Let’s be honest — starting out in the creative industries can be a bit of a mystery. You’ve finished your degree, you're brimming with ideas, but the path ahead feels... foggy. Where do you even begin?
That’s exactly what Edinburgh’s Creative Industries: Pathways to Careers is here to change.
This new pilot programme is led by Creative Edinburgh in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council and local universities and colleges: Edinburgh Napier University, University of Edinburgh, Queen Margaret University and Edinburgh College.
It’s all about helping recent graduates move from study to industry with confidence, support, and real opportunities.
We’ve spent years working with students, freelancers, and creative professionals across the city. We’ve seen the energy and talent — and the frustration. So many grads want to build their careers here but don’t know how to break in. We’re here to fix that.
What’s the plan?
Edinburgh’s Creative Industries: Pathways to Careers is a three-year initiative designed to equip creative graduates with the practical tools, connections, and knowledge they need to succeed in Edinburgh’s thriving but often complex creative landscape.
Whether it’s through mentoring, networking events, hands-on workshops, accessible resource hubs or co-working opportunities, the programme is focused on building bridges between graduates and employers, education and industry, ideas and real-life careers.
We know that Edinburgh is full of brilliant creatives, but talent alone doesn’t guarantee a career. It takes networks, support, confidence, and access to the right opportunities.
Edinburgh’s Creative Industries: Pathways to Careers isn’t just about helping individuals — it’s about strengthening the whole ecosystem. From improving diversity in the sector to creating better links between education and employment, we’re thinking big.
We’re also working with partners like Capital City Partnership, Festivals Edinburgh, and Creative Scotland, exploring ways to connect with local businesses that are actively looking for creative minds.
We’re thinking long-term: this isn’t a quick fix or a one-off workshop. It’s the beginning of a new model for how Edinburgh nurtures and retains creative talent.
How does it work?
In Year One (2025/26), we’re laying the groundwork. That means hiring a Creative Talent Lead, bringing all the partners around the table, doing the research, and designing a programme that actually fits what students and grads need.
In Year Two, we roll things out — the events, the mentoring, the workshops, and the all-important Raise Your Game skills development course. We'll also recruit Creative Talent Ambassadors from each university and college to support the development of the programme and keep things grounded and relevant.
Year Three is all about building on what we’ve learned, expanding the programme, and bringing everyone together for a major Creative Industries Forum. This will be a chance to share insights, celebrate success, and plan what’s next.
What will participants actually get?
Lots. Here’s a taste:
- Small, hands-on workshops with local creatives and professionals
- A 5-week skills development programme for up to 7 students per institution
- Drop-in events (up to 25 a year!) with opportunities to connect and explore
- Opportunity for mentorship by experienced freelancers and industry insiders
- Campus-based events featuring guest speakers, panels and Q&As
- Opportunity for professional development as Creative Ambassador
- A genuine, lasting connection to Edinburgh’s creative community
We estimate that 200–300 students and graduates per university will actively engage with the programme each year.
Let’s build the future — together
This programme is a bold step toward a more connected, inclusive, and thriving creative industry in Edinburgh. We’re creating real pathways — not just career talks and flyers, but practical, human, community-driven support that lasts.
If you’re a student, a recent grad, a creative practitioner, or someone who cares about the future of culture in Edinburgh, this is your invitation to get involved.
To find out more or get involved through Queen Margaret University, please contact John Dean or Alice McGrath.
Ola Wojtkiewicz, Executive Director at Creative Edinburgh
Follow the journey and see what’s next the on the Creative Edinburgh website.
Are you a creative student or recent graduate from Edinburgh College, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh Napier or Edinburgh College of Art? Join the mailing list!
