Silk Road LEAP is a free, 8-week leadership and entrepreneurship program presented by Culturingua, with support from NALCAB and UTSA Arts, for emerging artists ages 18–24 who want to strengthen their leadership skills, develop an entrepreneurial mindset, and explore new opportunities to grow their creative careers.

The program takes place in the Silk Road Cultural Heritage District, an emerging arts and cultural district in northwest San Antonio that celebrates creativity, cultural exchange, and entrepreneurship. We envision the district as a place where artists create, collaborate, exhibit, and build sustainable creative careers.

Through Silk Road LEAP, you'll develop new skills, connect with fellow artists, and become part of a growing creative community in the Silk Road Cultural Heritage District.

⏰ Application Deadline Extended to September 20, 2026 

Participants will have the opportunity to:

✨ Develop and refine a creative project or business idea

🎤 Present a final pitch

🏆 Compete for cash awards*:

      🥇 First Place – $500

      🥈 Second Place – $300

      🥉 Third Place – $200

🖼️ Be considered to showcase their work at the 2027 Silk Road District Festival and/or Kinected Art Gallery

*Cash awards are intended to support participants' educational pursuits and/or the development or implementation of their creative project or business idea.

Participation is limited, and applicants will be selected through a competitive review process based on their artistic potential, interest in leadership and entrepreneurship, and commitment to participating fully in the program.

Program Details:

⏰ Application Deadline: September 20, 2026

🗓️ Program Dates: September 30 – November 18, 2026

🕠 Schedule: Wednesdays, 5:30–7:00 p.m.

📍 Location: Culturingua, 10401 W. I-10, San Antonio, TX 78230

✉️ Questions? Contact us at: smallbusiness@culturingua.com