Twenty young creatives living in and around Manchester are being given the opportunity to join adidas Originals and Factory International via the launch of the Originals Creator Network (OCN) North, on a six-month development opportunity.

OCN North builds on the success of the London Creator Network programme, established to provide opportunities to underrepresented talent within London’s creative scene.

And there’s a good reason for extending the northwards. Research has found the north of England represents just 15% of creative industries employment despite being home to 23% of the British population. 

The programme will therefore “look to provide pathways into the industry for aspiring creatives based in the north without them having to move away from the region”. 

Based at Manchester’s Aviva Studios, home of Factory International, OCN North will deliver creative development and work-based learning opportunities to the 20 chosen cohorts. 

Successful applicants will receive a bursary of £600, mentorship, masterclasses from industry experts, and work experience opportunities with adidas and Factory International, culminating in a creative showcase at Aviva Studios. 

These sessions “hope to provide the participants with the tools they need to establish themselves as creatives and further develop and continue their pathway to working in the creative industries”.

Chris Walsh, VP Brand for North Europe, added: “Launching [this] project is a testament to the strength of the programme and the impact it has made within London’s creative scene over the past three years. 

Together with Factory International, we’re committed to supporting the next generation of emerging creatives in the North of England, creating positive onward journeys for our network by nurturing their talent and equipping them with skills to support their future careers,” 
 
John McGrath, artistic director and chief executive, Factory International, also said: “We believe in the power of the arts to inspire, excite and engage, and also provide the basis for rewarding, life-long careers. We’re committed to making creative skills and opportunities accessible to everyone – from supporting emerging artists to training the next generation of diverse talent.

“Partnering with Adidas on the Originals Creator Network North project is a fantastic opportunity to build on this work and connect with ever wider groups of young creatives.”

Applications for this year’s OCN North are now open via Factory International with the programme set to run from November to April 2025.