Edinburgh Napier University launches creative institute

Edinburgh Napier University has launched a new institute to help support Scotland's £5bn creative industries sector.

The institute, backed by Creative Scotland, will streamline business access to its expertise in areas such as journalism, music and photography.

It is one of nine institutes created by the university to help support key areas of the Scottish economy.

Scotland's creative industries sector supports more than 60,000 jobs.

It has a turnover of £5.2bn and contributes £2.4bn to the value of the Scottish economy.

Prof Robin MacPherson, the institute' s new director, said: "We want the Institute for Creative Industries to be the first port of call for those in the cultural and creative industries when they need practical help with innovation, embracing new technologies or reaching new audiences.

"Our aim is to work in partnership with local, national and international public bodies to enhance creative industries policy and business support.''

The institute is already working on a number of Scottish Funding Council-backed innovation projects, from helping a design company turn leftover whisky barrels into furniture and display products to building an interactive web presence for an independent TV company.

Andrew Dixon, chief executive of Creative Scotland, said: "Creative Scotland's role in the creative industries is to provide research, intelligence, advocacy and to contribute to policy development.

"This new institute will be a valuable asset for the whole country."

He added: "Our strong links with Edinburgh Napier University and the wider higher education sector will help us attract, develop and retain creative talent, as well as supporting individuals and companies reach their full economic potential.

"Scotland's creative industries make an essential contribution to Scotland's economy and our international profile as a creative nation."