Helping to Create Creative Businesses

The creative industry is one of UK economy’s fastest-growing sectors, with employment growth averaging at 2.3% per year over the past decade. Creative businesses play a vital role in shaping our cultural landscape by driving innovation and contributing to economic growth. From commercial design firms to independent artists, these enterprises are a thriving part of the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Unfortunately, the creative industry faces unique challenges that can also make it harder to succeed. In the UK, the failure rate for creative start-ups is said to be around 50%, with one significant issue being access to adequate funding.

The Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership (LLEP) and the East Midlands Creative Consortium (EMC) acknowledge the immense importance of the creative industry, not just as an artistic and cultural force but also as an economic driver. They understand that creative start-ups play a vital role in creating jobs and enriching the region’s cultural and creative heritage. For this reason, the LLEP and EMC have launched their ‘Create Growth’ programme, offering targeted support to creative entrepreneurs and businesses.

What is the Create Growth Programme?

The LLEP and EMC pooled resources to identify ways in which their specialist assistance could benefit the region’s creative industry. They partnered to design a free programme after successfully securing one of six regional funding bids from UK Government; part of a greater £7 million investment fund which is set to invigorate England’s creative sector.

This dynamic initiative will now provide support for high-potential creative businesses across Leicester and Leicestershire, Derby and Derbyshire, Rutland, and Greater Lincolnshire. The programme aims to help these businesses accelerate their growth and create new jobs, while sourcing funding and preparing for investment.

The Create Growth programme combines the benefits of the LLEP’s wealth of business networks and the EMC’s comprehensive knowledge of the creative sector. These combined resources form the backbone of the programme.

Greenborough are Supporting Create Growth

Russell Copley of Greenborough Management Limited is delighted to be selected as a mentor for the Create Growth programme. Russell is a seasoned business specialist with over two decades of industry experience. He’s ready to leverage his expertise, to boost creative start-ups on their journey to success. Currently, Russell is working with six mentees, all creative businesses.

Russell commented, “I am thrilled to have been chosen as a mentor for the Create Growth programme. The creative industry is a wellspring of innovation and cultural richness. I’m excited to contribute towards helping these businesses thrive and make a lasting impact on the region’s economy.”

Russell offers solid practical guidance in a wide range of areas, from effective business strategy and planning, through to formulating strong marketing campaigns, and securing essential funding. Greenborough Management’s involvement reflects their dedication to empowering emerging creative businesses, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance and resources to succeed in this competitive area.

In the first cohort of Create Growth, Russell will mentor and guide 6 different business owners through their process of understanding and accelerating growth. As this is the first cohort to launch in the region, there’s a great opportunity to see the development in the region.

What Can Create Growth Offer?

The Create Growth Programme offers a multifaceted support system for aspiring businesses, elevating their status and helping to develop direction and confidence:

1. Personalised Mentorship and Coaching: Providing one-on-one guidance to nurture your creative business’s potential.
2. Access to Finance and Investment: Unlocking opportunities to secure the financial backing required for growth and innovation.
3. Strategic Business Development: Assisting in the formulation of robust business strategies and comprehensive plans for sustainable success.
4. Networking Opportunities: Connecting creative enterprises with like-minded peers and potential customers, fostering collaboration and growth.

Want to Get Involved?

The programme aims to support creative businesses operating in:

• Advertising and Marketing
• Architecture
• Crafts Design and Designer Fashion
• Film, TV, Video and Radio
• Photography
• IT, Gaming, Software and Computer Services
• Publishing
• Museums, Galleries and Libraries

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible, to avoid missing out on this free opportunity. You can learn more about the programme and see if you qualify here.

Supporting Creatives for a Rich and Brighter Future

Russell Copley added, “It’s essential that creative start-ups in the East Midlands are given a fighting chance to thrive and grow as small businesses contribute to the lifeblood and regeneration of the community. When creative businesses succeed, they not only contribute to economic growth; they elevate the quality of life within the community, making it a more interesting, enjoyable and culturally diverse place to live and work.”