economy.
Our 2026 Goal: $235,000
DAC’s 2026 fundraising strategy supports artist development, cultural programming, and the continued growth of our creative ecosystem.
Funding Goals
$85,000 — Individual Giving
Support from community members who believe in investing in artists.
$45,000 — Creative Market Sponsorships
Business partners supporting the West Side Creative Market and public arts programming.
$105,000 — Grants and Institutional Support
Foundation and state funding that strengthens DAC’s artist workforce development programs.
How Your Support Makes an Impact
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Supporting our Local Artists
In 2026, DAC will grow its artist network to 500 members, expand in-person Artist Connect groups from 2 to 5 cohorts, and launch new business education resources for emerging artists. Expanded Creative Market infrastructure and new weekend hours at the Artpothecary will create more consistent platforms for artists to connect with audiences and generate income.
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Expanding Emerge to New Castle County
DAC will expand our Emerge creative workforce development program statewide through a partnership with the Delaware Art Museum, doubling capacity by running two cohorts while strengthening the curriculum and preparing for regional expansion in 2027.
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Investing in Our Creative Community
DAC will deepen connections between artists and the public through the West Side Creative Market, expanded Artpothecary programming, and a new Creative Market Tour Experience, creating meaningful cultural engagement and lasting relationships between artists and our community.
Become A 2026 Creative Market Sponsor
Businesses like Lori and Jenn have been part of the Creative Market since the very first season in 2021 because they believe in what happens when artists and community come together. The West Side Creative Market has grown into one of the region’s most vibrant cultural gatherings, bringing thousands of residents and visitors together to support local artists, small businesses, and creative experiences.
By becoming a 2026 Creative Market Sponsor, you’re not just supporting DAC, you’re investing in artists, strengthening the local creative economy, and aligning your brand with one of the most exciting cultural movements happening in our community.
How it works:
If you’re interested in being a sponsor, you’re invited to Illuminating DAC, our DAC Visionary Investor and community partner event on Monday, May 4 5-7PM (RSVP below)
Select your sponsorship level by May 15, 2026
Enjoy your perks and investment all summer long, with perks culminating at our TacoMania event.
2026 Sponsorship Levels
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Drive Artist Opportunity - $5000
Leaders helping drive opportunities for artists and cultural programming.
(2 Available) Benefits
• Large Prominent logo placement at Creative Market, visible from the road.
• Recognition on DAC website and sponsor materials
• Private Event at the Artpothecary for up to 30 guests
• VIP Creative Market Tour Experience for up to 12 guests.
• VIP booth access at the End of Summer Banger
• 4 VIP TacoMania tickets + Handmade Thank You Gift from a DAC Artist -
Advocate for Creative Careers - $2500
Supporters advocating for artists and strengthening the creative economy.
(8 Available) Benefits
• Large Logo sign on the front of Creative Market (entrance facing fence)
• Recognition on DAC website and sponsor materials
• VIP Creative Market Tour Experience for up to 12 guests.
• VIP booth access at the End of Summer Banger
• 4 VIP TacoMania tickets + Handmade Thank You Gift from a DAC Artist -
Champion the Creative Community - $1000
Community champions investing in artists and public arts experiences.
(Unlimited) Benefits
• VIP Creative Market Tour Experience for up to 12 guests.
• VIP booth access at the End of Summer Banger
• 4 VIP TacoMania tickets + Handmade Thank You Gift from a DAC Artist
Join Us at Illuminating DAC - May 5th 4-7PM
Illuminating DAC is an evening designed to introduce new friends and supporters to the mission and impact of the Developing Artist Collaboration.
On Monday, May 5th 4-7PM, guests will gather at the West Side Creative Market for an elevated community mixer that offers a firsthand look at how DAC is transforming the local creative economy.
Throughout the evening, DAC staff, artists, and board members will host immersive booths sharing stories of the artists, programs, and partnerships that make our work possible. Guests will enjoy premium drinks, light bites, and meaningful conversations while exploring the space and meeting the creatives behind the movement.
This year’s event is especially meaningful as we will officially unveil the new Creative Market awning, a major milestone that allows the market to operate rain or shine and expand opportunities for artists and community programming.
Illuminating DAC is designed for curious community leaders, business partners, and friends of the arts to experience the energy of our work up close — and to help spark the next chapter of support for artists in our region.
Suggested Guests: Community leaders, business partners, potential sponsors, and friends of the arts - please bring a friend who you think should meet us too.
The Future of Creative Community Starts Here
Since 2017, the Developing Artist Collaboration has grown from grassroots artist gatherings into one of Delaware’s most vibrant creative ecosystems. What began as a small effort to support emerging artists has evolved into a network of programs that connect artists with business tools, community, and real economic opportunity.
Today, DAC is helping artists build sustainable careers, activating spaces like the West Side Creative Market and Artpothecary, and creating cultural experiences that bring thousands of people together each year.
Your support helps us continue building a future where artists thrive, communities are enriched by culture, and creativity becomes a powerful driver of connection and opportunity.
Learn more about DAC’s mission, vision, and journey →