1. CREATIVE INDUSTRIES IN THE OUTER HEBRIDES Joe MacPhee Michael Braun Comhairle nan Eilean Siar

2. Agenda Strategic Setting The Creative Industries Key Projects

3. Strategic Setting Cultural Strategy Creating Communities of the Future Creative Industries Strategy “…a long-term regeneration vision for the Outer Hebrides…outlining what we are going to do and what we anticipate achieving.” “To preserve, enhance and promote the culture and heritage of the islands and ensure that opportunities for culture, leisure and recreation are readily available to all.” “…to become an internationally recognised creative cluster, characterised by a vibrant and economically strong creative industries sector.”

4. Outer Hebrides Creative Industries Strategy Creating Communities Of the Future Outer Hebrides Cultural Strategy Coordinated Action Plan Strategic Context

5. The Creative Industries Gaelic Advertising Art and Antiques Fashion Designer Fashion Performing Arts Software and Computers Architecture Crafts Design Film and Video Music Literature and Publishing TV and Radio Demand is increasing for high quality, creative content and products The Creative Industries are seen as having the highest potential for economic growth of all sectors in the UK and Scotland The new Scottish government economic strategic identifies the Creative Industries as a key sector

6. Outer Hebrides Context Economic challenges facing the islands open up new opportunities in non-traditional sectors Creative industries sector strong in Outer Hebrides Outer Hebrides seen as a creative and inspiring place A number of strengths

7. Current Situation Survey of individuals and businesses conducted – identified a number of sector strengths and barriers Great diversity Arts, crafts, writing, media and new media are key sectors Gaelic culture and natural environment are important Individual creatives ready to increase business activity Enthusiastic base – real opportunity for support Access to funding/financing Suitable work spaces Business growth Access to business support in marketing and promotion Lack of business support information Long term business planning StrengthsBarriers

8. Future Direction Creative Industries Strategy – consolidate activities within this sector in the Outer Hebrides A number of strategic objectives aiming to Promote growth within the sector Promote the islands as a creative place and attract creative individuals Increase employment and economic activity within this sector Attract investment and realise growth potential

9. Future Direction CREATIVE HEBRIDES Business Development Business Incubators Creative Clusters Collaboration

10. Key Projects Cearcaill na Gàidhlig (The Gaelic Rings) Hebrides TV

11. A tourism marketing initiative that builds on the existing transportation infrastructure Focus on Caledonian Macbryne’s Island Hopscotch routes Links transport to the unique language and cultural heritage of the Outer Hebrides and Western Highlands Building on this is the concept of a Gaelic Ring Concept

12. Activity - 2007 2007 Pilot First “Ring” journey from Oban to Barra, Uists, and Skye Brand development and marketing Support of over 150 businesses along the “Ring” Success of pilot warrants 2008 expansion

13. Activity - 2008 5 New Rings

14. To showcase and promote the best of the environment, heritage, and culture of the Outer Hebrides A creative space for the community to publish cultural content that can be viewed by anyone with a broadband connection To encourage innovation and new business development in the new media/creative industries sector A service delivery channel for public sector, local businesses and community groups A tool to attract tourism and inward migration

17. CREATIVE INDUSTRIES IN THE OUTER HEBRIDES Q u e s t I o n s ?