The creative industries are the fastest growing sector of the UK’s economy. In economic terms they already outperform traditional sectors such as agriculture and car manufacturing. But what are the creative industries, and how are they defined?

Definition

We define the creative industries as those industries which have their origin in individual creativity, skill and talent and which have a potential for wealth and job creation through the generation and exploitation of intellectual property. This includes advertising, architecture, the art and antiques market, crafts, design, designer fashion, film and video, interactive leisure software, music, the performing arts, publishing, software and computer games, television and radio. (c) DCMS 2005

The issue of definition is an important one within the creative sector. There remains much debate about where the boundaries of the creative industries might cross with the cultural industries and the entertainment industry. There is obvious overlap.

In addition the cultural heritage, tourism and museum industries are identified as being closely related to the creative industries; particularly in the provision of services which often fall within the definition of creative industries.

As you can tell, this can lead to confusion as to what is in the creative industries, and what in fact lies within other industries - retail, or leisure and touism for instance.

For the purpose of the delivery of the Creative Launchpad service, we recognise the following sectors as being within the creative industries, with careful consideration of those bordering on other sectors that may put a demand on the creative industries.

Further information can be found on the Creative Industries on our links page.