Applications are now open for two new programmes of support for the creative industries in the South West.

The two programmes – Investment Readiness and Mentoring – have been launched by South West Screen to allow businesses to thrive with the help of industry experts, mentors and workshops.

To apply for the Investment Readiness programme, click here

To apply for the Mentoring programme, click here

Investment Readiness will help participating business leaders develop an investment proposition which is more likely to generate investor interest.

Leaders of small to medium sized enterprises (SME) from any creative sector will receive workshops, pitching session and free advice session from legal partner Thrings and accountants Baker Tilly. Sessions will take place in Bristol in the first three months of 2012.

Mentoring, established in conjunction with NESTA, is a programme which allows business leaders to get expert advice from highly successful creative entrepreneurs.

Throughout 2012, leaders of SMEs accepted onto the Mentoring programme will receive advice sessions with a proven, experienced creative business leader; one-day workshops to make sure they get the most from their mentoring; and one-to-one sessions with a specialist business coach to help them stay on track.

South West Screen Innovation Director Anthony Story said: “Creative companies are often set up by people with creative-led expertise; however, this doesn’t diminish their commitment to growing solid and successful businesses.

“These two programmes provide creative people with access to expert management advice. This advice will allow them to place their creative venture onto a firm business footing; developing clear business strategies and securing growth by commercialising new innovation.”

The Mentoring and Investment Readiness programmes are supported by the Creative Industries iNet, part of Solutions for Business, funded by the European Regional Development Fund and led by South West Screen.

Apply now for Mentoring and Investment Readiness. Deadline: 9 December 2011

Visit swscreen.co.uk for the latest news on Mentoring and Business Readiness.