Creative UK and Barclays Join Forces to Supercharge Screen Businesses

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Last updated: September 7, 2026

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Creative UK launches Barclays-sponsored growth program for screen businesses

Scaling Success: Creative UK Unveils ‘Fast Forward’ Accelerator for Screen Industries

Creative UK, the primary membership organization dedicated to the nation’s cultural and creative sectors, has officially introduced “Fast Forward.” This specialized business growth initiative aims to provide screen-based enterprises with the tools necessary for long-term, sustainable expansion.

A Strategic Boost for Established Creative Firms

Supported by BFI National Lottery funding and sponsored by Barclays, the program targets businesses that have already moved past the startup phase. It is specifically tailored for established entities operating within the film, television, and gaming sectors, as well as those providing essential services to these industries.

With the creative economy contributing over £100 billion to the UK economy annually, initiatives like Fast Forward are vital for maintaining this momentum. By focusing on scaling, the program addresses the “growth gap” often experienced by mid-sized creative firms that struggle to transition from successful projects to sustainable, large-scale operations.

The Core Methodology: Mentorship and Peer Collaboration

Rather than relying on generic business advice, Fast Forward utilizes a multifaceted approach. The curriculum integrates interactive workshops, collaborative peer-to-peer learning, and, most importantly, a bespoke mentorship model.

Participants will be paired with seasoned industry experts who provide guidance on the practical, day-to-day hurdles of running a creative business. This hands-on support is designed to help leaders navigate complex obstacles, such as:

* Strategic Scaling: Refining long-term business roadmaps and entering untapped international markets.
* Operational Resilience: Strengthening internal processes and optimizing team structures.
* Financial Health: Navigating the complexities of raising capital and sophisticated financial planning.
* Leadership Development: Enhancing governance and fostering a strong company culture.

Expert Guidance from Industry Veterans

The program’s strength lies in its diverse roster of mentors, each bringing specialized expertise to the table. The current lineup includes:

* Aimee Bateman: Specializing in recruitment, organizational values, and people management.
* Cecilia Thirlway: Focusing on brand identity and strategic communications.
* Martin Backlund: Providing insights into content distribution, investment, and media strategy.
* Sandra Tusin: Offering expertise in financial forecasting and investment readiness.
* Tim McSweeney: Driving innovation and operational efficiency.
* Travis Baxter: Advising on revenue growth and corporate governance.

Built on Proven Experience

“Fast Forward is the culmination of years of insights gained from supporting hundreds of screen-based businesses,” explained Kate Sanders, Senior Program Manager at Creative Enterprise. By synthesizing these real-world lessons, the program offers a targeted intervention for companies looking to solidify their market position.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve-evidenced by major industry shifts like the recent acquisition of Metacore by Supercell-the need for agile, well-supported creative businesses has never been greater. Fast Forward aims to ensure that UK-based firms remain at the forefront of this global competition.