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23 Oct 2025
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23 Oct 2025
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Creative businesses in Torbay and Devon are being invited to apply for a free business support programme aimed at helping them grow and attract investment.
The Create Growth Programme, funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, offers tailored workshops, one-to-one mentoring, and opportunities to connect with investors.
Delivered by Creative UK, the scheme is run in partnership with Torbay Council, Devon County Council, Exeter City Council, West of England Combined Authority, the universities of Exeter and Plymouth, Plymouth Culture and the Real Ideas Organisation.
The programme is open to businesses working in a range of creative industries, including advertising, architecture, crafts, design, film, TV, radio, photography, IT and gaming, publishing, museums, galleries, music, performing and visual arts, or those that serve the sector.
The first round of the programme ran from January 2024 to March 2025. During that time, 54 creative businesses across Devon reported a combined increase in turnover of more than £11.6m. They also created 57 new jobs and secured over £840,000 in grant funding. Thirteen of those businesses were based in Torbay.
Virtual drop-in sessions are being held to help businesses find out more. Details can be found on the Creative UK website.
Councillor Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth at Torbay Council, said: “It’s fantastic news that the Create Growth Programme is back. Whether you are just starting out with a creative business or are looking to take the next step forwards, the programme is offering specialist advice, mentoring and resources to help Torbay businesses thrive.
“I encourage all Torbay creative businesses to get involved and find out how they could benefit from this free support.”
Caroline Norbury OBE, CEO of Creative UK, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the Devon Create Growth Programme back for a second year.
“The first round proved to be a crucial launchpad for some of the region’s most forward-thinking creative businesses. This next phase will build on that momentum, equipping even more creative companies with the tools and confidence they need to secure investment and scale.”
Applications are open until 5pm on Monday 26 May. The programme will support 40 creative businesses across Devon until March 2026.
For more information and to apply, visit: Devon Create Growth Programme – Creative UK
Businesses in Torbay who took part in the first programme include:
You can find out more about the programme's alumni at: Devon Create Growth Programme Alumni – Creative UK
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