How are different legal entities and business models supporting creative, cultural, and heritage sector organisations in place?

Research Paper

Partners

University of Warwick

Author

Dr Vishalakshi Roy (University of Warwick)

Editor

Trevor MacFarlane (Culture Commons)

Description

This research paper examines how different legal entities and business models support the growth and sustainability of organisations within the UK’s creative, cultural and heritage ecosystem. Focusing on case studies and policy frameworks from the West Midlands Combined Authority, the paper analyses how business support schemes—from pandemic relief to new initiatives like the Ownership Hub—impact freelancers, SMEs and hybrid creative enterprises. It identifies critical gaps in tailored support, access to information, and local-level data, arguing that one-size-fits-all approaches limit the sector’s potential. The paper calls for more nuanced, evidence-based interventions that recognise the diversity of business models, strengthen local decision-making, and embed creativity in regional economic strategy.

Published as part of The Future of Cultural Devolution in the UK.

June 2024