Aspiring creatives will get free access to business support this autumn, as the University of South Wales (USW) and Welsh ICE team up to deliver an eight-week creative enterprise bootcamp, designed to help people turn creative ideas into real-world ventures.
The USW Creative Bootcamp, beginning 23 September 2025 at the university’s Treforest campus, is open to anyone aged 18 or over, whether they’re recent graduates, early-career freelancers, or simply exploring self-employment in the creative industries.
This project is a continuation of an existing, bigger project funded by Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council called CABAN (Creative Artist and Business Action Network), which is Welsh for ‘cabin’ or ‘gathering’. The programme is fully funded by Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council and is free to attend.
With sessions running weekly until the 18th November, the bootcamp combines practical workshops, creative exercises, and peer collaboration, aimed at helping participants test ideas, build confidence, and explore next steps in business or freelance careers. No formal business background is needed.
Richie Turner, Incubator Manager at USW Startup Stiwdio, said:
“USW Startup Stiwdio is delighted to be able to extend the Creative Artist and Business Action Network (CABAN) in RCT to support anyone with a new creative idea to turn it into a sustainable business. Working again with our partners RCT Council and Welsh ICE, who we have worked together many times in Newport, and are also hugely experienced at supporting freelancers and startup businesses.”
Supporting the Next Wave of Welsh Creatives
This programme is part of a wider mission to make entrepreneurship more inclusive and accessible, especially within the arts, design and media sectors, which often lack tailored early-stage support.
Hope Eckley, ICE Academy Manager at Welsh ICE, said:
“This bootcamp is about giving people the space and confidence to explore creative careers, whatever stage they’re at. Whether someone wants to freelance, build a side hustle, or start a business, this course offers the tools, structure, and community to help them move forward.
We’ve seen time and again that creativity is abundant across South Wales, but many people don’t have access to the right support at the right time. This programme is a response to that.”
Bootcamp Details
The USW Creative Bootcamp will run from Tuesday, 23 September to Tuesday, 18 November, with weekly in-person sessions from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Treforest campus’s Engagement Hub.
Participants will gain:
- Access to the wider Welsh ICE community for ongoing support
- Insight into turning creative work into sustainable income
- Confidence to test business ideas without pressure
- Peer support in a collaborative environment
- Practical guidance from experienced facilitators and mentors
📩 How to Apply
Spaces on the bootcamp are limited and expected to fill quickly. To register or find out more, click here!
Or contact the Welsh ICE team at [email protected] / 02920 140 040.
🗓️ Dates: 23rd September – 18th November
⌚ Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm (refreshments provided)
📍 Location: University of South Wales, Treforest Campus, Engagement Hub B Block, Llantwit Road, Pontypridd CF37 1DL
💡 Eligibility: Open to individuals aged 18+
💻 Format: In-person or online (blended learning available)
💰 Cost: Free (Funded by Rhondda Cynon Taff Council)
For more information, or to arrange an interview, you can contact Rachel Harris on 02920 140 040 or email [email protected].
About USW:
Startup Stiwdio is the award-winning graduate entrepreneurship programme run by USW. Established in 2019, it now has 3 dedicated startup incubators across South Wales and is now ranked in the top 10 in the UK for the number of graduate startups it has supported.
Startup Stiwdio now also runs entrepreneurship programmes for local people based in RCT and Newport
https://entrepreneurship.wales/
About Welsh ICE:
Welsh ICE is a vibrant platform for entrepreneurs looking to build resilient businesses. Offering flexible coworking space, tailored training programs, and a collaborative community, Welsh ICE provides the tools needed for growth and success.
Its mission is to empower entrepreneurs -especially in marginalised areas- to become drivers of positive social and economic change.
With a focus on diversity, sustainability, and fun, Welsh ICE nurtures a culture where innovation thrives, and every entrepreneur can unlock their full potential.
Through regular events, workshops, and digital engagement, Welsh ICE fosters a dynamic community that supports entrepreneurs at every stage.
Whether through its physical hub or online platform, Welsh ICE connects people and ideas, building a network of businesses that are equipped to lead, grow, and make an impact.
