Creative businesses offered grants of up to £10k

Small and medium enterprises in the West Midlands are being offered grants of up to £10,000 as part of a new funding scheme for creative industries.

CreaTech Frontiers is part of a five-year programme between Birmingham City University (BCU), University of Birmingham, Coventry University, University of Warwick and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Projects must align with one of several areas, including gaming, live performance and visual arts.

"It's not just about developing new technologies, it's about creating opportunities for companies to think how they can have cultural and social impact for the region," said Prof Lamberto Coccioli, director of CreaTech Frontiers.

"There are a lot of companies and entrepreneurs already suggesting collaborations and wanting to apply. I'm delighted we're filling a gap that West Midlands businesses need."

The total funding pot is £250,000 and is part of a wider Arts and Humanities Research Council-funded £7.2m cluster programme.

It aims to help drive research and skills development in the region's creative industries.

Successful applicants would gain both financial support and access to facilities at one of the five institutions.

Plans for the year ahead include a second round of applications for larger grants later in 2025, as well as a pilot programme with the Birmingham Opera Company, and the establishment of an apprenticeship working group.

The scheme is also backed by the West Midlands Combined Authority.

"We've got a young, diverse region full of bold thinkers and creative minds who are really pushing the limits of what's possible with technology" said Richard Parker, the region's mayor.

"I want them to be able to take advantage of the amazing research and innovation coming out of our world class universities and turn their great ideas into global success stories."

Applications are open from Monday 2 June.

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