Creative Workshops: Creativity Collaboration Panel
- Fri 19 Sep 2025
- 09:30
- 11:30
- TBC
- Free
Because creativity thrives in good company, an event proudly brought to you by the North East BIC.
If you’re a creative based in Sunderland, wondering how to move forward – or just wanting to meet others who get it – you’ve found your place.
Whether you’re exploring self-employment, growing your creative business, or just want to share ideas with people who understand the ups and downs of working solo, this free and informal workshop is for you.
What to expect
You don’t need a business plan. You don’t even need a business idea.
You just need a talent, a passion, or something you’re good at – and a desire to do something more with it.
This event is more than a workshop – it’s a chance to:
- Meet other local creatives
- Discover collaboration opportunities
- Hear real stories from creative professionals
- Explore how you might turn talent into income
- Get plugged into Sunderland’s growing creative ecosystem
Meet the speakers
Real stories from real creatives. No fluff, no textbook advice – just honest conversations about what it takes to turn your talent into a living. Hear from others who’ve lived the journey and who’ll share the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way.
We’re lining up friendly, down-to-earth creatives who’ll join Helen in a Q&A to share the highs and lows of being their own boss.
Helen Wardropper
Creative Business Adviser
Helen gets it. She’s walked the walk as a caricature artist and now helps others to turn their creative dreams into business reality.
What you’ll gain
- Real-life experiences from fellow creatives
- Collaboration opportunities with local businesses and creatives
- Guidance on self-employment and business support options
- Inspiration and insights from a diverse panel of experts
This is also your gateway to everything else the BIC offers to help businesses get off the ground and grow. That includes one-to-one support, on-demand learning, mentoring, further workshops, Growth Lab events, introductions to useful connections, and more. Just dip into what’s right for you.
Who it’s for
This event is perfect for:
- Local creative collectives or support agencies interested in collaboration
- Creatives based in the Sunderland Local Authority area
- People wanting to get plugged into Sunderland’s growing creative scene
- Anyone who feels ‘stuck in their own head’ and wants to explore new ideas with others
Feeling nervous?
You’re not alone. We know it can be daunting to walk into something new.
That’s why our community workshops are small, welcoming, and designed to be judgement free. No pressure. No business jargon. Just people helping people.
Still unsure?
Click here to email Helen – she’ll walk you through what to expect and help you feel ready.
What we are (and what we’re not)
The North East BIC is a not-for-profit social enterprise that’s helped thousands of people just like you to start their own successful businesses since 1994. Helen explains what to expect from our business advisers here.
What we are
- A support network for creatives
- Practical, down-to-earth help for free
- Working for the good of our communities
- Focused on your goals – personal and professional
What we’re not
- A formal business school
- Teachers with checklists
- Suited and booted
- Here to sell you anything or to pressure you into starting a business
Creative business? What does that even mean?
If you…
- Make things
- Perform or entertain
- Write, draw, film, photograph, or craft
- Or even if you just love thinking and learning creatively
…then you’re in the right place. Creativity comes in many forms – and we’re here for all of them.
Can’t make the date?
No worries! This is part of a series of Creative Workshops happening across Sunderland – check out the others. Prefer to learn online? Our Flying Start Workshops and Smarta eLearning might be what you’re looking for. Get in touch and we’ll help you find the format that fits.
Book your place
Friday 19th September 2025, 09:30-11:30
Venue TBC
Places are limited – register at least 48 hours in advance to secure your spot.