The IPA’s Creative Pioneers initiative, designed to nuture young talent in the digital and creative sectors, has handed work opportunities and business support to 87 people.
Backed by the Government and Metro newspaper, the original plan was to award 300 young people the opportunity to work within creative media businesses across the UK. But after a four-month process which generated 948 applications, 87 people have finally been selected.
Over 100 businesses are involved, from advertising, animation, film, gaming, interactive media, mobile entertainment, publishing and web design including Aardman Animation, Facebook, Twitter, Zynga, Saatchi & Saatchi, Sapient Nitro, Omnicom Media Group and Spotify.
Some 20% have been offered a three-month paid work placement; 21% a one-year paid internship in a Government and Creative Skillset-backed scheme, and 59% have been offered business support tailored to their individual needs. The winners’ ages range from 16 to 46 years old, with an average age of 24.
Culture Minister Ed Vaizey said: “To stimulate growth in the economy it is essential to help match employers with Britain’s incredible pool of talent, so this brilliant approach is exactly the sort of thing that we need to see.
“Life-changing opportunities are on offer, and it’s a win-win situation for both successful candidates and those businesses offering to kick-start great careers.”
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