The Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) will launch the second phase of the Torres Strait Regional Economic Investment Strategy (REIS) for Arts and Creative Industries on 3 July 2017.

The REIS Arts and Creative Industries Business Growth Package (BGP), is intended to support Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal entrepreneurs or businesses in the Torres Strait Region to start or grow a commercially-viable business.

This targeted package is designed to support Torres Strait businesses that rely on creativity as their primary source of value, this includes those seeking to build a business based on traditional arts and culture, as well as those looking to develop other creative businesses.

The Arts and Creative Industries includes six main segments of creative commercial activity, including music, visual and performing arts; film, TV and radio; writing and publishing; software and digital content; advertising and marketing; architecture and design.

TSRA Chairperson, Mr Napau Pedro Stephen AM, said delivering strategic, informed and targeted assistance to businesses in the Torres Strait region is one of the key priorities for the organisation.

“Following the official launch, the TSRA have been working to ensure all aspects of the REIS are progressing, delivering the Fisheries BGP as the first phase of the REIS implementation in 2016 and 2017,” Mr Stephen said.

“The continued rollout of the REIS is a priority for the TSRA in 2017 and 2018. The second round of applications continues the commitment of the TSRA to provide opportunities for the local business community to access assistance and to foster economic development in the region through business success and jobs.

“The focus of phase two, the Arts and Creative Industries BGP, is broader than traditional art, culture and heritage and its focus is on ‘for-profit’ commercial business opportunities in all areas of the Arts and Creative Industries. The TSRA are expanding this to help drive the industry.”

Applications will open on 3 July 2017 and will remain open until otherwise advised.All enquiries relating to the Business Growth Package (Arts & Creative Industries) Funding or questions about the application process should be emailed to economic@tsra.gov.au.