Research Findings

Research findings from Creative Entrepreneurs Survey 1, completed by 13 participants working in the following fields:  

• Art and photography
• Music Recording, Production, Events
• Image and Retail Consultancy
• Regenerative culture change
• Social media influencers
• Vintage and upcycled furniture.
• Upcycling textiles making and training
• Ceramics producers
• Community Education Services to capture the views of unemployed people via Social Inclusion trainees

The survey initially sought to understand the Impact of the Pandemic on Creative Entrepreneurs.  Our respondents shared that:-

The survey then brought circular approaches to the fore, with responses showing the stark need for projects such as Circular Creative.

• 69% of participants stated that sustainability was an important factor for them in their work.
• However only 38% of participants try to live in zero waste, which seems to contradict above statement and perhaps showcases a lack of education surrounding the term ‘Zero waste.
• This reality is highlighted by the fact that only 46% of participants stated that they were familiar with the circular economy and incorporated into their daily work.
• This may be an issue highlighted by the fact that only 46% of participants share creative resources with other businesses.
• 69% of participants stated that they would like to have access to recourses that educate the on ways to implement the circular economy into their own enterprise.
• 85% of participants wanted to find new business opportunities.
• 62% of participants would like to meet other creative entrepreneurs.

Almost one third / 31% of respondents felt that circular economic/sustainable practices helped them during the pandemic.  They highlighted a need for greater education on circular economic practices.

Role of Vocational Education and Training

Bear in mind, this was a small sample of 5 VET providers, but the findings are clear and validate the need for the training proposed by Circular Creatives

• Only 8% of participants felt that VET was a mechanism for ensuring a skilled workforce that can thrive and scale up in a circular economy due to a lack of specialist knowledge
  • Only 8% of participants felt that their school could collaborate with industry to advance knowledge in a circular economy
  • Only 15% of participants feel that their VET encourages the development of basic circular economic skills.
  • Only 8% of participants had a circular economic platform in their VET
  • VET respondents highlighted the need for greater support and specialised training in regard to the creation and promotion of a circular economy among businesses.

As part of her workshop at Panel Meeting 2, Carrie-Ann Moran conducted an interactive survey via Mentimetre. While broad in scope, it gives insight into the barriers:-