Inclusive Network Late Takes: Creative Circle
Theme: New Economies: Creative Sustainability and Alternative Models
Date: Wednesday 24 September 2025, 5:30-7:30pm
Location: Art Quarter, 11 Allison Street, Birmingham B5 5TH
RSVP – Register Here
Event Overview
The future of creative work won’t look like the past. As traditional funding streams shrink and old models falter, new economies are reshaping how creativity is sustained. From content creation and entrepreneurship to community wealth-building, artists and collectives are developing models that prioritise resilience, ownership, and inclusivity.
At this Inclusive Network Creative Circle, we’ll explore:
How alternative economic models can support long-term creative sustainability
The rise of the creator economy and what it means for West Midlands cultural sector
The role of inclusive creative hubs in building wealth and resilience
How Inclusive Network members can tap into new trends in content creation, collaboration, and entrepreneurship
What to Expect
Guided tour of Art Quarter – an inclusive creative business and creative hub
Fireside Chat: Jordan Patel (founder of Art Quarter) in conversation with Sipho Eric Ndlovu
Networking with Inclusive Network members and local creatives
Speakers
Jordan Patel is a leader in creative industries and urban regeneration and community empowerment, dedicated to amplifying British minority’s voices in policy and social change. As founder of Birmingham’s Art Quarter, he champions inclusive spaces that celebrate diversity, identity and entrepreneurship. His work bridges economic growth, faith-based accessibility, and cultural cohesion to create lasting impact. As author of The Creator Economy Jordan’s work highlights how creators are redefining business models through multiple income streams—advertising, partnerships, subscriptions, and direct audience support. His Art Box 2.0 programme proposes dedicated creator spaces, training, and mentorship to tackle barriers faced by young people, especially those not in education, employment, or training. His vision positions Birmingham as the UK’s first city to systematically invest in a creator economy infrastructure.
Sipho Eric Ndlovu is a Birmingham-based performance artist, writer, facilitator and producer. Working within education, academia and disability arts, Sipho aims to create inclusive spaces as an advocate for arts and culture.
About Art Quarter
Art Quarter is a pioneering creative hub in Birmingham that champions diversity, identity, and entrepreneurship. It combines workspace, community, and cultural programming to support artists and entrepreneurs. Through initiatives like Art Box 2.0, Art Quarter aims to bridge digital skills, economic growth, and cultural cohesion—making space for creatives to thrive on their own terms.
Access
We aim to make our events accessible to everyone. Travel bursaries are available on request, and we’re happy to discuss any additional access needs. Please get in touch with charlenecarterjames@culturecentral.co.uk to arrange support.
Places are limited. Priority given to Inclusive Network members.
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