The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business

Build the House, That I May Take Pleasure In It.
– Haggai 1:8

Equipping Christians to impact the culture with faith, creativity, and biblical wisdom.

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business offers a transformative learning experience designed for anyone with a heart to build the Kingdom through business—whether you’re a seasoned professional or just beginning to explore your calling. With small cohorts of fewer than 10 students, you’ll benefit from personalized mentorship and a collaborative, Christ-centered community. Our flexible, live online courses are thoughtfully scheduled outside traditional work hours, making it easy to balance your studies with daily responsibilities. This program is more than theory—you’ll actively design and build a business that serves others, stewards resources, and reflects the wisdom of Scripture. Join us to grow in faith, creativity, and leadership while equipping yourself to make an eternal impact.

Format

Two-year fellowship of live online classes and in-person intensive weekends.

Tuition

$13,000 total or $10,400 total with the Early Payment Option

Courses

12 

Next Start Term: Fall 2025

Registration opens February 1, 2025

Our Communities Need Christ-Focused Business

In a world marked by division, materialism, and fleeting ambitions, our communities are longing for businesses and leaders who reflect the love and wisdom of Christ. Too often, enterprises are driven by self-interest rather than service, leading to fractured relationships, neglected needs, and a lack of true hope.

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business exists to address this void by preparing Christians to build businesses that restore, uplift, and point to the Kingdom of God. These aren’t just businesses—they are extensions of biblical community, where stewardship, Kingdom-mindedness, and love for others take precedence over worldly success.

We need entrepreneurs who will step forward with humility and boldness to:

• Create businesses that foster connection and unity.

• Innovate solutions that serve communities in need.

• Lead teams with Christlike vision and integrity.

• Demonstrate that the Gospel transforms every aspect of life, including the marketplace.

Now is the time to raise up faithful leaders who will make an eternal impact. Through their work, they can bring light to the darkest corners of our culture, building not just for today, but for eternity.

Answer the Call to Build for His Glory

Your journey to becoming a Kingdom-minded entrepreneur starts here. Join the Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business and equip yourself to lead with purpose, creativity, and unwavering faith.

We're Not an Incubator

The world is full of business incubators. The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business is not that. Before any idea can be expanded upon, it is important to discover what God wants for His world, how we can creatively partner with Him, and what a Kingdom-minded imagination can produce. With a focus on spiritual formation and deep thinking about the world around us, this center understands creativity to be a normal, human skill that God has given us to make much of His world.

Creativity is at the core of all cultural production. While the arts may be predominantly associated with making objects, the creative practice at the core of art and design is a fundamental part of all of human life and experience. Because of this, the businesses and the way in which we run them should be deeply infused with redeemed creativity that seeks new business creation as well as the increased humanization of already established audiences and customers. 

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business is about understanding business creation, development, and refinement through the lens of Christ. Business is not antithetical to creativity; instead it is the key component to how we might understand business as an avenue by which culture is built in the reality of Christ.

Finished ideas need not apply.

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business is not a place where you bring polished business plans or finished ideas—it’s where you bring your passions and a heart for becoming more like Christ in all that you do. Our program is designed to equip Christians at every level of knowledge, guiding you through the process of defining your mission, ideating creative solutions, prototyping concepts, and testing ideas—all within a prayerful, Christ-centered framework. Whether you have a clear vision or are just beginning to explore your calling, you’ll be supported as you grow in faith, creativity, and practical skills, ultimately building a business that glorifies God and serves others.

 

Define

Exploring the world as it is and how Scripture shows us it should be. Knowing who we are in relationship to a Holy God.

Prototype

Building ideas into working structures that glorify Jesus Christ. Trying, failing, fixing, and trying again.

Post it notes

IDEATe

Prayerfully generating possible solutions to the problems you see. Faithfully living out the call to care for the world and subdue it.

TEST

Confidently moving further into the calling to live as salt and light in the world. Consistently seeking the face of God as you do so.

A Community of Learners Under the Lordship of Christ

At the Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business, believers come together to explore how faith, creativity, and entrepreneurship can transform communities for the glory of God. Here, students learn to build businesses that reflect the love, wisdom, and truth of Scripture—ventures that serve others, strengthen communities, and point to the Gospel.

This is not just a program; it’s a community of like-minded Christians united by a shared desire to see the world renewed through Christ. Together, we sit beneath the Lordship of Jesus, seeking His guidance in every decision and every design. Our curriculum is rooted in biblical wisdom, focusing on stewardship, service, and the calling to create in ways that bring honor to God and flourishing to others.

Whether you’re developing a business idea, refining your leadership skills, or seeking to impact your community through innovation, you will grow alongside believers who are equally committed to advancing the Kingdom. Through prayer, collaboration, and the faithful study of God’s Word, we equip you to step into your calling as a builder of something eternal.

Have Questions?

