AI and Artistic Innovation

In this episode, we discuss how AI is transforming creativity in fields like ceramics, photography, music, and woodworking. With real-life examples like Stephanie's use of AI for craft designs and Steve's insights on integrating AI in small creative businesses, we explore how artists balance tradition with innovation. Learn strategies for...

Creative Insights and Marketing with ChatGPT

Stephanie and Steve discuss how ChatGPT helps generate unique project ideas, refine artistic content, and conduct quick research. They also explore how AI simplifies marketing tasks like SEO, social media posts, and ad copy while maintaining authenticity and transparency. Tune in for practical advice on harnessing AI to both empower...

AI for Creatives — It’s ACTUALLY an aide!

Is AI a threat or a tool for creativity? Join us as we discuss the ethical implications and practical applications of AI in the arts, featuring real-world examples and insightful conversations.  Learn how AI is empowering artists and artisans to streamline their businesses and unlock new creative possibilities, all while...

From Bars to Business–The Podcast

The Covation Center is excited to present the podcast series From Bars to Business, a compelling exploration of how individuals with criminal records are overcoming barriers to re-enter society and rebuild their lives. A criminal record doesn’t have to be a life sentence, yet many people face significant challenges when...

Small Business Grant and Loan application

The SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan has a unique aspect – a “rapid advance” of $10,000 that is not required to be repaid – AKA, a grant. The process to apply for this grant is simple, and has few requirements for application, however the funds are limited, so early application...

KIVA loans — a “zero percent” alternative

Our Executive Director talks with Aden Wertz about the Kiva Loan program. Kiva loans are “crowd sourced” loans where people from across your community, and around the world, will loan money to enable a business to expand, grow, or operate. There are a number of changes in response to the...

Covid 19 and PA Unemployment Compensation

Welcome to the Covation Business Talks Podcast. This is the first episode, and we jump right in to the discussion about Pennsylvania’s changes to the Unemployment Compensation process due to the response to COVID 19. Now this process is subject to change as the challenges ahead change, but we recorded...

Understanding your customer during tough times

We all have faced some interesting challenges in these last few months. Have you shifted your business model? Is your current model serving you well? By examining your business’ value proposition and customer segmentation, you may realize that there are new needs for you to fill. At the Covation Center,...

The Covation Center adapts amid COVID-19 challenges

 The Covation Center has, like so many others, gone through changes during this COVID time. Coworking (actually being in a shared office) has changed. We now encourage masks, and separation when possible. Coaching has changed--we now do video meetings through Zoom. Our cohort program has even changed-- we have...