The Grenada Office of Creative Affairs is proud to announce the launch of the National Creative & Cultural Industries Strategy Project, which will establish a comprehensive strategic plan and policy framework for Grenada’s creative sector.
The two-phase strategy project is being led by Tom Fleming Creative Consultancy (TFCC), a global authority on culture and creative industries, in close collaboration with GOCA. The project’s first phase, which rolled out in September, is a situational analysis of Grenada’s cultural and creative industries. The research team has been engaging key stakeholders and creative practitioners to gather critical data about the current state of Grenada’s cultural and creative industries. So far, several stakeholders and registered creatives in GOCA’s database have shared their insights and perspectives through a detailed research survey, one-on-one interviews and focus groups. Phase Two of the project will build upon the data from Phase One to develop a strategic plan for Grenada’s Creative Economy that seeks to establish Grenada as a major hub for creative industries, renowned regionally and globally.
“The National Creative & Cultural Industries Strategy Project is a significant project for Grenada, one that involves the participation of all stakeholders from the financial institutions to the educational institutions and the creatives themselves,” explains Orlando Romain, Advisor w.r.f. the Creative Economy. “The Government of Grenada sees the cultural and creative sector as an important one, not only for the creation of many employment and economic opportunities, but also for its importance from a social standpoint. We look forward to the findings and outputs of this research and strategy.”
Dr. Tom Fleming, TFCC Director, was in Grenada to lead the focus groups and workshops. On October 4th, Dr. Fleming facilitated two sessions: the first on Evidence and Data Planning and the second on Investment Readiness with financial institutions and investment agencies. On October 7th, Dr. Fleming led the focus groups with different creative sectors – Film & Multimedia, Culinary Arts, Music, Performing Arts, Dance, Theatre, Visual Arts, Design, Literature & Publishing, and Craft. Additionally, Dr. Fleming met with Grenada’s UNESCO representative, Secretary General Kisha Gellineau and members of the National Creative & Cultural Industries Strategy Project Steering Committee.
Commenting on his experience in Grenada so far, Dr. Fleming said, “it has been incredibly fascinating to meet some amazing talents and really engaging people who are committed to building the cultural and creative economy of Grenada and its sister isles. There is so much potential here. There are unique stories to be told and there is a rich and engaging history. There are some dynamic contemporary voices. If we get the package right, if we support talent, if we unblock the things that are making it difficult for talent to thrive, if we provide the kind of enabling conditions in skills, in finance, in infrastructure and in vision, then we can make it happen.”
The Grenada Office of Creative Affairs (GOCA), a division of the Ministry of Tourism, the Creative Economy and Culture, is responsible for creating a favourable environment for the development of the country’s cultural and creative industries. Over the past year, GOCA has spearheaded multiple initiatives with a strategic focus on financing, capacity building and policy development. These initiatives include the Cultural and Creative Industries Business Development Fund (BDF), Music Producers Project, specialized courses offered at T.A. Marryshow Community College, and now, the National Creative & Cultural Industries Strategy Project.
