NATIONAL: Creatives have received a $17 million shot in the arm with the opening of a centre aimed at assisting small and medium businesses.
Innovation minister Senator Kim Carr and arts minister Peter Garrett have unveiled the first of six Creative Industries Innovation Centres at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS).
While other centres will focus on sectors such as clean-energy, mining and remote enterprises, the $17 million UTS site will offer creative businesses with a range of professional services. Eligible firms will have access to a free business review with funding of up to $20,000 to implement changes identified.
The centre aims to provide up to 300 business reviews, 50 incubation services and assist 2000 businesses through workshops, seminars and networking opportunities each year. Although based at UTS' Sydney city campus, services will extend across Australia through consortium partners, a national business adviser network and other Enterprise Connect centres.
Senator Carr said the centre will help small to medium enterprises to successfully run and grow their business. He has encouraged them to contact Enterprise Connect to see how they can benefit from the program.
"Most cannot afford to pay for external advice to help improve how their business operates, particularly in these financial times."
Industries covered by the centre include design, publishing, writing, architecture, visual arts, television, radio, advertising, performing arts, music and interactive entertainment.