Annual Programs
BTS Academy
BTS Academy is Bigger Than Sneakers’ signature free summer program that empowers high school students to discover their potential through creativity, innovation, and real-world experiences.
Designed for students entering grades 9–11, the two-week academy connects participants with professionals from leading brands and organizations across the fashion, footwear, marketing, and creative industries. Through hands-on workshops, mentorship, and collaborative projects, students gain valuable skills while exploring career paths they may have never imagined.
Every participant receives an iPad and accessories to support their learning experience. Throughout the program, students hear from industry leaders, participate in interactive workshops, visit inspiring workplaces, and work together to develop a final capstone project that showcases their creativity, growth, and entrepreneurial thinking.
At Bigger Than Sneakers, we believe every young person deserves the opportunity to dream big, build confidence, and Unbox Their Potential. BTS Academy is designed to inspire the next generation of creators, innovators, and leaders.
See You in Summer 2027
Thank you to our incredible 2026 students, mentors, volunteers, and partners for making this year’s academy an unforgettable experience.
BTS Academy will return in Summer 2027. Applications and program dates will be announced in early 2027.
Follow Bigger Than Sneakers on social media or subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to know when applications open.
Sound Labs
Adidas Sound Labs is a music production initiative presented by Adidas, Bigger Than Sneakers, and Mellow Sounds Academy, created to empower the next generation of artists, producers, and creative thinkers through hands-on learning and mentorship.
Designed for students with a passion for music and creativity, the program introduces participants to beat-making, music production, audio technology, and the creative process behind bringing original ideas to life. Throughout the program, students collaborate with peers, learn from experienced music professionals, and gain valuable insight into careers within the music and entertainment industries.
More than a music program, Adidas Sound Labs is an opportunity for young people to build confidence, express themselves creatively, and develop skills that extend far beyond the studio. The program concludes with a community showcase, where students share their original work and celebrate everything they’ve accomplished.
At Bigger Than Sneakers, we believe creativity has the power to open doors and transform lives. Adidas Sound Labs is one of the many ways we help young people discover their talents, pursue new possibilities, and Unbox Their Potential.
Stay Connected
We’re incredibly grateful to the students, mentors, teaching artists, and community partners who have made Adidas Sound Labs such a meaningful experience. Follow Bigger Than Sneakers for updates on future programs, community initiatives, and opportunities to get involved.
- Please update the Pop-Up Shop Opportunities copy. I’ve linked the pop-up shop request form in the last line of this copy.
Have a brand you want to share with the community? Bigger Than Sneakers (BTS), in partnership with CORPORATE, offers pop-up shop opportunities for entrepreneurs, small businesses, artists, and creatives looking to showcase their products in a unique retail environment.
Our pop-up program is designed to help emerging brands connect with new customers, grow their visibility, and become part of the CORPORATE community, all while supporting the mission of Bigger Than Sneakers.
Available Locations
Weekend pop-up opportunities are available (subject to availability) at:
- CORPORATE Cincinnati
- CORPORATE Dayton
- CORPORATE Indianapolis
How to Apply
All pop-up shop requests must be submitted through our Pop-Up Shop Request Form.
To ensure adequate planning and scheduling, applications must be submitted at least 30 days prior to your requested event date.
Once your application is received, our team will:
- Review your brand and application
- Confirm store availability
- Evaluate your request
- Notify you of an approval or decline within 5–7 business days
Approved vendors will receive a Pop-Up Vendor Guide with event details, marketing information, arrival instructions, and next steps.
Participation Fee
A $200 participation fee is required for all approved pop-up shops.
- Vendors keep 100% of their sales
- The participation fee directly supports the mission of Bigger Than Sneakers, helping us continue creating life-changing opportunities for young people through mentorship, education, and community programming.
Ready to bring your brand to CORPORATE?
Pop Up Shop Opportunities
To further support our community, Bigger Than Sneakers (BTS) has partnered with Corporate to host pop-up shop opportunities for small businesses and creatives. This initiative provides a platform for entrepreneurs to showcase their products, grow their brand, and connect with new audiences in a dynamic retail environment.
Pop-ups are available on weekends at all Corporate locations:
- Corporate Cincinnati
- Corporate Indianapolis
- Corporate Dayton
For more information or to get involved, please contact Crystal Hooper at crystal@biggerthansneakers.org.
