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.
London-based StateZero Labs, the world’s first dedicated Blockchain Lab for startups, will be opening its doors to six selected startups as part of its first cohort in January 2019.
Twigdoo offers a lead management service for businesses - a service which engages and converts leads whilst providing a high quality sales experience
Artomatix - The Dublin based startup that's using AI to help 3D artists create...
The startup that helps media companies to leverage user context data without exposing personal data...
IGO Adventures organise a series of multi-disciplined, physical challenges in some of the world’s most spectacular & remote wildernesses. Now they are looking to raise investment.
The no-bullshit-business coach and founder of consultancy firm RenOC, Karen Kwong, shares her top tips for getting your business back on track in 2019.
SpareFare - The online platform and marketplace which enables people to sell their non refundable flights, holidays or hotels.
Bidooh, the world’s first facial analysis, digital billboard software platform on the blockchain, agrees contract to roll out 10k real-time digital advertising screens in South Korea
Currently in private beta, Claimer wants to be app for R&D tax credits helping businesses to easily get money back from their R&D spend.
Launchpad, the innovative, post-graduate incubation and acceleration programme developed by Falmouth University in Cornwall, are on the hunt for their next cohort...
Published on: 20th May 2013
If you would like to enable commenting via your Startacus account, please enable Disqus functionality in your Account Settings.
- Blockchain lab for startups StateZero Labs to offer £50k equity-free 15th Nov 2018 London-based StateZero Labs, the world’s first dedicated Blockchain Lab for startups, will be opening its doors to six selected startups as part of its first cohort in January 2019.
- UK scaling startups sort for Upscale Tech Nation programme 5th Nov 2018 UK-wide scaling startups take note! This free programme, care of Tech Nation is aimed at further accelerating the growth of your business.
- Chancellor’s ‘little extras’ will not undo 8 years of cuts to public services, says TUC 29th Oct 2018 Commenting on the 2018 Budget Statement, which set out the government’s spending plans up to 2024, TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady had this to say...
- NI Propel Pre-Accelerator countdown begins 26th Oct 2018 If you are an early-stage startup or entrepreneur based in Northern Ireland, you better be quick if you want to apply for the next IGNITE lead Propel Pre-Accelerator programme.
