Quick update on what we've been up to...

Here's an overview of what we've been up to on behalf of the digital media sector in Sussex over the last couple of months. As ever, if you want more information on any of these projects, just call us on 01273 692888, email info@wiredsussex.com or signup to our twitter feed twitter.com/wiredsussex, facebook site http://www.facebook.com/wired.sussex and newsletter www.wiredsussex.com/subscribe.asp

• Helped companies access the right staff with the right skills:

o Maintained the Wired Sussex online recruitment tool: the Jobs Board
o Launched and managed the Sussex Internship Programme 2009
o Developed new digital media course elements for University of Brighton undergraduate programmes
o Managed the Digital Media Lecturers Forum to take current sector knowledge direct to educators
o Took part in the regional Skills Fair for science and technology graduates
o Chaired the South East Media Network Skills Group

• Promoted our sector generally and member companies individually:

o Advised Brighton Council, the Regional Development Authority and others on digital media inward investment for Brighton
o Represented Brighton at the Digital Cities Conference in Paris
o Capitalised on media interest in Brighton due to the ‘Supercity’ report, including appearing on the Politics Show, BBC Radio, in the Argus, etc
o Placed in the Argus various interviews and stories about member companies including Hall Creative Design, Junction 44, Believe Eve, Sasha Arts and Geographic Design.
o Represented our sector at the Economic Forum, the Chamber of Commerce, the Business Lifebelt event and other local / regional business events.

• Supported and advised individual members in a series of 1-2-1 meetings:

o Provided individual advice and support to over 50 pre-start-up, start-up and growing member companies over the past 3 months on a wide range of issues

• Provided opportunities for members to access new clients or additional funding:

o Run the Crowds and Communities research initiative with the University of Sussex and member companies
o Developed a training programme ‘digital media for non-digital businesses’ to roll out across South East.

• Helped Member Companies with workspace issues:

o Researched managed workspaces for our sector including visiting Workstation in Sheffield, the digital media centre in Barnsley and others.
o Developed initial proposals to renovate and redevelop New England House and discussed them with B&HCC.
o Worked to place member companies in Black Lion Street offices.