The Hothouse Programme
by Startacus Admin
Think that intensive accelerator type programmes are only for startups and businesses in the tech and digital sectors? Well, here’s one that’s very different. Hothouseis aimed solely at the creatives - the craft makers. 
Interested? Here’s what you need to know.
What is it?
Hothouse is part of the Crafts Council’s Professional Development Programme for makers and consists of an intensive programme aimed specifically at contemporary makers who want to run sustainable craft practices. The programme itself is broken down into 4 regions or ‘cohorts’ - the North, the Midlands, the South East and the South West. There will be 40 places provided in total with each cohort supporting ten craft makers. It will run between January - June 2014 and makers will participate in a variety of activities including group sessions on developing business skills, market knowledge and creativity, networking events and 1-1 sessions with specialist mentors. Where Hothouse excels is by having these 4 regional cohorts - it is in essence creating a national peer group in which participants can share their knowledge and learn from each other.
Who can apply?
Firstly, your work should be in the contemporary craft sector and you must have a primary aim of developing a self-employed craft practice as your main occupation. You must have practiced your craft for no more than 2 years or be about to start practicing and you must live, work and have unlimited leave to remain in the UK. More details on the types of work permitted, materials and techniques that can be used can be found in the Guidelines for Applicants.
What are they looking for?
First and foremost they are looking for craft makers who are wholly committed to developing a craft based business and practice, who have the potential to combine their creativity with entrepreneurial acumen. They are seeking applications from craft makers whose work is original and which shows real quality and has a strong personal style.
How to apply?
There are 2 sections in the online application process - firstly, a PDF form where you provide details and information about your practice and attach 6 images showing your recent work and secondly an online form where you outline your personal details and referees etc. If your application is successful at this point, you will be then invited to attend an interview at the Crafts Council in London and you will be required to bring along some examples of your work. All applications must be submitted by 5 pm on Tuesday 31st July.
Hothouse is helping people do that thing they love - what’s not to love about that? We’ll certainly be keeping our eye on this one to see what great creatives and makers it helps bring to the fore.
Join Startacus - the Self Start Society!
If you like what you see here on Startacus, why not become a member of our growing community? It's free! And you'll get all this - exclusive access to our Business Toolkit, discounts and offers galore for your business via our member only business deals, the chance to network and connect with loads of fellow self-starters, and maybe even become our celebrated 'Self-Starter of the Week' and tell the world your startup tale! Join right here for free...
Subscribe to our newsletter
If you would like to receive our startup themed newsletter, full of the latest startup opportunities, events, news, stories, tips and advice, then sign up here.
Whirli is an innovative toy subscription service providing you with access to a huge ever-changing toy box
.jpeg)
If, like many of us you're working from home at the moment, here are a few basic tips to help you do just that - in comfort
The award winning Lloyds Lab incubator is back and is currently seeking innovative startups to join its latest cohort, Cohort 6.
The f:Entrepreneur ‘#ialso100’ campaign that's showcasing the inspirational female entrepreneurs who are running small businesses and supporting their communities
Bankhouse Media, the leading full-service digital marketing agency expands its offering and sets up a Belfast base in Glandore
Leading event marketplace, Feast It secures major funding boost to assist with its expansion to full event planning and also further grow its virtual events offering
The London-based fintech innovator, PayDashboard, receives Innovate UK Funding to support its growth in the financial wellness space
Manna is an innovative Irish startup that's on a mission to use commercial drones and make 3-minute delivery within the community a reality
Reboxed is a Brixton-based sustainable commerce startup that's created a smarter, safer, more sustainable way to buy and sell your tech
.jpeg)
Planning a marketing campaign for your business for the year ahead? These tips will help you ensure that it's a success
Published on: 20th May 2013
If you would like to enable commenting via your Startacus account, please enable Disqus functionality in your Account Settings.
- Innovative InsurTech startups take note - Lloyds Lab wants to hear from you 14th Jan 2021 The award winning Lloyds Lab incubator is back and is currently seeking innovative startups to join its latest cohort, Cohort 6.
- Female Entrepreneurs Powering Economy and Communities Celebrated 13th Jan 2021 The f:Entrepreneur ‘#ialso100’ campaign that's showcasing the inspirational female entrepreneurs who are running small businesses and supporting their communities
- PayDashboard secures funding boost for its innovative payslip platform 12th Jan 2021 The London-based fintech innovator, PayDashboard, receives Innovate UK Funding to support its growth in the financial wellness space
- The Wild Curl crowdfunds to fight against hair discrimination 21st Dec 2020 The Wild Curl launches crowdfunding campaign to help with its mission of disrupting the beauty industry and fighting against continuous hair discrimination
