Government-backed programme returns to drive investment into creative sector
A specialist programme designed to grow West Yorkshire’s creative industries and the regional economy is back for a second year after helping around 40 businesses secure over £1m of investment.
The region’s “Create Growth” programme – funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport – is now open to applications from creative businesses which are ready to scale-up, attract investment and break into new markets through tailored support, mentoring and high-profile networking opportunities.
In the inaugural year of the programme, 78 per cent of the 41 businesses that took part expanded their teams, 61 per cent developed or launched new products, and 66 per cent reported a growth in turnover, securing a combined total of £1.2m in investment from private sector investors and Innovate UK, the country’s innovation agency.
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said: “Ensuring our creative sector thrives, creates more jobs and attracts inward investment will turbocharge economic growth and help us to build a stronger, brighter West Yorkshire.
“This innovative programme has given creative businesses in West Yorkshire the tools and support they need to grow.
“I’m thrilled that more local businesses will have the opportunity to fulfil their potential as we open applications for a second year.”
Caroline Norbury, CEO of Creative UK, said: “It’s positive to see the Create Growth Programme return to West Yorkshire for another year.
“Its first iteration, delivered by Creative UK and West Yorkshire Combined Authority, was a vital springboard for some of the most innovative creative businesses from the region, who were able to gain exposure to a broad range of investors at our regional and national investment summits earlier this year.
“This second run of the West Yorkshire Create Growth Programme promises to continue the job of providing investment readiness support to businesses who will help drive forward the creative industries which, in 2024, made up 9.8 per cent of all UK businesses and which have been identified by UK Government as a key growth sector.”
The Create Growth programme is delivered in partnership with Creative UK and West Yorkshire Combined Authority as part of Mayor Brabin’s You Can Make It Here campaign – a £2.3m support package designed to grow the region’s creative industries and create opportunities for talent to thrive.
