A new digital platform aimed at strengthening Swansea’s creative and cultural sector has officially launched, connecting creatives, organisations and businesses across the region.
Developed through consultations, roundtable discussions and sector gatherings, Creative Swansea has created the new online hub in response to calls from the sector for a shared space to connect, collaborate and access opportunities.
The new platform, creativeswansea.com, offers free membership for people working across the creative and cultural industries, allowing users to build profiles, showcase portfolios and projects, and discover events, commissions, jobs and networking opportunities.
The initiative has been funded through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and is being delivered by Swansea Council as part of a wider programme supporting the city’s growing creative economy.
Tracey McNulty, Head of Cultural Services, Parks and Cleansing said:
“Culture and creativity are central to Swansea’s identity – and they are also a growing part of our economy. From freelancers and small creative businesses to major cultural organisations, the creative sector supports jobs, skills and investment across the city and the wider region. Creative Swansea brings that cultural and economic value together in one place, making it easier for people to connect, collaborate and turn creative talent into sustainable activity that benefits our communities and our city.”
The website includes a searchable directory of creative professionals and organisations, alongside events listings, networking opportunities, sector news, project showcases and open calls.
Creative Swansea will also host a free networking event at the Swansea Grand Theatre on Wednesday, May 27 from 6pm to 8pm, giving creatives an opportunity to meet collaborators, share ideas and learn more about the platform.
Organisers say the website has been designed as a “living platform”, shaped by ongoing input from members and the wider creative community.
Nerys Evans, Strategic Manager for Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy said:
“Creative Swansea supports the ambitions of Swansea’s Cultural Strategy by championing culture as both a vital part of the city’s identity and a driver of jobs, skills and sustainable economic growth across the wider region. The platform reflects the strength and diversity of Swansea’s creative and cultural sector, helping practitioners and organisations connect, collaborate and access opportunities that support long-term creative work and a resilient local economy.”
Creative Swansea is encouraging creatives, organisations and partners across the region to get involved by sharing projects, posting opportunities and helping shape the future direction of the platform.
