The north’s transition from its once-dominant manufacturing economy has allowed for a recent boom in the number of start-up firms within creative industries, according to a regional business advisory service.
The creative industries sector is one of the northwest’s fastest growing sectors, the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NRDA) claims.
Firms trading in arts and crafts, animation and cinematography are starting up across the region at a remarkable rate, the NRDA said, and the trend reflects the bigger picture across the UK.
“We’ve already seen a massive shift from traditional manufacturing into more service-based industries over recent years,” said Vivienne Upcott-Gill, founder and manager of the NRDA.
The service sector is beginning to mature, she said, and now the region is seeing growth in other areas, particularly within creative industries.
She pointed out that on the BBC series ‘Dragons Den’, over 50% of the investments made were for firms in creative industries, highlighting the sector’s growth nationwide.
“Growth in the creative sector is a clear indicator of the region’s rich cultural heritage combining with its enterprising businesses, and it is very encouraging to see new companies drawing on this to generate new business and employment opportunities across the northwest,” Upcott-Gill said.
To help foment the growth, Upcott-Gill announced the NRDA’s equity advisory service, TEChINVEST will help young start-ups and those firms looking to grow by providing funding from a pool of over £200 million available through seed, venture capital and public sector funds.
Those seeking information on how to receive funding may visit service’s web site at www.techinvest.org.
