Join Professor Lidia Varbanova for an inspiring look at the latest European research on cultivating innovation and entrepreneurship in cultural and creative Industries in non-urban areas. This lively session is perfect for anyone working in – or supporting – arts, culture, and creativity in the non-urban areas of the West Midlands and beyond.
This session will share the accumulated experience from the IN SITU project and the latest resource: a methodological guide for capacity building in Cultural and Creative Industries (CCIs), designed specifically for non-urban contexts. Developed by the IN SITU team at the National Academy of Theatre and Film Arts “Kr. Sarafov” in Bulgaria, this comprehensive guide is rooted in the practical experiences of IN SITU’s Horizon Europe-funded activities and aims to support innovation and entrepreneurship within regional creative ecosystems.
This guide is tailored for trainers, facilitators, lecturers, mentors, coaches, and researchers working to strengthen CCIs in rural, remote, and smaller urban settings. It begins by defining the concept of capacity building, its relevance for CCIs, and key methodological approaches. Special attention is given to the unique challenges and needs of cultural operators working outside of large urban centres.
You can find out more about the guide here:
https://insituculture.eu/empowering-creative-futures-a-new-guide-for-capacity-building-in-non-urban-areas
Prof. Dr. Lidia Varbanova is Program Director, MA in Management of Performing Arts and Industries, National Academy of Theatre and Film Arts, Member of the UNESCO International Expert Facility for the Implementation of the Convention on Cultural Diversity and an International Consultant and Educator: Arts, Culture and Creative Industries. In her free time, Lidia plays piano, swims and bikes, practices yoga, enjoys cultural and outdoor activities and volunteers for social causes. Find out more at www.lidiavarbanova.ca
Getting involved
These meetings take place online at 9.30-10.30am (UK) on the second Tuesday of every month. If you would like to join the learning sessions, please sign up using the form linked below or email info@culturecentral.co.uk.
We aim to facilitate and accommodate all accessibility needs. Please do let us know below if you have any specific questions, needs or comments and we will do our best to meet them.
About WMCRU
Set up during COVID, our regular West Midlands Culture Response Unit (WMCRU) meetings were a vital lifeline for the sector in connecting, sharing and getting practical information and advice. WMCRU has continued to be a useful space for organisations and individuals that Culture Central continues to support as a collective and collaborative space for all those that are interested in the cultural ecology of the region. In 2024-25, WMCRU meetings will explore key strategic challenges and opportunities that affect the sector and the region.