The creative economy is a complex and interconnected international phenomena. It is not something that can be created overnight.
This document will propose many different initiatives and strategies for the stimulation of a creative economy, most of which will be interdependent. Individual failures of particular efforts must be taken as a part of an overall plan to build a new economy of the future. The will to aspire to something new and worthwhile must be accompanied by ideas that over-reach and are poorly received by the majority of people. But the efforts taken in trying to do something will always be noted and rewarded by leading creative thinkers who recognise the necessity of rule breaking and experimentation.
While some initiatives can be implemented quickly, it is likely that most of the strategies proposed herein will take many years to come to fruition.
Specific, realistic goals should be set and described in detail however as a general overview it is suggested that a five year time line be established to achieve international acceptance of a centre for creative activity. This time line would be punctuated by specific openings and activities during the first five year plan and lead to a second five year scheme and an overall goal of having a self-supporting creative economy that provides significant local employment, greatly enhanced global perception of the region and attracts large scale international inward investment by the end of the second phase.
Care must be taken during the initial growth period not to ‘over hype’ the progress of the various initiatives. While press releases and publicity generating activity are an essential part of any modern communication strategy, it is important not to make false claims and to acknowledge the length of the processes involved. Attempts to suggest accelerated results can only be backed up by publishing examples of the creative work itself as all informed commentators will be aware of the need for patience and the importance of time in establishing veracity. ‘Quick fix’ solutions will be summarily dismissed as gimmicks.
Commitment to the long term is imperative.
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