The Royal College of Art (RCA) is hosting a three-day executive masterclass titled “Building a Globally Successful Creative Business” from September 18-20, 2024. This course is designed to provide entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders in creative industries with the tools and insights needed to grow their businesses. The masterclass will feature sessions led by renowned creative entrepreneurs and RCA academics, offering a unique look into the processes behind successful creative ventures. Participants will engage in off-site visits to studios, galleries, and creative workspaces across London, enhancing their learning experience.
Insights from Industry Leaders
The masterclass will feature contributions from prominent figures in the creative industry. Patrik Schumacher, Principal of Zaha Hadid Architects, will share his expertise on innovative design and architecture. Eva Guerra, a strategic design and service experience consultant, will discuss the importance of user experience in creative projects. Additionally, Jay Osgerby, co-founder of Universal Design Studio, will provide insights into the intersection of design and business. These sessions aim to equip participants with practical knowledge and strategies to apply in their own creative endeavors.
Participants will also benefit from the experiences of other successful entrepreneurs. Rosey Blackmore, Licensing and Merchandise Director at Tate, will discuss the role of licensing in expanding a creative business. Neil McConnon, Director of International Partnerships at Tate, will highlight the importance of global collaborations. These insights will help participants understand the diverse aspects of running a creative business and the strategies needed to succeed on a global scale.
The masterclass is structured around three core themes: building a business, developing new markets, and growing and developing a team. Each theme will be explored through interactive sessions, case studies, and group discussions, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the creative industry.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
One of the unique aspects of this masterclass is the experiential learning opportunities it offers. Participants will visit various creative workspaces across London, including Somerset House, Universal Design Studio, Tate Modern, and Bompas & Parr. These visits will provide firsthand insights into the operations of successful creative businesses and the environments that foster innovation.
During these visits, participants will have the chance to interact with industry professionals and observe their work processes. This hands-on experience will complement the theoretical knowledge gained during the sessions, offering a well-rounded learning experience. The off-site visits are designed to inspire participants and provide them with practical examples of how creative businesses operate and thrive.
The masterclass will also include sessions led by RCA academics and founders of successful start-ups from the award-winning incubator InnovationRCA. These sessions will cover topics such as business development, market expansion, and team management, providing participants with the skills needed to grow their own creative ventures.
Networking and Collaboration
Networking is a crucial component of the masterclass. Participants will have numerous opportunities to connect with their peers, industry leaders, and RCA academics. These interactions will facilitate the exchange of ideas and foster collaborations that can lead to new business opportunities.
The small-group setting of the masterclass ensures that participants receive personalized attention and can engage in meaningful discussions. This environment encourages the sharing of experiences and challenges, allowing participants to learn from each other and gain new perspectives on their own businesses.
In addition to the formal sessions, there will be informal networking events where participants can build relationships and explore potential collaborations. These events are designed to create a supportive community of creative professionals who can continue to support each other beyond the duration of the masterclass.