Maker Boot Camp with Advantage Creative and NatWest
At Wavemaker, we’re always looking into new ways to invest in our community and its future. We know that starting a new business is hard, that’s why we applied to NatWest’s Skill and Opportunities Fund with the hopes of kicking off our ‘Maker Boot Camp’, a project that aims to inspire young people aged 16-30 to turn their interest and talent for making into a start-up business whilst giving them the support and encouragement to take those first few steps. We were successful and, back in May, were able to invite hard-working and enthusiastic makers to join us for two weeks of creative and business-focussed workshops.
The first intake allowed would-be entrepreneurs, who may not otherwise have the resources or support they needed, the chance to receive tutoring in practical making skills and business-led skills, so that they could make their dream of being a full-time maker, a reality.
The first week had a heavy focus on the creativity behind business, and how creativity and business can work alongside each other to create success. Filled with new ideas and inspiration, our makers then progressed onto the second week where they listened to, and received advice and support from, business coaches from a range or backgrounds and experience.
At the end of the two weeks, our makers felt more confident and ready to begin their journey towards starting their own businesses, comfortable with the knowledge that Wavemaker, as well as a whole host of other creatives, would be ready to offer encouragement and support.
Richard Redwin, one of the makers who attended, said, ‘ Anyone wanting to make a living through things they make- this course would be great for them. It’s been great to see a lot of people in the position that we were in a couple of years ago, make it. It’s kind of inspiring and makes you realise that you might only be a couple of years away from the life- or the work- that you want to be.’
Following the success of the May intake, Maker Boot Camp is back and we’re thrilled to be able to welcome ever more creatives and makers! In light of feedback, we will now be hosting workshops and talks every Thursday afternoon and evening, with the programme officially commencing on 18th October with a welcoming talk (you can get you tickets for that, here). We’ll be covering a wide range of topics- from marketing and other business basics, to how to build your creative portfolio- so make sure to keep an eye on our social media channels to find out what’s coming up and book your free place on these exciting and sought-after sessions.