The Studio, Bath Spa University’s city-centre hub, is all about creativity, innovation and community building. Their goal is to make Bath a creative powerhouse for micro businesses that tackle societal challenges and to build more resilient, cohesive communities.
To activate this vision, they are launching their annual Studio Innovation Fund. They are focusing on proposals that promote collaboration and partnerships between the 'Residents' of The Studio and the wider creative tech community to find tech solutions for pressing social issues.
The funded period runs from 1 January to 31 July 2025.
Successful partnerships will be funded for seven months, ending with an evaluative event in July 2025.
- The funding comprises 3 x £10,000 grants. There is potential for further funds of up to approximately £4,000 for each successful partnership to support project-specific training in creative technologies through The Studio’s pool of freelance trainers. There will also be support in using any of the equipment from their equipment library but it is not a requirement for you to spend the £4,000 in this way.
The scheme is backed by The University’s Centre for Cultural and Creative Industries and a HEQR Policy Support Fund grant from Research England.
Applications are welcome from current Studio Residents partnering with freelancers, micro-businesses, commercial businesses, social enterprises, or third sector organisations. At least one partner must be based in Bath and North East Somerset (BANES).
Awards will be given in instalments, with the final payment in July 2025 after evaluation interview and survey completion.
Proposals must involve a current Studio Resident and at least two confirmed partners (including Studio Resident). They must involve creative technology and aim for a positive social impact. Activities throughout the funded period will be conducted either in The Studio or local region.
The members of the partnerships should all engage with The Studio.
Go along to one of their Connect Events with any questions you might have to find a potential partner for your application.
- Connect! Day – Tuesday 5 November 2024, 12.00pm - 2.00pm.
- Connect! Evening – Tuesday 12 November 2024, 5.00pm - 7.00pm.
What to cover in your application:
- How partnerships will benefit both parties.
- Clearly defined outcomes and desired social impact.
- Details of how training in specific tech supports the partnership development, outcomes and social impact.
- Details of confirmed and potential partners
- A project overview
- Desired social impact
- A budget which should include detail on pay rates, kit expenditure, travel, etc