Supporting creative enterprises

Creative enterprise
Felted jewellery made by young carers group for pop-up shop project
Pop-up creatives
Felted art made by young carers group for pop-up shop project
Women in business
Working with a women's group to support them in setting up their own enterprise
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Enterprise Development and mentoring

We provide mentoring, training and creative development to assist individuals who aspire to turn their creative talents into a viable career.

Making Futures works in particular with people who face barriers to traditional employment, for example, due to illness, disability, caring responsibilities.

Background

Our founder Debbie says:

‘There are many reasons why working a traditional ‘9 to 5’ is not ideal for everyone. As someone with a disability who set up her first enterprises after experiencing a life-changing illness, I can speak firsthand to the challenges of the ‘traditional’ employment model and how it isn’t the only route to a productive and fulfilling career.’

Here at Making Futures we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to develop their ideas and talents and reach their personal potential.

Creative enterprises are ideally suited to flexible working. They can fit around variable and long-term health conditions, additional needs and the responsibilities of carers. Research has shown that working in a creative environment enhances wellbeing. Creative activity builds self-esteem and confidence. It is an excellent form of therapeutic self-expression. The creative industries are also a significant contributor to the economy, making them a valuable and potentially very successful career choice.

However, venturing into self-employment can be scary. Do I have the right skills? How can I run a business? How do I price my goods or services? Do I need to register for tax and prepare accounts? These are just a few of the questions that face any new business but can be particularly daunting for anyone facing additional challenges.

Making Futures works with individuals to address these challenges, giving them the confidence and skills to take their first steps into business. Support may take the form of business mentoring, signposting, helping new businesses find access to studio space and facilities, use of equipment. Creative development and training is also available.

The ethos of Making Futures is to help people to fulfil their creative potential – ‘9 to 5’ is not the only option!

For more information on our tailored workshops and programmes, please email Debbie at info@makingfutures.org