North East

About the region

Prior to the launch of the Create Growth Programme, research showed that creative awareness and investment was low in the north of England. However, it also indicated potential growth sectors due to strategic interventions – in particular, design, fashion, film and television computer software, gaming and publishing.

Since launching in the region, the programme has supported 140 creative businesses across multiple cohorts and stages of growth.

In 2024/25, 100 businesses joined the programme across two tailored stages:

• Stage One supported earlier-stage businesses preparing for growth and investment.
• Stage Two worked with more established businesses approaching investment.

In 2025/26, a further 40 businesses have joined, benefiting from an evolved delivery model tailored to regional needs.

Businesses range from sole founders to established companies spanning film and TV, immersive, product design, advertising and digital content – all with the ambition and potential to scale.

It’s a real opportunity to change the landscape for creatives at this time.

Kristian Foreman, Lead Programme Manager, at Creative UK

Objectives and delivery

Stage one businesses received six months of workshops covering topics such as intellectual property, investment, strategic networking, and marketing. Alongside that, participants had one-to-one mentoring sessions including a diagnostic session at the end of the process to signpost opportunities and finalise their growth plan.

The stage two programme was nine months and included workshops covering similar topics but with a focus on investment rather than growth planning. Participants also got more dedicated mentorship; 20 hours over the period with a bespoke investment mentor tailored to the needs of the business.

A big part of the programme for both cohorts is the investor connect events, where participants can practise their pitch and tailor their offering to real investors – and maybe even land investment.

Kristian Foreman, Lead Programme Manager for Creative UK says: “The connect events include pitch and dines, pitch practice opportunities and networking events. These are a big opportunity for participants to refine their pitch or offering further, and meet people who might eventually be putting some money into their business.”

Impact and response

Following the programme’s first year in 2024/25, 60% of the 100 participating businesses applied for investment or pitched, and £3milloin of investment was received from businesses whilst on the programme.

Over 92% said their confidence as a business owner increased as a result of the programme.

Participants continue to report increased confidence in pitching, stronger commercial skills, and expanded networks – helping to build a more connected, investment-ready creative ecosystem across the North East.

Read more about the programme’s impact and view case studies on the North East Create Growth Programme website.