Most frequent questions and answers

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business exists to equip and inspire Christian entrepreneurs, creatives, and business leaders to build ventures that reflect the truth, beauty, and goodness of God’s Kingdom. Rooted in a biblical worldview, the Center fosters a vision of business and creativity that is not merely about profit or personal expression, but about advancing the Gospel, shaping culture, and glorifying God through faithful, innovative work.

As part of The Maker Institute, the Center integrates deep theological insight with practical, hands-on training in entrepreneurship, design, and innovation. We believe that work is an act of worship, that creativity is a gift to be stewarded, and that businesses—when built on biblical principles—can be powerful instruments for human flourishing and Kingdom impact.

Through courses, mentorship, workshops, and a dynamic community of like-minded believers, the Center provides a rigorous yet faith-driven approach to launching and leading businesses that honor Christ. Whether you are an artist, designer, business owner, or innovator, our mission is to equip you with the skills, wisdom, and theological foundation to create boldly, build strategically, and lead faithfully in today’s world.

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business is built on the belief that work, creativity, and entrepreneurship are acts of worship and stewardship. We root all teaching in a biblical worldview, emphasizing that business should serve others and advance God’s Kingdom, while creativity should reflect His truth, beauty, and goodness. Our approach ensures that ethical integrity, servant leadership, and wise stewardship guide every aspect of business and creative practice.

We provide practical application of biblical wisdom, teaching entrepreneurs and creatives how to build businesses and designs that honor Christ. This includes ethical business practices, Biblical leadership, and financial stewardship. We also encourage faith-driven innovation, helping leaders create ventures that solve real problems, challenge secular narratives, and bring redemptive influence into industries.

Beyond instruction, the Center fosters a thriving community of Christian entrepreneurs, designers, and innovators committed to advancing the Gospel through their work. Through mentorship, networking, and collaboration, we equip individuals with the skills and biblical foundation to create, build, and lead faithfully. By integrating Scripture with practical strategy, we prepare business leaders and creatives to transform culture and industry for the glory of God.

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business is designed for Christian entrepreneurs, business owners, creatives, and students who want to integrate faith, innovation, and excellence into their work. Whether you are launching a startup, running a business, developing a creative practice, or exploring new ventures, the Center provides biblical wisdom and practical strategies to help you build with purpose. We equip individuals to create businesses and designs that serve others, reflect Kingdom values, and make a lasting impact.

Business owners and entrepreneurs will find courses, mentorship, and community support to help them lead with integrity, steward resources wisely, and scale their businesses for Kingdom impact. Creatives—whether designers, artists, or makers—will learn how to align their work with Biblical truth, creating meaningful projects that challenge secular narratives. Students and aspiring entrepreneurs will gain the theological foundation and business acumen needed to launch their careers with confidence and clarity.

Through a combination of education, mentorship, and collaboration, the Center provides a space for believers to grow in faith-driven creativity and entrepreneurship. Whether you are a seasoned leader or just beginning your journey, the Center equips you to pursue God-honoring work that transforms culture and industry for His glory.

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business offers live online courses combined with a handful of in-person intensive weekends each year. Our programs are designed to provide real-time instruction, interactive learning, and direct mentorship, allowing participants to engage deeply with both biblical principles and practical business and creative strategies. Whether you are a business owner, entrepreneur, or creative professional, our courses help you build ventures that honor Christ and make a lasting impact.

Our live online courses cover topics such as business design, ethical leadership, financial stewardship, branding, and creative entrepreneurship, providing structured learning in a collaborative setting. The in-person intensives offer immersive, hands-on training where participants can refine their business models, develop creative projects, and network with mentors and like-minded believers. These intensives are designed to deepen relationships, foster innovation, and provide focused coaching in a dynamic, faith-driven environment.

Beyond coursework, the Center fosters a thriving community of Christian business leaders and creatives, offering mentorship, peer support, and opportunities for collaboration. Through live instruction, real-world application, and intentional community, we equip participants to create, build, and lead with excellence, integrity, and a vision for Kingdom impact.

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business equips Christians to build businesses that serve others, honor God, and advance His Kingdom. We provide a biblically grounded approach to entrepreneurship, teaching that business is not just about profit but about stewardship, integrity, and human flourishing. Through our live online courses and in-person intensives, we train participants to align their business models with biblical wisdom, ensuring their work reflects God’s truth, beauty, and justice.

Our curriculum emphasizes ethical business practices, biblical leadership, and financial stewardship, helping entrepreneurs navigate challenges with wisdom and integrity. We teach practical skills in branding, marketing, innovation, and business strategy, ensuring that every venture is built on a strong foundation of excellence and biblical faithfulness. Through case studies, mentorship, and hands-on projects, participants learn how to create businesses that solve real problems, influence culture, and bring redemptive impact to their industries.

