Guided by our work with children and young people, Making Space are launching a brand-new project aiming to help 16–25-year-olds who have an interest in a creative career and launching a small creative business. The project will take place online and from our fully accessible, purpose-built studios in the heart of Leigh Park.

Our makers tell us that when starting out they needed guidance on basic business skills, including accountancy, purchasing stock, invoicing, pricing work, marketing etc. They needed advice that was personal to them which would have helped them ‘Make A Start’.

We know that creative young people are living through hard and challenging lives, which are limiting their opportunities and reducing aspirations. Making a Start will intervene, providing maker progression sessions for up to 25 young people living in Southampton, Portsmouth, Havant, Gosport, Fareham and/or Petersfield, who wish to develop their skills in order to make a living by launching a craft business. The project will help improve participation in society, increase opportunities and ensure access to necessary resources, removing barriers to young people living full and rewarding lives.

The project has been specially curated to include a general programme and bespoke activity which will be tailored to the participants needs, all delivered by our staff team and experienced makers.

*Maker Development sessions, designed to meet individual needs, challenges and aspirations.

*Opportunities to join our weekly Craftology sessions and 4 bespoke creative group workshops.

*A marketing intensive course covering brand identity, copywriting and audience development.

*A financial guide to setting up a business including financial considerations when starting a business and how to create a budget and price work.

*A session on bursaries and funding opportunities for new starters, understand what funding and support is available.

*Online weekly drop-ins for those on the programme and opportunity become part of a small business network

*One-to-one sessions and training placements

*2 selling opportunities in our Pop-Up Shop events.

The project has been designed to be flexible, to meet the needs and circumstances of those attending. Those participating can schedule their sessions to fit around college, work, caring commitments etc.

Young people will thrive because of this project,
they will see the potential for a creative life and rewarding career. Having their aspirations acknowledged and being equipped with the practical skills they need, we will expand their sense of possibility and they will discover opportunities and understand how to, and have confidence to access resources, support and guidance.