Key sectors
The Create Growth Programme was launched in 2022 by the Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) in partnership with Innovate UK. It is designed to support the development of creative industries with high-growth potential and is delivered across different regions in England, outside of London. It aims to drive innovation and investment in the sector and supports early-stage and scaling businesses stimulate growth and attract private investment.
The programme was initially a £17.5 million investment in the sector, with up to £7 million provided by Innovate UK, and in July 2023, the previous government published its Sector vision in which it announced an additional £10.9 million to support a further six regions. Innovate UK provided another £6.92 million for the grant funding competition. Eligible businesses in Create Growth regions can apply to Innovate UK for grants and investor partnerships.