Beyond instruction, the Center fosters a Christ-centered entrepreneurial community, where believers connect, collaborate, and receive mentorship from experienced Christian business leaders and creatives. By combining theology with real-world application, we prepare participants to launch and lead businesses that are financially sustainable, ethically sound, and deeply impactful for the Kingdom of God.

Yes, the Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business provides mentorship as an extension of discipleship, recognizing that growth in business and creativity must be rooted in spiritual maturity. At the Maker Institute, mentorship is not just an add-on—it is central to everything we do, reflecting the biblical model of discipleship, where wisdom, skills, and faith are passed down through intentional relationships. Our live online courses and in-person intensives create spaces where participants are guided by experienced Christian entrepreneurs, business leaders, and creatives who walk alongside them in both their professional and spiritual journeys.

Our mentorship approach is deeply discipleship-driven, focusing on biblical leadership, ethical business practices, financial stewardship, and Kingdom impact. Participants receive not just business coaching, but biblical wisdom and accountability to help them navigate challenges with faithfulness and integrity. Through hands-on learning, real-world application, and one-on-one guidance, we equip entrepreneurs and creatives to build businesses and creative endeavors that glorify God, serve others, and stand on unshakable biblical principles.

Beyond structured mentorship, the Center cultivates a community of Christian entrepreneurs and creatives who support, challenge, and disciple one another. This network provides ongoing encouragement, accountability, and wisdom, ensuring that every participant is not only equipped with practical skills but also nurtured in a lifelong pursuit of Christ-centered leadership and Kingdom-building work.

Getting involved with the Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business is simple. If you’re interested in learning more about our programs, courses, or mentorship opportunities, you can contact us for more information or to set up a meeting. We’d love to connect and explore how the Center can equip you to build a business or creative practice that reflects Kingdom values.

If you’re ready to take the next step, you can apply using the link in the top navigation bar. Our application process is designed to ensure that each participant is well-positioned to benefit from our courses and community. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or student, we welcome you to join us in this mission to integrate faith, business, and creativity.

To stay updated on upcoming courses, events, and opportunities, leave your email address in the box below to be added to our mailing list. By joining our email community, you’ll receive insights, resources, and invitations to engage with the Center and connect with like-minded believers. We look forward to walking alongside you in this journey of faith-driven creativity and business.

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business is led by Dr. Garreth C. Blackwell, an experienced educator, entrepreneur, and creative professional with over 17 years of teaching experience at the college level. As the head of the program, Dr. Blackwell brings deep expertise in curriculum development, business design, innovation, and creative entrepreneurship, equipping students to build ventures that align with biblical principles. With a background in design, publishing, and business development, Dr. Blackwell has spent years helping entrepreneurs, creatives, and business owners strategically grow their work while maintaining a Kingdom-driven focus.

In addition to Dr. Blackwell’s leadership, the Center features a network of experienced Christian business leaders, designers, and entrepreneurs who serve as mentors and guest instructors. These professionals bring real-world insights, industry experience, and a commitment to biblical leadership, providing students with hands-on guidance in launching and scaling businesses that reflect Christ’s truth and excellence. Mentorship is at the heart of the Center’s approach, ensuring that each participant receives personalized support and discipleship as they develop their business and creative ventures.

The total cost for the Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business program is $13,000 for six semesters over two years. This cost is structured as follows:

Year One: Fall ($2,500), Spring ($2,500), Summer ($1,500)

Year Two: Fall ($2,500), Spring ($2,500), Summer ($1,500)

Students can pay per semester, spreading the cost over the two-year program. Alternatively, those who choose the Early Payment Option (EPO) can save 20% on tuition. The EPO requires students to pay for each year in full before the start of the Fall semester, reducing the total cost to $5,200 per year instead of $6,500, for a total program cost of $10,400.

We are committed to making this program accessible and encourage students to consider the best financial plan for their situation. For more details or to discuss payment options, please contact us for more information.

The Center for Christ, Creativity, and Business follows a structured academic calendar with Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters each year. Enrollment is open prior to the start of each Fall semester, with applications typically due in the late spring or early summer. To secure a spot in the program, prospective students should apply as early as possible, as spaces are limited.

For those choosing the Early Payment Option (EPO) to receive a 20% tuition discount, full payment for the upcoming year must be made before the start of the Fall semester. Additional important dates, including deadlines for tuition payments, in-person intensive weekends, and special events, will be provided upon enrollment.

To stay updated on exact deadlines and upcoming events, please check the application link in the top navigation bar, contact us for more details, or leave your email in the box below to receive updates.

Step Into Your Calling as a Kingdom Builder

Are you ready to create businesses that reflect God’s love and truth? Are you interested to discover how your entrepreneurial gifts can be used to advance the Kingdom of God? Take the first step by speaking with faculty to learn more about our program and how we can help you fulfill your God-given potential.

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