Below is a resource for Artists, Makers or any creatives who would benefit from adding structure or planning to their practices.

You can cut sections out that don’t work for you at this point. The main driver for this template is to help create some structure and simple goals.

Creative Practice Business Planning Template

This flexible template is designed for artists and creative practitioners at any stage. Use it to clarify goals, track progress, and plan growth across quarters or seasons.

1. Vision and Core Goals

  • What is your overall aim for your creative practice?

  • What does success look like this year (financially, creatively, or personally)?

  • List 3–5 specific goals for the upcoming quarter. They can be as small or large as you like

2. Key Dates and Events

  • Exhibitions, commissions, public art installations

  • Deadlines (e.g., open calls, residencies)

  • Product launches, workshops, collaborations

3. Creative Output Goals

  • What work will you create this quarter?

  • How many pieces? What scale or theme?

  • How will the work be documented?

4. Marketing and Audience Growth

  • What platforms are you focusing on (e.g., Instagram, newsletter, TikTok)?

  • What strategies are you using (e.g., behind-the-scenes content, sharing work or targeted ads)?

  • How will you measure success (follower growth, engagement, reach)?

Optional Prompts:

  • Collaborate with other creatives?

  • Launch a targeted ad campaign?

  • Refresh your social media bio/visual identity?

5. Website and Online Shop

  • What updates are needed for your site (new photos, SEO, e-commerce)?

  • Is your shop functional? Are products listed clearly with pricing?

  • What’s your strategy for driving traffic to your site?

6. Income Streams

  • Where do you want your income to come from this quarter? (Art sales, prints, workshops, commissions, grants, etc.)

  • What’s your pricing strategy?

  • What sales targets or financial goals are you setting? If Any?

7. Gallery and Professional Opportunities

  • What tier or type of galleries are you aiming to approach?

  • Are there open calls or collectives to apply to?

  • Do you need a portfolio/PDF presentation to send out?

  • Are there events you can attend or network at?

8. Professional Development

  • What skills or knowledge areas would support your growth right now?

  • Are there short courses, tutorials, or talks you want to attend?

  • Is there a peer or mentor you could connect with?

9. Reflections and Adjustments

  • What worked well last quarter?

  • What didn’t work or needs adjusting?

  • What new ideas or opportunities have emerged?

10. Action Plan by Month

Break your quarter into months and list specific actions.

Month 1:

Month 2:

Month 3:

Use this as a living document to stay focused and motivated. Check in monthly to see how you’re progressing, and tweak where needed.

Your creative practice is a business — build it your way.