Devon

About the region

From rugged moorland to golden beaches, market towns to bustling cities, Devon is known for its wonderfully varied landscapes and this diversity is reflected in the programme cohort.

The team are working with firms utilising videography and animation technologies in sectors such as sport and marketing, as well as interior designers, live arts, marketing companies and architecture firms. They’re also helping CreaTech companies develop apps for clients including the Royal Marines and festivals.

The Devon team has welcomed the Create Growth Programme to boost creative industries in the county. Working alongside partners such as the University of Exeter and the University of Plymouth, the team are committed to delivering a programme that champions creative businesses and equips them with the tools for success. Now, the team are excited to unlock opportunities for creative businesses and craft a lasting legacy.

Sam Spake, Programme Manager at Creative UK, says, “It can sometimes be difficult to get investors to come down to the South West because there’s a perception that it’s miles away. The team are excited to close that perceptual divide with the programme.”

Collaborations with people and the introductions to new opportunities are really powerful.

Sam Spake, Programme Manager at Creative UK

Objectives and delivery

Mentoring is a big feature of the programme and the team are excited to link founders to people with the specialist expertise they require. Alongside that, they’re building a range of workshops around topics like business health, intellectual property and the opportunities investment can unlock. There will also be upskilling workshops.

Sam says, “We’re particularly interested in how technology can be combined with business operations. People in creative industries are getting that pinch from both ends; AI looming in terms of enhancing or providing some competition, combined with funding changes with the EU funding stopping different pots of money.”

As Devon is a large and remote part of the UK, the team are committed to developing peer networks that enable founders to make useful collaborative partnerships. They’re also excited to raise awareness with investors about the value of the creative industries in Devon.

Impact and response

Having committed delivery partners like the University of Exeter and the University of Plymouth is having an early impact on the programme. These partnerships are already enabling the cohort to access world-class talent, expertise and facilities.

Both universities are running their own programmes in conjunction with the Create Growth Programme, creating a “doubling up of activity” that’s helping founders develop their products and services in a safe environment.

Sam says, “A lot of creatives are accidental leaders; they started doing what they love, found themselves doing quite well and ended up in the position of CEO or director without necessarily understanding the full scope of how to scale a business.”

The team are already mentoring founders on subjects like pitching and the language of business. Plus, being on the programme is also enabling participants to form relationships with creatives in Devon and further afield.

Sam says: “Getting to know other regions and programme managers and hearing about their cohorts is helpful.”