Creative Accelerator
The Creative Accelerator is an intensive 3-month development programme (11th of March until 27th of May 2026) designed to help creative enterprises grow and strengthen their market position. The programme focuses on developing sales and brand management skills through hands-on training workshops, mentoring sessions, and an inspiring community.
The Creative Accelerator is open to creative enterprises operating in Tartu and Southern Estonia to join a 3-month development programme that helps increase sales and manage company finances more strategically.
Participants gain practical tools for creating a sales strategy, manage their finances, learn to make better business decisions, and discover new opportunities for developing their products and services. By the end of the programme, participants will have a clear action plan for taking their business to the next level.
Who is it for?
For creative companies based in Tartu and Southern Estonia who want to grow faster, discover new opportunities for success, and get practical support in reaching their goals.
Why participate?
You’ll gain knowledge and skills in planning, analyzing, and managing your company’s finances. You’ll learn how to use data to make business decisions and improve your business model.
What will tou achieve?
By the end of the program, you’ll have a financial plan and a working sales strategy for your business. You’ll know how to make decisions and understand how to reach your goals.
PROGRAMM
The programme includes five training sessions, networking events, and three facilitated group meetings where participants can share experiences and learn from one another. In addition, each participant receives individual support through one-on-one meetings with mentors and the programme manager.
By the end of the programme, participants will understand the importance of brand and sales strategy and will have acquired the skills needed to make better decisions. Graduates will know how to take their business to the next level and achieve their sales goals.
AJAKAVA
11 March
Opening and Introductory Training 1: “My Company’s Story and Brand”
Introduction to the goals of the accelerator and principles of cooperation. The training focuses on an entrepreneur’s personal story, company identity, and brand. Participants define who they are as entrepreneurs, the value they create, and how to communicate their story convincingly and authentically.
12–18 March
1:1 Meetings with the Programme Manager – Goal Setting
Pre-arranged individual meetings to analyse each participant’s current situation, needs, and plans. Participants set realistic and measurable goals for the entire accelerator period.
18 March
Group Collaboration Session: Focus on Goals
Participants share their goals and receive feedback from peers and the facilitator. The session helps clarify goals and action plans, learn from others’ experiences, and build mutual support within the group.
25 March
Training 2: Marketing and Sales
A practical training focuses on the principles of marketing and sales. Topics include defining target groups, formulating a value proposition, marketing channels, and the fundamentals of sales. The aim is to provide participants with tools to make their products or services more visible and sellable.
1 April
Group Collaboration Session: How to Write a One-Page Company Overview
A collaborative session focuses on creating a clear one-page overview of the company. This document helps structure ideas, present the business to partners and mentors, and serves as a basis for future pitches and presentations.
8 April
Mentor Day: Meetings with Industry Mentors
On Mentor Day, participants meet experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts. Individual or small-group meetings provide an opportunity to ask for advice, receive honest feedback, and view one’s business from an external perspective.
15 April
Group Collaboration Session: Goal Review and Feedback
A mid-programme review session to assess progress toward set goals. Participants share achievements and challenges and receive constructive feedback from both the facilitator and the group to support further development.
16–28 April
Independent Work
A period dedicated to individual focus. Participants apply what they have learned in their own businesses, implement marketing or sales activities, and work based on recommendations received from mentors.
29 April
Training 3: Financial Management – Questions and Answers
This training focuses on planning and managing finances for creative entrepreneurs. Topics include managing costs and revenues, cash flow, and pricing. The Q&A format allows participants to address real-life situations and challenges.
6 May
Training 4: Creative Entrepreneurs’ Experience Stories – Business Models and a Changing Environment
An inspirational training where experienced creative entrepreneurs share their journeys, successes, and failures. The focus is on business model development, adapting to changing circumstances, and practical lessons learned.
7–19 May
1:1 Meetings with Industry Mentors
Mentor meetings that allow participants to dive deeper into topics most relevant to their business. These sessions support solving specific challenges and help make informed decisions for future growth.
20 May
Training 5: Presentation Skills and the Elevator Pitch
A training aimed at developing confidence and clear self-expression. Participants learn how to create and deliver a short, impactful elevator pitch and receive practical tips for public speaking and presenting their company.
27 May
Final Presentations and Accelerator Graduation
The programme finale, where participants present their business development progress and learning outcomes. This is an opportunity to celebrate the work done, reflect on key insights, receive feedback, and look ahead to next steps. The accelerator concludes with a joint summary and recognition.
All trainings and meetings take place from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Training session format: 1.5 hours of training + group reflection
Maret Ahonen - Head of the Creative Accelerator
Maret is an experienced entrepreneurship mentor and trainer who is passionate about supporting people and teams on their growth journey. She helps uncover strengths, build confidence, and take bold, meaningful steps forward. Maret is known for her warm presence and her ability to create a safe, encouraging space where ideas and people can grow.
She has long-standing experience in designing and delivering entrepreneurship education programs and in supporting early-stage startups. Previously, Maret led the University of Tartu Startup Lab.
More info maret@lmk.ee