In the new global investment landscape, banks, institutions and private investors are looking hard to find opportunities that maximise their returns. But in this new landscape the criteria for investment decisions need to be more than financial. Decisions must reflect the massive changes that have occurred throughout the UK and global economy and moreover, the new perceptions people have of poor corporate governance, lack of corporate social responsibility and declining standards in public and political life.

With lack of finance and credit for the best of businesses, projects and companies with the characteristics of innovation and unique thinking are at risk. As these characteristics pertain well to the creative industries, the business of creativity is under threat of being under-funded now and into the future. It is important for investors and those seeking funding, to map out and understand how projects can deliver both financial and human value. Creative industries investments can provide real opportunities for return, especially when compared to other investment sectors e.g. football.

With an appreciation of the new world order in business, banking and society and a with a uniquely challenging future ahead for all of us, an investment in a creative industries project can regenerate, empower, re-skill, employ, motivate, inspire and reward a wide range of people connected and involved. But many tasks remain. How can the funds available be matched with the right opportunity for the investor? How can the project or business best demonstrate their value and vision and put forward a compelling case? How will success be measured if the outcomes are both commercial and community? How can these new world investments in creativity be leveraged for the benefit of both parties? How can all the people involved develop, create and share a new common language of understanding that helps ensure the project or businesses success?

There is a solution. The Creative Industries Investment Opportunities Network (CiiON) is a new network and membership organisation that seeks to broker and match opportunities in creative industries with appropriate investors. CiiON is a place where the people involved in any aspect of the creative industries can collaborate, communicate, seek funding and make projects and business happen.

Whether you are an investor, a resource provider, a creative person, a creative business,
a not-for-profit organisation or developing a creative project, joining CiiON will enhance the chances of achieving your objectives.

CiiON’s mission is to act as a forum and network for the many organisations, companies and people working and investing in the creative industries. But our mission is underpinned by a set of values that reflect new emerging attitudes to business, political and social life.

We provide a framework to help our members get the balance right. A balance,
that utilises the power of innovation, entrepreneurship, enterprise, technology and reward for risk whilst delivering true benefits to wider communities including sustainability, environment, inclusion, cohesion, skills development and more.

CiiON’s role is to provide a collaborative networking environment that highlights investment opportunities and potential funders and helps facilitates the successful implementation of a wide range of innovative projects and programmes in the creative industries.

To find out more about CiiON please call 01494 883163