Bluestreak Arts celebrate Northern Lights’ Business of the Month award

A creative arts company wins Business of the Month from Northern Lights.

Strengthening business relationships and successful funding applications have enabled them to increase their workforce, broaden their experience and develop their appeal to a wider range of individuals and social groups.

After graduating from UCLan in 2005, Graham Easterlow set about developing his industry experience which led to him undertaking a diverse range of acting assignments and UK tours.

These experiences provided a platform from which to build upon for the development a business plan.  Supported by a business partner, Bluestreak Arts was established in February 2007, operating as a community engagement and enhancement organisation, delivering dedicated and project specific creative activities throughout the region.

Commenting upon his success, Graham said: “Thanks to the expansion of our creative projects portfolio, we are now engaging with a much wider and diverse range of social groups.  Our work isn’t just with young people anymore but it’s expanded to include mental health services, older adults and black and minority ethic groups, to name but a few.

“After my business partner left in July 2008 for a change in career, I had a decision to make about Bluestreak Arts’ future.  After plenty of reflection on advice from Northern Lights’ mentors, I decided to press ahead with the business where soon after I employed two new team members.

“These two ladies have given me the freedom to network, helping to establish new business relationships, something which would not have been otherwise possible”.

Jenny Shi, lecturer in employability, at UCLan, was on the judging panel.  She said: “Bluestreak Arts’ recent expansion in terms of workforce and relationships with other Media Factory businesses was the main ingredient of their award success.

“Applications for funding have been exceptional, most notably from the ‘Target Well Being Lottery Fund’ recently where over £40,000 was gained.  Well done to Bluestreak Arts and best of luck to them in Northern Lights’ Business of the Year award later this year”.

Graham plans to spend his £250 prize money towards updating his IT facilities and personal development activities for his staff.

24 February 2009