The Creative Industries Network Programme 2014-2017
Published on 03 July 2018
United Kingdom
This is the good practice's implementation level. It can be national, regional or local.
About this good practice
A new way to help develop the Creative Industries in the Highlands and Islands was formed to overcome peripherality.
Clusters were set up - each with a manager - in the areas of : 1) screen and broadcast (covering all forms of screen including games), 2) music, 3) crafts, fashion and textiles, and 4) writing/publishing.
These clusters provided advice and support in areas of digital skills, business planning and commercial partnerships, not just in the Creatives Industries but also in sectors including tourism, and heritage.
A cluster model was devised that was flexible, highly entrepreneurial and designed to create scale through collaboration for the many micro and SME businesses in the Creative Sector. This took the form of four clusters providing year round activity with a multifaceted industry event (XpoNorth) held every Summer. The clusters provided the opportunity for the industry to articulate what it wanted from the public sector, and also to engage in the delivery of that support.
Within Creative Industries itself, the support focused on scaling up businesses, supporting the entry into new markets, and supporting innovation around business models and products/services.
Resources needed
HIE £1.065,600
ERDF £950,400
Creative Scotland £360,000
ERDF £950,400
Creative Scotland £360,000
Evidence of success
The outputs delivered:
• 200 businesses facilitated through provision of advice and training;
• 300 jobs created;
• Increase in GVA totalling £9m;
• 10 newsletters;
• 1 major international showcase event;
• 3 additional showcase events;
• 6 trade events attended;
• 20 local events;
• 200 businesses facilitated through provision of advice and training;
• 300 jobs created;
• Increase in GVA totalling £9m;
• 10 newsletters;
• 1 major international showcase event;
• 3 additional showcase events;
• 6 trade events attended;
• 20 local events;
Potential for learning or transfer
The nature of the Creative Industries, especially across remote and rural geographies, often makes it challenging for regional development agencies to tailor appropriate support. The Cluster model allowed for good engagement and interaction across the range of businesses, encouraging collaboration and growth.
Clusters can work with micro businesses/sole traders covering a large geography, even covered more than one island.
Clusters can work with micro businesses/sole traders covering a large geography, even covered more than one island.
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Organisation
Highlands and Islands Enterprise
United Kingdom
Highlands and Islands
Contact