The Institute of The Future

The Eden Youth Institute is a first-of-its-kind training ground for the next generation of artists, creators, and cultural leaders. Anchored at the University of Utah’s world renowned Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute and Sorenson Impact Center, and built on partnerships with leading universities across the US, the Institute brings together creativity, immersive technology, and entrepreneurship to pioneer a new model for cultural leadership in America.

Vision

Eden believes the artists who will define the next 250 years of American culture are already here. The Youth Institute develops them. By pairing artistic excellence with immersive technology and real-world entrepreneurship training, the Institute cultivates adaptive, visionary talent prepared to lead across arts, civic life, and the creative economy. With programming milestones aligned to America250 in 2026, the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and the 2034 Salt Lake City Winter Games, the Eden Youth Institute positions Utah as a global hub for arts-tech education and lasting cultural impact.

Core Focus Areas

  • Immersive Tech: Hands-on training in AR/VR, AI, gaming, and emergent media as tools for performance and storytelling.
  • Entrepreneurship & Impact: Applied learning through nationally recognized programs at Lassonde and Sorenson, developing artists who think like innovators.
  • Professional Development: Mentorship, residencies, and project-based collaboration with leading cultural institutions and creative industry partners.

Program Milestones

  • 2026 Pilot

    One-week intensive at the University of Utah with workshops, dance, performances, and an immersive project premiering for America250.

  • 2027-2030 Expansion

    Growth into a multi-week summer institute, year-round residencies, and competitions for arts-tech innovation.

  • 2030+

    Establishment of a dedicated Eden venue for immersive productions, residencies, and interdisciplinary labs.