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Are you an artist or creative practitioner living in South Tyneside? Do you dream of turning your passion into a thriving business? This autumn, our dynamic Free Business Start-Up Programme is designed specifically for individuals like you, working across a diverse range of creative practices including visual arts, crafts, digital arts, music, performing arts, writing, dance, and radio.

Unlock a World of Opportunities

Our comprehensive programme offers:

• One-to-One Mentoring: Personalised guidance from experienced mentors to help you navigate the complexities of starting and growing your business.
• Business Start-Up Workshops: Interactive sessions covering crucial topics such as vision and goal setting, market development, business modelling, and much more.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with members of the cultural partnership and fellow creatives, fostering collaborations and expanding your professional network.
• Signposting to Additional Support: Access a wealth of resources and opportunities within the wider business support community.
• Commissioning Opportunities: Gain exposure and commission work that aligns with your creative vision.
• Bursaries: Trial trade and establish relationships with customers through financial support.

 Engage, Learn, and Thrive

Our workshops are designed to immerse you in an entrepreneurial ‘can do’ atmosphere, emphasising practical learning through rapid prototyping, trial-trading, and extensive networking. Topics will evolve to meet your needs but are likely to include:

• Commercialise Your Creativity: Generating income from your art
• Making the Most of Opportunities: Building business through networking
• Business Planning for Creatives
• Developing Your Entrepreneurial Capacities
• The Art and Craft of Selling and Marketing
• Communication, Branding, and Sales
• Costing and Pricing Your Work
• Keeping it Legal and Protecting Your Creativity
• Financial Forecasting
• Finding Funding

 A Collaborative Learning Environment

These workshops are more than just instructional sessions; they are vibrant forums for peer exchange. You will share experiences, validate your ambitions, and support each other through the challenges of enterprise development. Using diagnostic tools and creative business models like storyboarding, metaphor, and mind mapping, we ensure a comfortable and engaging learning process.

 Sustained Support through Mentorship

Our mentorship programme is a cornerstone of your journey. With mentors who have the skills, experience, and connections you need, you’ll receive continuous support to keep up momentum and achieve long-term sustainability. Tap into your mentors’ networks, expand your own, and build a robust foundation for your business.

 Led by Experts in Creative Enterprise

Create North, one of the North East’s most established companies, leads this programme. With deep insights into the challenges faced by cultural, creative, and heritage practitioners, Create North has supported around 1,000 creative individuals and organisations over the past three years. Their expertise ensures you receive the best possible support as you embark on your entrepreneurial journey.

Join Us This Autumn

This programme is completely free to attend! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to turn your creative passion into a successful business. Join our Business Start-Up Programme this autumn and be part of a vibrant community of creatives driving innovation and growth in South Tyneside.

Ready to take the next step? Apply now and transform your creative dreams into reality!

Register your interest now and one of the Create North team will be in touch to discuss next steps.