Jump to content

Elevate
creative careers
programme

Building a sustainable creative career online and in your time.

Elevate Update

Elevate is currently taking a short break but will be back before you know it!

For further information, please find our official statement here.

Funded by the Ministry of Social Development, the Creative Career Service was a pilot that started in 2021 and ran through to 30th June 2024.

We acknowledge that Elevate has supported many artists through it’s time and the valuable resources it has provided.

Elevate will be back in a slightly different format but we are dedicated to ensuring our Waikato creatives are supported in creating a sustainable career.

Our website will be updated once Elevate is ready to go so keep a look out!

About Elevate

Elevate is designed to help you unlock the skills you need to build a sustainable creative career. It is not about telling you how to do your creative practice. Instead, it is about filling in the gaps.

This free programme offers guidance on the nitty-gritty, like:

  • Goal setting
  • Time management
  • Procrastination and avoidance
  • Funding
  • Tax
  • Promotion

and so much more.

Think of this as the tools you never knew you needed!

How does it work?

We understand what it is like to be creatives, so we know that time and travel can be difficult. Good news!

Elevate works around your schedule by being fully digital and online, ensuring that your location and availability is never a barrier. You will have access to video content, resources and our team to help guide you.

Criteria

  • Self-motivated to create a sustainable creative career
  • Are Waikato based
  • Aged between 18-64
  • Have experience, a tertiary qualification, or a demonstrated commitment to your creative practice
  • Are eligible to work in Aotearoa

Available to: Visual and performing arts, craft & object, literature & writing, theatre, circus, fringe, dance, film, television, media, music and production, fashion, jewellery, Nga toi Māori, Pasifika, community and cultural arts, as well as education, commercial arts, tattooing, illustration, architecture, design, production, editing, direction and management, and more.

Expectations

  • Fill out the application form
  • Have your suitability interview
  • Create your PDP (Professional Development Plan) with guidance from our team
  • Work through a suite of pre-recorded workshops at home in the best way that fits your schedule
  • Tap into the wealth of knowledge that is our team and other creatives like yourself
  • Help us by contributing to anonymous reporting that helps us to tell better stories of why the creative sector should be invested in
  • Share your journey on social media and tag @creativewaikato so we can celebrate your mahi and milestones

FAQ

Do I have to be Waikato based?

Yes. The region we are contracted to deliver the programme in is the Waikato region. You can see our region here.

Can I still work full-time?

Yes. Whatever your working status (full/part time, contract or unemployed) you can access the full Elevate programme and work it around your unique schedule.

What does it cost?

Nothing. Nada. Zilch. Zero. The Elevate programme is completely free and there are no hidden fees.

How long is the programme?

This can vary between individuals and is guided by our team and your professional development plan. You can see ELEVATE as a part of your continued creative career development journey.

Do I have to come to Kirikiriroa at any stage?

No. The Elevate programme is available entirely online and any physical meet-ups or one-on-one sessions are not compulsory and at the participants discretion.


Supported by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD)

Supported by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD)