So far, the Artpreneurs program exists in Halifax, Bridgewater, Yarmouth and here in Sydney Mines.

TD Bank is a sponsor for Artpreneurs and additional funds have been received for the current project from the J.W. McConnell Family Foundation and the Nova Scotia Department of Community Services.

The Northside project came together as a partnership with Youth Art Connection (a registered charity that Veltmeyer co-founded approximately seven years ago), New Dawn Community Development Educational Foundation and Community Cares.

Veltmeyer noticed several young, talented artists who were not making the money they should and he responded by teaching these young people basic business skills.

The local project involves 11 young artists at the Sydney Mines location including a pop musician, a photographer as well as several traditional and digital artists.

After the artists cover the basic business information in weekly sessions, they take part in Art Celebration, an event which helps them launch their career as quickly as possible.

Veltmeyer is an experienced musician while Hubbert is an experienced visual artist — they pass on their skills and experience during these sessions.