The London Centre for Arts and Cultural Exchange invited individuals with innovative business ideas for the creative and cultural industries to apply to the LCACE Summer School. 30 individuals succeeded in acquiring a place on the comprehensive and free 5 day course, which explored the key aspects of setting up a business, or a freelance career. The Summer School included intensive training from leading professionals and academics in the cultural and creative industries, keynote speakers from a multiplicity of arts-based backgrounds, as well as one-to-one mentoring to assist participants in transforming their ideas into business plans.  Applications were welcomed from graduating or postgraduate students of all partner Higher Education Institutions. Case studies, work packs and useful contacts were provided to Summer School participants to keep for reference, and key topics covered included financial planning, legality issues, networking skills, ethical business planning and marketing strategy.

Contributors/Speakers: Andy Chapman, Nesta Creative Pioneers Programme; Sian Prime, Nesta Creative Pioneers Programme.