ELEVATE Mississippi, an initiative of Our Village United, is a business development program tailored for Mississippi entrepreneurs in the growth stage. It targets those with annual revenue under $100,000 who are seeking to expand their operations and overcome challenges to sustainable scaling. The program provides a structured support system, including mentorship, training, and access to resources, all aimed at empowering local business owners to elevate their enterprises and contribute to the state's economic vitality. While the program is not a traditional arts residency or exhibition opportunity, its emphasis on narrative and holistic investment aligns with the values of creative practitioners who approach their work as a business. The application process encourages a strong narrative around one's business journey and current needs, reflecting a curatorial interest in the whole person rather than just the venture. This approach resonates with artists and creatives who often must articulate the intersection of their artistic vision and economic sustainability. The program represents a $10,000 value, with a required membership fee of $125. This fee, while modest, is framed as a commitment mechanism: "when you invest in yourself, you show up differently." Participants are supported by a dedicated program manager and the entire OVU team, ensuring personalized guidance. For creative practitioners in Mississippi, this could serve as a strategic opportunity to fortify the business infrastructure of their practice, whether in visual arts, writing, film, or performance.