Creative Exchange
40 Brighton artists supported to raise their game
The project was run by Creative Development in partnership with the Brighton and Hove Business Forum with funding from Business Link. It was designed to animate and support businesses. 40 were selected to benefit from this refreshing approach which delivered real help from industry experts. Erika Knight, fashion design consultant, described this creative exchange as “fantastic and proactive”.
Over 90 businesses applied so more than half of them could not be included at this stage. Soozie Campbell, city centre manager, with the Business Forum, said, “We plan to go out to private sponsors to see if we can raise funding to continue to support these businesses. We have already put out some feelers and we've had some very positive feedback so far. There is a lot of goodwill out there and a recognition that the creative sector is key to the success of our city.”
Mike Wenham from Business Link added, “We have created a monster here. The response to this programme has been overwhelming and we cannot now turn our backs on this key sector having opened the floodgates.”
Diana Hudson from Creative Development led the pilot and has instigated on many similar projects throughout the UK . “We have a strong team of specialists who really understand the needs of the creative sector and can deliver on a wide range of topics,” said Diana. “We have yet to be stumped by a business request. If we don't already have the expertise we always know where to find it.”
Libby Davy from Egg House said, “Having attended several sessions for creative industries in Brighton recently, Creative Development's stood out. I felt informed, inspired and ready to take Egg House Art to the next level. Thank you to all involved. No doubt with help like this, Brighton is the place to watch in the years ahead. Long may this community flourish and prosper co-operatively!" Rag and Bone added, “It was great speaking to you about our project.”, describing the experience as “uplifting and inspiring”.
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