Creative Business Skills Academy Launches in York on 5th May 2023

On Tuesday, 5th May, a new initiative called the Creative Business Skills Academy will launch at the Reignite XIV event in York. This exciting project is a collaboration between Aesthetica and York St John University, aimed at helping creative entrepreneurs turn their ideas into successful businesses. The event will be opened by Mayor David Skaith and will highlight the stories of the Academy's first group of learners.

What Is the Creative Business Skills Academy?

The Creative Business Skills Academy is a 12-week programme designed for budding entrepreneurs in various creative fields, including film, design, ceramics, marketing, theatre, and fashion. The aim is to provide these individuals with the essential tools and connections they need to grow their businesses effectively. This initiative is particularly important as it seeks to address the imbalance in employment opportunities within the UK's creative sector, where 62% of jobs are located in London and the South East. In contrast, York and North Yorkshire account for only 3% of creative industries employment.

Addressing the Disparity

The Academy is a direct response to the challenges faced by aspiring creatives in the region. Many talented individuals struggle to find the right support and networks to help them succeed. The Creative Business Skills Academy aims to change this by:

• Providing strategic tools to help entrepreneurs scale their businesses.

• Creating a supportive network of like-minded individuals.

• Encouraging collaboration between education and industry.

As Cherie Federico, Director of Aesthetica, puts it: “The challenge is not talent, it is access to the right support, networks and opportunities to scale.”

The Launch Event: Reignite XIV

Reignite XIV will take place from 6-9pm on Tuesday 5th May. This gathering is a significant event for industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs. Mayor David Skaith will set the tone for the evening by sharing his vision for the creative industries as a key driver of regional identity and economic growth. The event will also showcase the tangible impact of the Academy, allowing attendees to hear first-hand accounts from the inaugural cohort of learners.

Building a Creative Ecosystem

The Creative Business Skills Academy is not just about individual success; it aims to create a thriving ecosystem for creative businesses in the region. Professor Brendan Paddison, Dean of York Business School at York St John University, emphasises the importance of collaboration in this venture. He states, “The Creative Business Skills Academy demonstrates what can be achieved when education and industry work together with a shared purpose.” By nurturing a diverse group of creative entrepreneurs, the Academy hopes to contribute to the regional economy and enhance the UK's standing as a global leader in the creative sector.

Why This Matters

The creative industries are a vital part of the UK economy, contributing over £145 billion and employing 2.4 million people. However, opportunities are not evenly distributed across the country. The launch of the Creative Business Skills Academy in York represents a significant step towards rectifying this imbalance. By supporting local talent, the Academy aims to unlock the potential that already exists in the region.

How to Get Involved

Individuals interested in the creative industries or those wanting to support the initiative can attend Reignite XIV. Tickets can be secured through the Eventbrite page. This is not just an opportunity to learn about the Academy but also to network with industry leaders and fellow creatives.

The event is proudly supported by Aesthetica, York BID, and the Business School at York St John University, with vital funding from Mayor David Skaith and the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority. This collective effort showcases the commitment to fostering a vibrant creative sector in York and beyond.

A Look Ahead

The Creative Business Skills Academy is a promising initiative that aims to bridge the gap between creative talent and commercial success in York. By equipping entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and connections, the Academy hopes to create a sustainable future for the creative industries in the region. As the Academy welcomes its first cohort, the excitement around the potential for growth and innovation in York’s creative economy continues to build.