
Supporting Creativity and Cultural Growth in the North East
Date published:
On Friday the 7th of February, the Chamber hosted a virtual business briefing in collaboration with Arts Council England, to cover funding opportunities in the creative sector.
Arts Council England is the national development agency for creativity and culture. By 2030, they aim for England to become a country in which creativity is valued and given the chance to flourish, and where everybody has the access to a wide range of high-quality cultural experiences. One of their aims is to contribute to the creation of cultural communities where towns and cities thrive through a collaborative approach to culture.
To achieve this, they developed four Investment Principles: ambition and quality, dynamism, environmental responsibility and inclusivity and relevance. These investments are intended to support the development of well-run, future-facing organisations and individual creative practice.
In every one of the Priority Places, Arts Council England will work with local stakeholders to set bespoke objectives and track the impact of their investment. These Priority Places include South Tyneside, County Durham, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Stockton, Darlington and Redcar in the North East.
The creative sector plays a crucial role in the North East, acting as a driver for economic growth, job creation, and cultural enrichment. The region has a rich artistic heritage and is home to a vibrant network of artists, performers, writers, and cultural institutions that contribute to its identity and social cohesion. By investing in creative industries, the North East can attract tourism, stimulate local businesses, and enhance community engagement through cultural initiatives.
Moreover, the creative sector fosters innovation and collaboration across industries, supporting skills development and educational opportunities for young people. As the region continues to evolve, ensuring strong cultural infrastructure and accessible creative spaces will be vital in sustaining its economic resilience and making it an attractive place to live, work, and visit. Initiatives by Arts Council England will be instrumental in achieving these goals, reinforcing the North East’s position as a thriving hub of creativity and culture.
The Arts Council England is also providing various opportunities in funding, data, sponsorship, procurement, governance and engagement.
To find out more please visit: Investment Principles | Arts Council England