Warwick Bar hosts funding seminar for creative businesses

Warwick Bar, the canalside regeneration project in Digbeth, is holding an event for cash-strapped creatives and small-medium enterprises seeking funding for business growth.

The scheme, which comprises 80,000 sq ft of business space, and is owned by ISIS Waterside Regeneration, is gaining a reputation as a growing arts and cultural destination.

Its tenant include a wide range of creative businesses, including Grand Union Artists Studios and Gallery Space, print company Printbots, picture framers Harris Moore Canvases, K4 Architects, Edible Eastside (urban growing with arts programme and pop up café).

On 25 October the developer will be hosting a workshop on funding sources.

The event is the brainchild of Colliers International’s Investment Property Management team, who advise ISIS on its occupier strategy and property management.

Rachael Lacy, associate director at the firm, said: “Despite the recession we identified that there are still a number of grants and government finance initiatives out there designed to give creative businesses a leg up, whether that is to accelerate growth, invest in new capital or extend their premises.

“The workshop is intended to bring our tenants and other creative businesses up to speed on what’s out there.”

Daniel Carins, an economic development professional with hands-on experience working with the independent and creative sectors, will lead the workshop. Bob Ghosh, of K4Architects, a tenant of Warwick Bar, will talk about his experience of securing ERDF funding. The event is being delivered in conjunction with Media and Arts Partnership (MAAP), the public art consultancy.

The free workshop is from 6-8pm on Thursday, 25 October, at Unit 11, Minerva Works, Fazeley Street, Birmingham. For further information and booking visit: www.warwickbarb5.eventbrite.co.uk.