Creative businesses across Greater Lincolnshire have received a significant opportunity for growth, with the launch of new funding through the Create Growth Programme, delivered by Innovate UK in partnership with the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS).
Up to £8 million is being made available to help high-growth potential creative businesses scale their operations, access finance, and explore innovation. The Barbican Creative Hub welcomes this announcement as a timely and much-needed investment in the region’s creative industries.
About the Programme
The Create Growth Programme – Competition 4 is open to creative businesses located in one of 12 designated regions across the UK, including Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Greater Lincolnshire.
The programme includes two strands of funding:
Strand 1: Small Projects
- For projects costing between £20,000 and £50,000
- 100 percent funded (no match funding required)
- Aimed at smaller-scale, early-stage innovation activity
Strand 2: Large Projects
- For projects with total eligible costs between £50,000 and £200,000
- Match funding required
- Suitable for more ambitious business growth and research activity
Applicants may only apply to one strand. Applications cannot be transferred between strands after submission.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the programme, your business must:
- Be a UK-registered micro, small or medium-sized enterprise
- Be based in, or actively operate within, an appointed Create Growth Programme region
- Be part of the creative industries, such as design, film, media, digital, architecture, fashion, or gaming
- Demonstrate a clear growth opportunity and outline how innovation will support that growth
- Show how you have engaged with, or plan to engage with, the regional support provided by the Create Growth Programme
Why This Matters
The UK’s creative industries contribute over £100 billion to the economy. This funding aims to unlock further potential within the sector by giving businesses the resources and support they need to grow.
At the Barbican Creative Hub, we believe that tailored support for creative businesses is vital. This announcement not only brings new financial backing to the region but also highlights the value of long-term investment in the creative economy.
Key Dates
- Competition opens: Monday 31 March 2025
- Competition closes: Thursday 29 May 2025 at 11:00am
Applications must be submitted via the official Innovate UK portal. For full details and how to apply, our opportunities page.