Free business support is once again available for creative businesses in Torbay, designed to address the challenges facing investment in the creative industries and support founders to develop their creative business. Selected businesses will gain access to a programme of activity including tailored workshops, one-to-one mentor support and opportunities to connect with investors.
Funded by the Department for Culture, Media, and Sport, the Devon Create Growth Programme is being delivered by Creative UK, in partnership with Torbay Council, West of England Combined Authority, Devon County Council, Exeter City Council, Exeter University, University of Plymouth, Plymouth Culture and Real Ideas Organisation.
Torbay Council and Creative UK are inviting businesses working in the Creative Industries to apply. This includes businesses in the sub sectors of advertising and marketing; architecture; crafts; design and designer fashion; film, TV, video, radio and photography; IT, software, and computer services (including gaming); publishing; museums, galleries, and libraries; music, performing and visual arts; or those who serve the creative sector.
The first iteration of the programme, which ran from January 2024 to March 2025, saw 54 creative businesses across Devon increase their turnover by a total of £11,601,139 since being on the programme, as well as creating 57 staff positions, and receiving £841,717 of grant investment. 13 (24%) of these businesses are based in Torbay.
The Devon Create Growth Programme team is holding virtual drop-in sessions to answer questions businesses may have. The timings for these sessions will be available at Drop in sessions across the South West – Creative UK
Councillor Chris Lewis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Place Development and Economic Growth at Torbay Council, said:
“It’s fantastic news that the Create Growth Programme is back. Whether you are just starting out with a creative business or are looking to take the next step forwards, the programme is offering specialist advice, mentoring and resources to help Torbay businesses thrive.
“I encourage all Torbay creative businesses to get involved and find out how they could benefit from this free support.”
Caroline Norbury OBE, CEO of Creative UK, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome the Devon Create Growth Programme back for a second year.
“The first round proved to be a crucial launchpad for some of the region’s most forward-thinking creative businesses. This next phase will build on that momentum, equipping even more creative companies with the tools and confidence they need to secure investment and scale.
Applications are now open until 5pm on Monday 26 May for Torbay businesses to apply for the programme. The programme will support 40 creative businesses across Devon until March 2026.
For more information and to apply, visit Devon Create Growth Programme – Creative UK
Torbay businesses who successfully completed the first Create Growth Programme include:
Artizan Gallery
Big Wave Marketing Torquay
Devon Made
Filament Works
Gutxi Torquay
Mincycled
Nautoguide Brixham
Print2Wall
Sound Communities Paignton
Szabotage Paignton
The Creatives Universe
Unleashed Theatre Company
Ubuntu Educational & Mentoring Services CIC
Find out more about the Create Growth Programme alumni by visiting Devon Create Growth Programme Alumni – Creative UK
You can join us on our social media pages, follow us on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter) and Threads where you can keep up to date with whats going on in South Devon.
Got a news story, blog or press release that you’d like to share or want to advertise with us? Get in touch via email admin@wearesouthdevon.com
