Inspiring the next generation of creative entrepreneurs

Published Friday, 12th November 2021

Hartlepool Borough Council’s Economic Growth Team hosted events for students aimed at inspiring the young creative entrepreneurs of the future as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week.

Students from Hartlepool College of Further Education gathered at The BIS in Whitby Street on Wednesday 10th and Thursday 11th November to explore their opportunities at how they can develop a self-employed career in the creative sector.  

All students began their event with a guided tour of The BIS explaining how they could use the Grade II listed building as a future workplace as it is now a 28-unit centre for business start-ups in the creative industries in both the commercial and community arts sectors.

On Wednesday, the Level 4 Creative Enterprise students had the opportunity to learn all about Intellectual Property with Paul Swalwell from Business & IP Centre Tees Valley and gained an insight into the finance side of self-employment with Nic Calvert from Enterprise Made Simple.

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The followed day saw the Level 2 Art and Design students delve into the world of what it takes to build up your own brand with Dan McGovern Digital Marketing and Tom Cook followed by a session looking at what support is available to young creative entrepreneurs wanting to build up their own business with The Prince’s Trust through its Enterprise Programme.

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Caron Auckland, Hartlepool Borough Council’s Enterprise Manager, said: “I am delighted as a Council we could support this year’s Global Entrepreneurship Week and showcase what is on offer for the young creatives of our town, especially at The BIS.

“Events like the ones that took place this week are all about inspiring the younger generation of our town and encouraging them to aim high and with more people looking at going into self-employment it’s important they are aware of the support is available to them locally.

“I would like to thank everyone who gave up their time to support this event and also the students for getting involved in the sessions with such enthusiasm.”

Fran Ruthven representing The Prince’s Trust said: “We’re seeing a rise in the North East of England in self-employment, especially after the last 18 months, so opportunities like these events are a brilliant way we can work and encourage young people to consider looking at building up a career for themselves. It’s important for any young person to know there is support and programmes in place such as The Prince’s Trust’s Enterprise Programme to help them on their journey.”

Formerly the General Post Office Building, The BIS has been beautifully restored, enlarged and refurbished and is now open to both new and existing businesses in the creative sector, offering a range of facilities, including:

  • 28 units of various sizes – a mix of studios, workshops and office space.
  • Two fully-equipped meeting/conference rooms, which are also available for hire.
  • High-speed internet connectivity and WIFI.
  • A range of flexible easy in-easy out terms.

Further information is available by telephoning 01429 363150 or by emailing bis@hartlepool.gov.uk or visit www.investinhartlepool.co.uk/locations/the-bis/