GM Creative Industries Exchange

Connect. Collaborate. Create.

Greater Manchester Creative Industries Exchange is a collaboration between GM Business Growth Hub Create Growth Programme and Greater Manchester Combined Authority-Creative Industries. This new event will bring together freelancers, organisations, educators, and industry leaders for a full‑day celebration of the region’s creative strengths. However, it’s not just a showcase – it’s a hands-on response to what 600+ local creatives said they need right now.

There’s a packed programme shaped directly by the sector: panels, workshops, clinics, showcases, fireside chats, live podcasts, and to round things off, a DJ set, live music and the opportunity to network with like-minded people.

The day is all about real support and real opportunities - from clearer pathways into training and employment, to practical help navigating funding, freelancing, skills development, and inclusion. You’ll also get the chance to explore emerging tech, including AI and digital innovation.

Our mission is to:

• Tackle sector challenges and improve support

• Boost skills, training and future talent

• Champion inclusion and represent the region

• Drive collaboration and innovation across sectors

The day will also spotlight Greater Manchester’s strategic direction - sharing updates on the Greater Manchester Creative Industries Sector Development Plan, the Creative Places Growth Fund timeline, and new initiatives such as the Freelancer Network - while elevating local talent through screenings, demonstrations, and a creative marketplace.

By fostering cross‑sector collaboration, championing diversity, and strengthening the creative community, this event will reinforce Greater Manchester’s position as a national leader in creativity and a thriving, inclusive place to build a sustainable creative career.

Agenda: 

10:00 - 16:00 - Conference

16:00 - 20:00 - Live Music & Networking

This event is open to anyone who works, lives, creates or studies in Greater Manchester.

Once your place is confirmed, you will receive an email from us with further details.

This event is delivered by GM Business Growth Hub in partnership with Greater Manchester Combined Authority. By registering, you agree that the information you provide will be shared between GM Business Growth Hub and GMCA for event administration, monitoring, evaluation, and to provide relevant business‑support information.

Your data will be handled securely in line with both organisations’ privacy policies and will not be sold to third parties.

For more information on how your data is stored please visit our privacy policies:

• GM Business Growth Hub: Privacy Policy

• Greater Manchester Combined Authority: Privacy Policy