Creative Business Launchpad Event Inspires Local Entrepreneurs to Take Action
Participants getting creative at the first Creative Business Sprint workshop, Monday 28 October 2024, Coffs Harbour Innovation Hub.
The recent 'Creative Business Launchpad', hosted at the Coffs Harbour Innovation Hub, Coffs Harbour proved to be a resounding success. The event was a collaboration between two local creative professionals—brand and marketing specialist Shane O’Brien (also from the Innovation Hub), and Sara Bowen, Head Teacher of Media, Arts, Design & Entertainment (MADE) at TAFE NSW (also a practicing artist). It aimed to equip local creativepreneurs with the knowledge and inspiration needed to transform their ideas into thriving businesses.
“I’m coming to the end of my Cert IV Furniture Design & Manufacturing at TAFE NSW and I’m thinking about what comes next. Initiatives like this give me guidance for my business ideas and help to keep me accountable!” - Jo Hoy, workshop participant.
The Creative Business Launchpad also encouraged attendees to sign up for the upcoming 'Creative Business Sprint'—a series of four lunchtime workshops beginning on 28 October 2024 at the end of NSW Small Business Month. Hosted by Shane O’Brien and Sara Bowen, along with special guests, these workshops will address key business foundations in branding, marketing, financial planning, and legal considerations, helping participants build strong, sustainable ventures.
Empowering Creative Entrepreneurs Alongside Major TAFE NSW Investment
The Creative Business Sprint is particularly timely, aligning with a broader push to foster creativity and entrepreneurship in the Coffs Coast region. TAFE NSW has recently committed $29 million in upgrades at the Coffs Harbour Education Campus (CHEC), including a modern Creative Industries faculty. This significant investment will enhance the region’s capacity to support creative industry professionals, providing top-tier facilities to nurture talent and drive innovation. The new Creative Industry faculty is set to be completed by mid 2025, marking a new era for creative education and business development in the region.
Sara Bowen, MADE Head Teacher at TAFE NSW Coffs Harbour, who will be co-hosting the workshops, sees this partnership between TAFE NSW and the Innovation Hub as a way to provide practical support to creativepreneurs while the new facilities are being constructed. "The Creative Business Sprint is not only about addressing immediate needs, but also preparing local talent for the incredible opportunities that will come with the opening of our new Creative Industry faculty," Bowen said.
Workshop Schedule:
Workshop 1: 'Defining and Building a Brand' - Monday 28 October 2024
Led by Shane O'Brien, this session will help entrepreneurs clarify their brand strategy and values to stand out in a competitive marketplace. It includes strategies for creating a compelling brand concept and story.
Workshop 2: 'Developing a Marketing Strategy' - Monday 4 November 2024
Shane O'Brien, potentially supported by a local marketing agency, will guide participants through effective digital marketing tools such as social media, content marketing, and email campaigns, with a focus on reaching niche markets.
Workshop 3: 'Financial Planning and Budgeting' - Monday 11 November 2024
Sara Bowen will cover cash flow management, business budgeting, and funding opportunities, including how to apply for grants that can support business growth.
Workshop 4: 'Navigating Legal Foundations' - Monday 18 November 2024
Sara Bowen, with potential input from local solicitor Kieran Abbotts of Abbotts and Co. Lawyers will help creative entrepreneurs understand essential legal matters, from intellectual property protection to contracts and terms and conditions.
The 'Creative Business Sprint' will provide hands-on tools and advice to help creative entrepreneurs build strong business foundations. With the upcoming investment in the new Creative Industry faculty at CHEC, these workshops are a key opportunity for participants to not only gain practical skills but to position themselves for future growth within an increasingly supportive creative ecosystem.
Workshops are free to attend.
For more information or to register, please visit our events page.
About Coffs Harbour Innovation Hub:
For over two decades, the Coffs Harbour Innovation Hub has been a dynamic center for entrepreneurship, uniting local businesses and students to foster a strong relationship that has resulted in meaningful job opportunities and an empowered community. It offers office space, coworking desks, meeting rooms, resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to local businesses and startups. Through targeted workshops and events, the Hub plays a vital role in supporting creative industries on the Coffs Coast, alongside key partners like TAFE NSW, Southern Cross University, and City of Coffs Harbour.