ETCH

26/05/2026

Have you heard that there is a whole month of support happening in June for creatives? Check out 'Hartlepool Creative Month'! There are loads of free sessions that you can access!
ETCH will be taking part on the 2nd June for our ETCH meet up ( 10 - 11.30am) and also we are delivering a 2 day accredited course called Creative Lift Off ( 8th & 9th) for those who are thinking about self employment but want to know more. All taking place at The BIS Hartlepool.
Here is the link to find out more and book your sessions!! https://www.investinhartlepool.co.uk/hartlepool-creative-business-month-june-2026/

22/05/2026

22/05/2026

The Majestic - Darlington this morning for our Darlington ETCH meet up! Fabulous venue ( if you haven't been before you MUST check it out).
Thanks to everyone who came, it makes me smile when I see everyone supporting each other 🫶

19/05/2026

Are you thinking of starting a creative business but don't know where to begin?
Do you want to know more about self employment and what it takes to run your own business?

Join the Creative Lift Off ! This 2 day accredited course ( fully funded) will be taking place on the 8th and 9th June at The BIS Hartlepool.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/creative-lift-off-tickets-1988307311693

14/05/2026

Loads of good things happening at The BIS Hartlepool next month for Creative Business Month!!
Check out the schedule and get booked on these FREE sessions!!

Invest Hartlepool is run by the Economic Growth Team within Hartlepool Borough Council, providing assistance to businesses that are starting, growing or relocating in Hartlepool.

07/05/2026

We can't wait for our upcoming ETCH event which is taking place at The Majestic - Darlington. Joining us as guest speaker is The Majestic - Darlington owner Hayley Warters to tell us all about this events space in the heart of Darlington.
Plus, we have some upcoming events that you don't want to miss! We will see you there on Fri, 22nd May ( 10 - 11.30am). FREE to attend!

06/05/2026

🌟Best Creative Business🌟

Are you a creative business in Hartlepool excelling in the local industry?

We are now accepting applications for this category for Hartlepool Business Awards 2026, taking place on Thursday 15th October at Hardwick Hall, Sedgefield.

Thanks to East Screen for sponsoring this category.

You can find more information about the category criteria and how to apply here:

https://www.hartlepoolbusinessforum.co.uk/hartlepool-business-awards/

Closing date for applications 12 noon Tuesday 30th June 2026!

06/05/2026

Hey, where did all the networking go? Is it just me or have networking events got less and less recently? There was a time that you could fill your diary with events and now I am struggling to find any!

Well, good news...ETCH is BACK! Dates are in for our networking meet ups for creatives and we are making changes. One change is that we will be delivering ETCH in new locations! Also, we will be delivering them less often to increase the numbers.
One thing that will NOT be changing is the relaxed space and the friendly atmosphere! So, now is the time to make ETCH part of your networking. Not only is this a great way to expand your contacts but you can access business support too!! Keep a look out!! 👀

27/04/2026

We've got our first free bunting making sessions with Harriet Mee Art next week.

Tuesday 5 May 4.30-7.30pm at Stockton Central Library

Wednesday 6 May 1-4pm at Marske Library

Thursday 7 May 12-2pm at Darlington Library

We'll be using sewing machines in Stockton and Darlington to create book themed bunting and getting creative with fabric paints in Marske. Everyone's welcome and there's no need to book a place. Just bring your imagination!

27/04/2026

We had a great day on Friday at our 'prep training day' for Orange Pip Market. We looked at legal considerations (insurance, GDPR compliance, trading standards, etc.) and everyone left with a completed risk assessment that they can use for any upcoming events.
We aslo looked at displaying effectively so your stall looks engaing and interesting for potential customers, how to engage with the public and overall how to make a success at market events.
We were joined by Orange Pip Market who answered questions about their upcoming 10 year anniversary and how to get involved.

If you missed out don't worry, we have another another opportunity for you! This Friday, 1st May ( 9.30 - 4pm) at Enterprise Made Simple. This relaxed, informative training is fully funded! This is ideal for anyone who has little or no experience in stall events but wants to give it a go!