This is a programme for creative businesses who want to become investment ready. We will work with you over a period of 9 months, after which you will have your business investment pitch ready and we will introduce you to investors locally and nationally.

You can download programme information HERE or read on…

Every creative company is unique so we have devised an application process that enables us to get to know more about you and tailor our offer and recommendations to suit your needs.

Companies can apply at any time by submitting an Expression of Interest form. Eligible companies should a) be based in the Essex, Kent or Sussex, b) have a registered company with creativity at its heart.

If you are eligible we will invite you to meet a member of the team so that we can find out more about your business, and you can ask more questions about the programme.

We break down the programme into four stages:

1. Diagnostic: You meet with a panel of experts and investors to review your business model and initial investment proposition. All parties can then reflect on whether this programme is right for you.

If you decide to proceed you will join a cohort of companies similar to yours. If you decide not to proceed, we will have access to your diagnostic and we will signpost you to alternative business resources within the region.

2. Define: Working with a dedicated mentor, during this phase you will clarify your business growth plans and define the investment goals needed to support those plans. You will be part of a cohort of 15 similar businesses and attend workshops tackling foundation business skills that have been identified for your cohort via the diagnostic.
3. Craft: Alongside your mentor you will design an investment strategy and shape its presentation, including pitching practice and presentation design support. Cohort sessions will tackle discipline or sector specific challenges.
4. Connect: We will facilitate ‘soft’ introductions to creative industry investors, including a pitch presentation showcase. Participants will have access to support from the national Create Growth Programme and networks, including pitch events, investor networking and investment incentives (more details tba).

This programme of activity has been designed to enable companies to access investment and has been modelled on Creative UK’s successful Evolve programme, where 70% of participants achieve investment after taking part. More information about Evolve is available here.

We anticipate that you would need to commit to around 2 days per month. You will get out of it what you put in, and we will support you every step of the way. We understand how tough it is being a business owner and that your time is precious so we will ensure that your time is used carefully.

This programme is free to the business as the activity has been funded by Create South East through the Create Growth Programme. The programme has a financial value of approximately £10k.

• I’m interested in joining the programme
• I’ve read the FAQs
• Complete an Expression Of Interest form
• Feel free to ask us any additional questions by getting in touch

Create South East is part of a wider Department of Culture, Media and Sport initiative which you can read more about here.