The Creative Industries in the Great South West
Showcasing cross-sector growth and potential
The ҹèÊÓƵ contributed to The Creative Industries in the Great South West, a landmark report examining the region's distinctive strengths, emerging trends, and future potential across the creative industries. The study spans sectors including arts, design, digital media, performance, and wider cultural enterprises throughout the South West.
The report was published by , a strategic partnership covering Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. United by a shared commitment to economic opportunity and sustainability, the partnership aims to unlock regional strengths across sectors and communities to support long-term prosperity.
Under the leadership of Falmouth University, and on behalf of the Great South West Creative Industries University Alliance, the study incorporates data and insights from Arts University Bournemouth, Arts University ҹèÊÓƵ, Bournemouth University, Falmouth University, the University of Exeter, and the ҹèÊÓƵ.
Report launch event in Westminster
Key findings from the report
The creative industries represent a major economic and employment force, supporting at least 35,000 employees – exceeding the combined employment of the energy and defence sectors – alongside over 40,000 freelancers.
In addition, a further 50,000 creative roles exist within non-creative industries, underlining the sector's wide-reaching influence across the economy. This strength is underpinned by world-leading universities, which deliver cutting-edge research and produce nearly 7,000 highly skilled graduates each year in creative and creative technology disciplines.
The ecosystem is sustained by a strong business base, with 15,870 registered creative industries companies operating across the region.
Creative industries are thriving
- The creative sector in the Great South West demonstrates strong resilience with significant contributions to employment, local economies, and cultural life.
- Creative businesses are geographically widespread, from urban hubs to rural communities, reflecting a vibrant ecosystem.
Digital creativity is a growth engine
- Digital and media-related creative work – such as gaming, film production, animation, and immersive technologies – is expanding rapidly.
- These sub-sectors attract investment, talent, and cross-regional collaboration.
Collaboration is critical
- Successful growth is rooted in collaboration between universities, cultural organisations, community partners, and creative entrepreneurs.
- Universities play a pivotal role in research, innovation, talent pipeline, and enterprise support.
Identity and place-based opportunities
- The unique cultural heritage and natural beauty of the South West strengthen creative tourism, performance art, and place-based content creation.
- Creative endeavours have a direct impact on regional identity, wellbeing, and global reach.
The ҹèÊÓƵ is at the heart of creative research and innovation in the Great South West.
We support the creative economy through:
- Academic excellence – research-led teaching across arts, media, design, and digital innovation.
- Industry partnerships – connecting students and researchers with cultural organisations and creative businesses.
- Enterprise support – facilitating incubation, funding access, and professional development.
- Community engagement – collaborating with local communities to amplify impact and accessibility.
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