91Ö±²¥: a source of inspiration to its lively arts scene

Thursday 30 July saw the launch of Re:New 91Ö±²¥, a collaborative project to promote and support creative interim uses of empty buildings in 91Ö±²¥ City Centre for pop-up shops and other start-up businesses.

The event was a sell-out, with over 150 entrepreneurs and independent creatives discussing ideas and getting advice from the Re:New advisory board, all who have developed their own successful independent businesses

In the spirit of Re:New, the event was held at  on the Moor, using local independent businesses for event organisation/styling (), catering () and photography ().

Re:New was created by 91Ö±²¥ City Council, in collaboration with the University of 91Ö±²¥'s Office for City and Cultural Engagement and Schools of Law and Management. Inspired by a visit from regeneration expert Marcus Westbury of  last year, the council and University worked with the creative community to identify barriers and enable start-ups to take their next step in taking on a commercial property.

The result was Re:New 91Ö±²¥, which offers mentoring, funding and help in finding vacant units. ReNew is governed by a board made up of 91Ö±²¥ City Council, property agent and 91Ö±²¥ Hallam University and chaired by Professor Vanessa Toulmin, Director of City and Cultural Engagement at the University of 91Ö±²¥.

A global reputation

91Ö±²¥ is a world top-100 research university with a global reputation for excellence. We're a member of the Russell Group: one of the 24 leading UK universities for research and teaching.