We get it. Being an entrepreneur is not for the faint of heart.

As entrepreneurs, we desire to create change that allows us to be problem solvers while doing something that we truly love. At The Collective, we provide a positive, uplifting community that empowers entrepreneurs (just like us) to grow both personally and in our businesses. We achieve this community through three main facets: Membership, Events & Philanthropy.

MEMBERSHIP

Membership is more than just a label. It’s a commitment to constantly strive to grow and succeed, all while supporting other members while they strive to do the same. We truly believe that the more we work together as a collective group to support one another and grow, the more successful we will all be.

EVENTS

Each year, we host a number of markets and events across Northwest Indiana. The goal of each event is to support small business owners while giving back & raising awareness for an impactful nonprofit or cause in our community.

PHILANTHROPY

We love where we live, and we love doing what we can to give back to local nonprofits. At each market, we invite a nonprofit to set up a booth & provide free marketing leading up to the event for their organization. Our vendors also have the opportunity to donate a portion of the day’s sales to the nonprofit that the market is supporting.

Still not quite sure what we’re all about?

Read through some of the questions we’re asked most often, or reach out to us directly!

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  • We’d love to have you! Membership opens four times per year, so please visit our membership page to fill out an application or inquire about joining.

  • Nope! Membership is not a requirement to participate in our artisan markets, nor does membership guarantee acceptance into a market.

  • Although we are a non-discriminatory organization, our members are required to be entrepreneurs and own or be partial owner of their business(es).

    We look for members who are supportive of other small businesses, motivated to grow personally and professionally and are passionate about their community.

    We do not have any geographical restraints for membership, but those who are local to Northwest Indiana will benefit from attending workshops and networking events.

  • After open enrollment closes, applications are turned over to a small team of our members for review. We select entrepreneurs we feel have a true passion for their business and community. We look for individuals who are positive, want to be involved and will be true cheerleaders for other members.

  • No, our members own all types and sizes of businesses!

    We have artisans who are a one-person show to a production facility with dozens of employees. Member industries include marketing companies, photographers, restaurants, coffee shops, artists, gyms, wellness centers, a voice actor, boutiques and more.

    We are inclusive of all types of businesses and people. While we are all different and have different businesses, being entrepreneurs ties us together.