Our Approach
Consulting and Change Management Services
Customized programs and consulting that equip arts leaders and artists to adapt, collaborate, and thrive through change. Designed for nonprofit leaders, artists, arts administrators, and cultural workers at every stage of their careers.
Our core services include:
- Executive Coaching
- Strategic Planning
- Staff Training
- Organizational Strategy
- Online Learning (via LearningSource)
"It really has been the best professional development experience that I have had since becoming an executive director and has been critical in shaping my leadership, responding to the pandemic, addressing racial injustice, and supporting my community."
Lori Roddy
Executive Director, Neutral Zone
The CultureSource Method
Adaptive changemaking is CultureSource’s method for guiding arts and culture leaders through complexity. Combining adaptive leadership practices and systems thinking, we support leaders in testing new approaches, strengthening collaboration, and building capacity for sustained change.
Our Foundation
EmcArts Legacy
EmcArts, a social enterprise for innovation and adaptive change in the arts, built a 20-year legacy of strengthening leaders and organizations. Now acquired by CultureSource, its integration into our organization established the foundation for our consulting services, ensuring adaptive changemaking remains central to how we support our sector.
Popular Programs
Explore some of our most popular offerings, available to book anytime or learn more about them below.
Create a Strategic
Plan
Access Online
Courses and Toolkits
Develop Staff
Leadership
Team Strengthening
Workshops
Our online learning platform
developed with Bloomberg Philanthropies
LearningSource is a cloud-based platform that supports CultureSource’s adaptive changemaking programs. It houses curated readings, videos, reflection prompts, worksheets, and presentations that prepare participants for in-person sessions, deepen learning between engagements, and remain available afterward as a lasting resource.
Where to Start
Begin your journey in three steps: explore our programs below, book a consultation, and launch into learning with us.
Whether you’re an individual leader, a foundation investing in sector-wide development, or representing an entire organization, our programs are designed to meet you where you are and guide you forward.
Coaching and Customized Services
Leadership and organizational development tailored to your needs, led by trained facilitators. Book anytime.
Executive Coaching
Personalized coaching sessions for arts and culture professionals at any stage of their careers.
Belbin Team Roles Workshop
A team-based service uncovering working styles and strengthening collaboration.
Strategic Planning
A 9–10 month consulting process to create a living, adaptive alternative to a traditional strategic plan.
Facilitated Team Workshops
Interactive sessions designed to strengthen collaboration, build practical skills, and support professional growth.
”This program is really tailored to people who want to make change, people who want to be introspective about their leadership practice and who are interested in trying to elevate their ability to make an impact, not only with their team and their team culture, but also with the community.
Christian GreerPresident and CEO, Michigan Science Center
National Leadership Development Programs
Designed for organizations seeking national-scale professional development experiences. Programs can be booked and delivered in your community.
Arts Leaders as Cultural Innovators (ALACI)
A 9-month leadership and community-building program for early-career executives and artistic directors.
Adapting to Digital Tech in the Arts
Blending digital literacy with adaptive leadership for early-career arts administrators.
Youth Adaptive Leadership
An 8-week intensive equipping high school students with adaptive leadership mindsets and skills.
Facilitator Institute
An intensive course for professionals who lead group learning, planning, or strategy sessions.
Foundations of Adaptive Leadership
A hands-on workshop introducing teams to adaptive leadership frameworks and tools.
Artists as Change Agents
Participants learn how to activate their artistic practice as a force for change, building skills to influence communities and systems.
”The program provided me with frameworks and facilitation strategies that directly inform my work… I now approach facilitation with greater intentionality, adaptability, and care for collective learning.
Jamie SharpSenior Program Manager, Grant Makers in the Arts
Deep Dive Learning
Structured multi-year journeys for organizations to address complex challenges.
Adaptive Changemaking Lab
Across convenings, leadership seminars, and extended coaching, arts leaders explore emerging technologies, strengthen adaptive skills, and implement innovative prototypes within their organizations.
Staging Change
A multi-stage program helping performing arts organizations build capacity for innovation and resilience through hands-on learning, coaching, and experimentation.
”The [Collaborative R&D] Labs gave me something I rarely get in my day-to-day, dedicated time to connect with other local leaders who are also navigating digital transformation. It was energizing to exchange ideas, explore new tools and concepts, and test approaches I could bring back to improve workflows at Detroit PBS.
Eric FreelandVice President of Marketing and Digital, Detroit PBS
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of organizations do you work with?
Our Changemaking practice builds on the legacy of EmcArts and more than 20 years of innovation in the arts. Since 2022, CultureSource has carried this work forward—partnering with arts and culture organizations across the country to navigate complexity and strengthen resilience.
What is the cost or investment required?
Cost & Investment
Each engagement is tailored to your organization’s goals, scale, and readiness for change. Investment levels vary accordingly, and we’ll outline a clear range for your selected tier. From the start, our team maintains open communication about costs, ensuring transparency and alignment at every stage of the process.
Coaching & Consulting
Engagements generally range from $1,000–$5,000, depending on scope and duration.
Leadership Development Programs
Participation is typically around $5,000 per person, with overall program costs ranging from $50,000–$80,000 per cohort, depending on scope. These learning experiences are often supported by philanthropic partners, who help make scholarships available to participants.
R&D Labs
Multi-year, large-scale engagements supported by institutions or foundations; investment levels are developed collaboratively, often beginning at $10,000.
How will I hear about new opportunities and special programs for members?
CultureSource members receive early access to special programs and newly developed resources, as well as scholarship opportunities when available. We share these updates through our member newsletter, so be sure to stay subscribed and check regularly.
Who are these programs for?
They are designed for arts and culture leaders at all career stages — from emerging professionals to seasoned executives — as well as organizations looking to build adaptive capacity and strengthen collaboration.