Create Growth D2 Hub Celebration Event

The Create Growth Celebration Event marks the conclusion of the DCMS-funded Create Growth project and is the Derbyshire D2 Hub celebration for the creatives who have participated locally. This event will bring together creatives, key stakeholders, university representatives and members of the local creative community who have been supported through the project.

The celebration will shine a spotlight on the achievements of local creative talent and showcase the impact of the project across Derbyshire and the wider East Midlands. It will provide an opportunity to come together, reflect on what has been achieved and recognise the creativity, talent and dedication that have made the project a success.

Attendees can expect welcome drinks, opening remarks, a keynote speaker, a panel discussion and audience question and answer session on the theme of what next for the creative industries in the East Midlands, followed by informal networking. This will give guests the chance to hear different perspectives, share ideas and make connections with other creatives and partners.

The event also highlights the collaboration between the University of Derby, Derby City Council, and Derbyshire County Council, alongside the wider project support delivered across the East Midlands. As well as celebrating the end of the project, the event will look ahead to its lasting legacy and the future opportunities, support and funding that can help creative businesses continue to grow.

Panel Q and A

Chair: Samantha Deakin, Head of Enterprise & Entrepreneurship, University of Derby

Professor (Dr.) Rhiannon Jones FRSA, Head of Civic and Communities, University of Derby and Founder of CivicLAB™

Alix Manning-Jones, Director, Culture Derby

Luke Dorian, Fellowship Engagement Manager, The RSA

Agenda (3:00–5:00pm)

3:00 – 3:20 PM: Arrival, welcome drinks, and informal networking
3:20 – 3:25 PM: Welcome and opening remarks
3:25 – 3:40 PM: Keynote speaker
3:40 – 4:15 PM: Panel discussion & audience Q&A – “What next for creative industries in the East Midlands?” (Chair: Samantha Deakin)
4:15 – 5:00 PM: Networking drinks, background music, and event close

Dom Jinks – Keynote for Create Growth Programme Derbyshire

Dom will explore the growing power and potential of the Creative Industries across the East Midlands, highlighting how the region can position itself for the next wave of cultural and economic opportunity. He will also examine how AI is reshaping creative practice — not as a threat, but as a catalyst for new forms of expression, innovation, and audience engagement.

Benefits

Attendees will gain fresh insight into the expanding role of the Creative Industries across the East Midlands, including how the region can harness its talent, identity, and infrastructure to drive future growth. They will also leave with a clearer understanding of how AI is transforming creative practice — opening new possibilities for innovation, collaboration, and audience engagement across the sector.