New £380 million investment to boost creative industries across the UK
The UK government has announced a £380 million funding package to support creative businesses, drive innovation, and create jobs across the country. This investment is part of the new Creative Industries Sector Plan, published alongside the government’s wider Industrial Strategy.
What’s in the plan?
The Creative Industries Sector Plan sets out a framework for the growth of the sector to 2035. It promises a significant increase in direct, targeted funding for the sector, aimed at supporting innovation, research and development (R&D), skills, and access to finance for creative businesses. The funding package covers several distinct initiatives.
Regional growth
A £150 million Creative Places Growth Fund will give six regions outside London money to help creative businesses, and provide finance, mentoring, and networking opportunities for businesses to connect with investors and skills programmes.
At least £50 million will support the creation of new Creative Industries Clusters across the UK, bringing together universities, businesses, local leaders, and private funders to boost research, innovation, and growth in creative industries.
Another £25 million will fund five new UK Research and Innovation CoSTAR labs and two showcase spaces aimed at developing innovative and immersive technologies to enhance creative experiences.
Supporting talent
The plan also includes £10 million to upskill new film and TV trainees and apprentices over the next decade, and another £9 million to help establish a new creative careers service to help young people find jobs in the sector.
Backing key sectors
The plan pledges tailored growth packages for certain sub-sectors, including
- £75 million for screen industries (film and TV)
- £30 million for music, including support for grassroots venues
- £30 million for video games start-ups
Support was announced for emerging fashion designers through the British Fashion Council’s NEWGEN programme, to help them showcase their work at London Fashion Week and secure business mentoring.
New marketplace
A Creative Content Exchange will be set up to help businesses sell, buy, and license digital cultural and creative assets, opening up new revenue streams for content owners.
What does this mean for Northern Ireland businesses?
Creative businesses in Northern Ireland will be able to benefit from increased access to finance, skills programmes, and support for innovation.
The UK government is working closely with the devolved governments of Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to deliver the Industrial Strategy, including the Creative Industries Sector Plan, with partnership focused on shared goals to support growth and innovation across all the regions.
For more details, read the full Creative Industries Sector Plan.
First published 24 June 2025
