Masterclass on Building Successful Creative Businesses: Insights from Experts

A three-day executive masterclass, scheduled from September 18–20, 2024, promises an in-depth exploration of the processes behind building and scaling successful creative businesses. Designed by Philip Dodd, Chair of Made in China UK Ltd, and Nadia Danhash, Director of InnovationRCA and AngelClubRCA, this course targets entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders in creative industries, providing them with the tools and insights needed to amplify their impact and navigate the complexities of business growth.

Hosted by the Royal College of Art (RCA), the masterclass is structured around three core themes: building a business, developing new markets, and growing and leading a team. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with and learn from some of the brightest minds in the creative sector, including RCA academics and founders of successful startups from the award-winning incubator, InnovationRCA.

The course offers a unique, small-group setting, allowing participants to engage deeply with the content, reflect on their current practices, and explore new strategies for business expansion. Practical issues faced by creative businesses will be addressed, providing actionable insights that participants can implement immediately.

In addition to the classroom experience, the course includes off-site visits to some of London’s most inspiring creative spaces, such as Somerset House, Universal Design Studio, Tate Modern, and Bompas & Parr. These visits will offer participants a behind-the-scenes look at the environments where innovation thrives.

The 2024 programme features contributions from an impressive roster of guest speakers, including:

•Patrik Schumacher, Principal of Zaha Hadid Architects

•Eva Guerra, Strategic Design and Service Experience Consultant

•Jay Osgerby, Co-founder of Universal Design Studio

•Rosey Blackmore, Licensing and Merchandise Director at Tate

•Neil McConnon, Director of International Partnerships at Tate

•Anthony Rowe, Founder of Squidsoup

•Sam Bompas, Co-founder of Bompas & Parr

•Chelsea Chen, Co-founder of Emotech

•Daljit Singh, Co-founder of ANNA Money

•Clara Gaggero Westaway, Co-founder and Creative Director of Special Projects

•Virginia Gardiner, CEO of Loowatt Ltd.

These industry leaders will share their experiences in initiating, driving, and managing creative projects and businesses, providing participants with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.

The masterclass coincides with the London Design Festival, offering participants a broader context of London’s status as a global hub for creative industries. This timing provides an excellent opportunity to network with designers from around the world and gain insights into the latest trends and innovations in the sector.

Applications for the course are required, and interested parties are encouraged to visit the course webpage for further details and to apply.