Performing Arts

AndAlso teaches improvisation both as performance and as a way of improving confidence, creativity, and communication skills. Doing both is why we are called AndAlso. We do classes in Brighton and online, and corporate training worldwide. Our methodology concentrates on the balance of individual expression and teamwork. We create supportive, experiential learning environments that are accessible to anyone, whether or not they have a performance background or training.

“This programme has focussed our minds on how to talk about improv as a ‘how’ rather than a ‘what’, focussing on the tangible benefits and marketable outcomes.”

Jules Munns, Director

Advertising & Marketing

New Icon is revolutionising the athlete sponsorship landscape by democratising access to sponsorship opportunities for athletes and brands alike. Our innovative platform eliminates traditional agency gatekeeping, allowing direct, values-based connections between athletes and sponsors. With a focus on transparency, data-driven insights, and AI-powered campaign creation, we are poised to disrupt a $57 billion global sports sponsorship industry.

“We joined the Create South East Programme to better understand how to position ourselves to investors and access expert advice on areas such as finance and IP. It was important to us to join a cohort to gain insights into how others have found the process of expansion and approaching investment.”

Linzi Sortain, Founder

Music

Brighthelmstone presents the very best in Americana and Roots from around the world. It was founded in Brighton by James and Amy Walker in 2011. Brighthelmstone also project manages festivals such as Americana Music Association UK week and stage manages at The Great Escape.

“The dedicated help on specific areas that we find challenging within our business, such as with finance and accounting, has been really helpful to us. We’ve also had great mentors that have helped us to think more strategically about the business and where we want to take it.”

Amy Walker, Co-Director

Professional Services

Hatch Ideas is a consultancy and training firm dedicated to helping individuals and organisations worldwide develop businesses and initiatives for cultural change and social impact. We support innovators and pioneers across a wide range of sectors and specialise in supporting those in the Creative and Cultural Industries. We offer tailored coaching services, training workshops and development programmes to help build and grow unique projects, businesses and initiatives.

” The programme has given us the confidence to scale our business and has acted as a validating experience for Hatch Ideas. We now feel confident in our business plan and validated in our future path. The sky’s the limit!”

Yemisi Mokuolu, CEO

Design & Education

MakeHub is an EdTech platform transforming Design & Technology (DT) education in UK primary schools. It provides high-quality digital resources that support teachers in delivering engaging, curriculum-aligned lessons, helping students develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and technical knowledge. By bridging the gap between traditional DT teaching and industry-relevant skills, MakeHub empowers the next generation of designers and makers, ensuring they are equipped for the future.

“The programme provided opportunities to refine our pitch, receive critical feedback from industry experts, and develop a clear roadmap for growth.”

Kris Pointer, Director

Digital Media

ManufacturingTV is a specialist media company that has developed a powerful reputation for producing high quality video content for and about the manufacturing sector: documentaries, panel discussions, news reports, company profiles, case studies and webinars. We also provide event coverage and promotion.

“We wanted someone from outside our business to help us understand how to grow from a start-up into a multi-divisional business that delivers value to an increasingly wide client base.”

Nick Peters, Editorial Director

Music & Games

 Founded in 2022 and based in Worthing, UK, Record Games is a forward-thinking game development and AI studio on a mission to redefine music gaming for a new generation. At the core of our vision is Starstruck Galaxy, our free-to-play social music game that immerses players in the fantasy of becoming celebrated musicians.

“Our time on the Create South East programme has given us clarity, confidence, and a stronger foundation for growth.”

Robert Edgington, CEO

Publishing & Marketing

Sussex Local is a monthly, quality, through-the-door community magazine delivered directly into over 57,000 homes and businesses in West Sussex. Supported by a county-wide website featuring local news, events from across the county and a digital business directory.

“We have developed a clearer growth pathway and now understand how to prioritise our plans more logically. We have a greater understanding of investment and the different forms it can take.”

Kris Nutbeem, Director

Film, TV & Media

Award-winning writer, producer and director, delivering high-impact commercials, campaign films, branded web content, live event coverage and animation. The Filmworkers have written and directed films for Queen Elizabeth Prize for Engineering, Sotheby’s, Tesco, The National Lottery, UKTI, British Business Bank, Glyndebourne Opera House, The Grange Festival, Leon Restaurants, Haymarket Publishing, The Royal Navy, Intesa San Paolo, Grant Thornton, Trinity Mirror Solutions, London & Partners, Tech London Advocates, and Passion Capital.

“I was seeking to build the business through support, mentorship and networking opportunities – and the programme delivered just that.”

Dominic Santana, Director

Art & Design

 The Modern Calligraphy Co are the leading lettering artists in the UK and have pioneered this dynamic and expressive art form, applying our talents on behalf of some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands.

“As a small business owner, I recognized the value of being part of a programme that encourages collaboration, learning, and professional development. ”

Jill Hembling, Managing Director