Local creative economy set to flourish in Bendigo

Emporium Creative Hub launches Creative Industries Business Incubator program.

Local creatives looking to develop their enterprises now have access to an innovative business incubation program developed by Emporium Creative Hub in Bendigo. Formerly known as The Studio, Emporium Creative Hub is a coworking initiative from Creative Victoria, delivered by ACMI.

The first of its kind in the region, the incubator is tailored specifically for creative enterprises.

The 12-week incubator will be led by local business leader Leah Sertori and facilitated by a team of established local creative entrepreneurs. Designed for emerging creators in the Bendigo region, the program includes online learning, live webinars and weekly small group sessions all designed to teach people how they can grow from sole trader to small business.

Emporium has worked with local firm Sertori Consulting to develop the program. Comprised of workshops and mentoring sessions, the program encourages participants to think differently about their business with an emphasis on collaboration between creatives. Together, this cohort of entrepreneurs will be able to leverage their range of experience and talent to help grow each other’s ventures, while learning from established business owners in creative industries across Victoria.

The 12-week incubator is open to individuals (not teams) and costs $500. Acceptance to the program is based on an online application.

Applications open Monday 7 September and close Friday 25 September. The Creative Industries Business Incubator program starts Monday 5 October.

For information and to apply, visit emporiumcreativehub.com.au

Quotes:

“This year has brought many challenges, but it has also shown that our local creative community is dynamic and resilient. As we plan the roadmap out of restrictions, this Business Incubator program comes at an ideal time. It will help creative entrepreneurs plan for a future where they turn their creative ideas into Bendigo’s next business success stories."
Member for Bendigo West Maree Edwards

“At this time, more than ever, it is vital we support creative practitioners and businesses to develop sustainable and successful models. ACMI established Australia’s first museum-based coworking space for the creative industries in 2016. We’re excited to share our knowledge and experience, working with Creative Victoria to establish Emporium Creative Hub and launch the Creative Industries Business Incubator.”
ACMI Director & CEO Katrina Sedgwick OAM

“We are really excited to be offering this program, especially at a time when so many creative businesses are doing it tough. The creative industries are key to our regional economy surviving and thriving. They help other businesses and organisations emotively engage customers, tell their story and reach new audiences.”
Emporium Manager David Hughes

“The first time anyone starts a new business it’s both exhilarating and frustrating. There are steps in the process that can be taught, that are easy to learn and implement and proven to speed up development.”
Creative Industries Business Incubator program leader Leah Sertori