Lexington, Kentucky, November 20, 2025
The University of Kentucky’s Department of Arts Administration is set to host the eighth annual Fish Tank competition, showcasing innovative business ideas from students. This event, scheduled for November 18, provides a platform for students to pitch their arts entrepreneurship concepts to a panel of experts. With a goal of fostering creativity and entrepreneurial spirit in the arts, the Fish Tank encourages community involvement while supporting local economic growth. Emceed by an alumna, the free event welcomes the public to engage with emerging talent in Lexington.
Lexington, Kentucky – On November 18, 2025, the University of Kentucky’s Department of Arts Administration will host the eighth annual “Fish Tank: Emerging Entrepreneurs in the Arts” pitch competition at Awesome Inc. in downtown Lexington. This inspiring event is set to showcase innovative business concepts from students enrolled in the Arts Entrepreneurship course, underlining the university’s dedication to nurturing creativity and cultivating leadership within the arts sector.
The competition encourages students to present their final project ideas to a panel of distinguished judges, comprised of notable figures in the arts and entrepreneurial community. Each participant will have five minutes to pitch their concept, followed by an engaging Q&A session with the judges, providing students with real-world feedback and insights. This dynamic interaction highlights the role that small businesses and entrepreneurial innovation play in revitalizing local economies.
The Fish Tank event is aimed at fostering a spirit of entrepreneurship among arts administration students, motivating them to think critically and creatively about how to effect positive change in the industry. It reflects a broader commitment to developing a robust, entrepreneurial landscape in Lexington, where artistic ventures can thrive with minimal regulatory burdens. Encouraging local young talent is crucial for the long-term economic growth of the region and promotes a culture of achievement and resilience.
### Key Features of the Fish Tank Event
The competition not only serves as an educational platform but also aligns with the spirit of Global Entrepreneurship Week. The partnership between the University of Kentucky College of Fine Arts, the UK Department of Arts Administration, Thought Partner, and Awesome Inc. emphasizes collaborative efforts to engage students with practical entrepreneurial experiences. By providing a free event open to the public, the Fish Tank encourages community involvement, adding another layer of support for the arts in Lexington.
Participation in events like Fish Tank is crucial for fostering connections between students and established business leaders, paving the way for potential mentorship opportunities and collaborations. The judges, including entrepreneurs and arts consultants, bring diverse perspectives that can inspire students and help hone their visions into viable business ventures.
### Conclusion
The eighth annual Fish Tank competition is poised to be a landmark event for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs in Lexington. With a supportive environment that promotes creativity and innovation, it empowers students to share their artistic projects while engaging with the community and industry professionals. This initiative is a testament to the strength of local partnerships and the entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Lexington.
As the event approaches, it presents an excellent opportunity for community members to engage with the next generation of artists and entrepreneurs. Residents are encouraged to attend and support these emerging talents, which will ultimately contribute to the cultural and economic vibrancy of Lexington.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Fish Tank: Emerging Entrepreneurs in the Arts?
Fish Tank is an experiential learning event hosted by the University of Kentucky’s Department of Arts Administration, where students present their arts entrepreneurship project ideas to a panel of judges, faculty, peers, and community members. Each team has five minutes to pitch their concept, followed by a Q&A session with judges experienced in entrepreneurship, social innovation, and entertainment management.
When and where is the 8th annual Fish Tank event taking place?
The 8th annual Fish Tank event is scheduled for Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 7 p.m. at Awesome Inc., located at 348 E. Main St., Lexington, Kentucky.
Who is emceeing the event?
The event is emceed by UK alum Harper Oglesby Smith, who returns to Fish Tank after her own experience as an undergraduate arts administration major in 2020.
Is the event open to the public?
Yes, the event is free and open to the public, but registration is required due to limited seating.
Who are the partners involved in organizing Fish Tank?
Fish Tank is a partnership between the University of Kentucky College of Fine Arts, UK Department of Arts Administration, Thought Partner, and Awesome Inc.
Key Features of the Fish Tank Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Fish Tank: Emerging Entrepreneurs in the Arts |
| Date and Time | Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at 7 p.m. |
| Location | Awesome Inc., 348 E. Main St., Lexington, Kentucky |
| Emcee | UK alum Harper Oglesby Smith |
| Registration | Free and open to the public; registration required due to limited seating |
| Partners | University of Kentucky College of Fine Arts, UK Department of Arts Administration, Thought Partner, and Awesome Inc. |
| Parking | Free in the Phoenix Garage surface lot after 5:00 PM on weekdays |
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