On 8 February, the updated version of eXpressions' Creatives incubator programme was launched. Sixteen companies are now ready to challenge themselves and the industries in which they operate. In establishing the new programme, lessons have been learned from the nationally acclaimed Future Retail Lab initiative, among others.
It feels incredibly inspiring to finally be up and running. We've worked hard to find a good set-up that mixes external expertise with experienced business coaches, all to support the emergence of new innovative companies. All the companies involved feel on their toes and full of anticipation. Just like us," says Annakarin Nyberg responsible for the programme together with Anna Wikholm Kjellberg.
One of the entrepreneurs looking forward to the programme is Anton Klock who runs the company Klockworks:
My goal is to develop my freelance work and attract more creatives in video production and digital experiences. I hope to create something new in the market. I can imagine hiring people in the future and taking a more strategic and project management role.
Mirja Rosendal has quite recently moved home after many years in London. She is a fashion designer and hopes to establish her own brand Myren in Sweden. Clothes she has created have been worn by such celebrities as Drake and Emma Watson.
I already sell some through a shop in London but I have a desire to do something here at home. It felt right to move back and focus on my business. I have my studio in Holmsund but I need a context like eXpression.
Creatives 2023
- Anna Sundström Lindmark, author and writer
- Föreningsfrämjandet, merch sales and souvenirs
- Joel Gerhardsson, sound designer
- Kaaos Kaamos, circus company and academy
- Klockworks, video and animations
- Lyckopodden, podcast on mental health
- Myren, fashion and upcycling
- OTK Collective, media and communication
- Parrexion games, game development
- Peripheral Works, architecture and branding
- Studio Mark, architecture and design
- Studio Sirka, graphic designer
- Triango Studiosmusic studio community
- Visionary Wine, wine tasting and experiences
- Wisalsson, a new gum wrapper
- Meadow traphome furnishing products
Creatives will run for one year with the possibility of an extension based on need. In total there are 14 workshops in areas such as business models and market analysis, branding, communication strategies, pricing and packaging. In addition, time is offered with industry experts and business developers to drive business development forward.
The programme is aimed at entrepreneurs who have a developable product, tested against an intended target group and market - in the cultural and creative industries. Participants are part of the eXpressions community and environment, which includes office space, two makerspaces and networking opportunities.
In establishing the new programme, lessons have been learned from the Future Retail Lab, the accelerator programme that was run at eXpression Umeå for three years between 2019 and 2022.
PHOTO: Malin Grönborg
