Go CV Introduction

Who is it for?

All cultural organisations and freelancers who want to promote their brand to over 67,000 Coventry residents

Go CV is a free scheme for Coventry residents. Those registered can benefit from offers and discounts on events, activities and attractions as well as savings from local businesses. Any business or event is able to partner with GoCV, and attendees will also learn more about free marketing grants that are available until 31 March 2025 to support engagement with Go CV. 


You will learn

  • How the platform can promote your organisation and how you can create offers for Coventry residents
  • About marketing opportunities available for your business or event through Go CV
  • Strategies for using the platform to reach potential customers and audiences
  • How to maximise the platform’s benefits to enhance your organisation’s visibility and outreach

Event details

Dates and times: Two sessions are available:

  • 12 November, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
  • 13 November, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm

Capacity: 50 delegates per session
Venue: Council House, Earl Street, Coventry CV1 5RR

Delivered by Coventry City Council/Go CV

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

Media Coaching

*Unfortunately this course is now full and we cannot accept any further bookings*

Who is it for?

Cultural organisations and creatives who want to improve their ability to communicate their message across media platforms


Coconut Communications will deliver media sessions that will ensure you are confident about giving interviews for TV, radio, print or online. You will become more confident about representing yourself and your organisation or practice, helping you to positively raise the profile of you and your work.

You will learn

  • How to work out the essential questions you should ask before agreeing to any interview
  • How journalists think and what they are looking for
  • How to make journalists more interested in what you have to say
  • How to deal with nerves and handle difficult questions
  • Tactics to help you communicate what you want to say
  • How to make the most of the interview
  • About the importance of body language for TV

Please note only one person per organisation can apply to attend this training.

Event details

Date: Tuesday 26 November
Time: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
Capacity: 6 delegates
Venue: One Friargate, Station Square, Coventry CV1 2GT

Delivered by Coconut Communications

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

Essentials in Fundraising

*Unfortunately this course is now full and we cannot accept any further bookings*

Who is it for?

This course is ideal for individuals who are new to arts fundraising or those with fundraising experience but would like to expand on their knowledge.

Recommendation: We encourage those who apply for this course to also consider the policy training courses delivered by Artswork.


You will learn

  • The importance of creating an effective fundraising case
  • Different kinds of fundraising streams from trusts and foundations to individuals, corporates and statutory income
  • Where to best focus your time to get the most effective fundraising return for your organisation
  • Top tips for bid writing and how to undertake effective fundraising research
  • How to approach your fundraising ethically
  • The latest trends in fundraising

Event details

Date: Tuesday 26 November
Time: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Capacity: 20 delegates
Venue: Online

Delivered by Arts Fundraising & Philanthropy

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

Essentials in Application Writing

*Unfortunately this course is now full and we cannot accept any further bookings*

Who is it for?

This course is aimed at people wishing to learn more about and develop practical skills in fundraising from trusts, grants and foundations.

This is an introduction to intermediate level, so come along if you know a little bit and would like to know more or if fundraising from trusts is new to you. You will explore key skills needed to write strong applications and to successfully secure funding from trusts and foundations. You will have the chance to put your new skills into practice so come along with a project in mind.


You will learn

  • To “make the case”
  • About language tips to strengthen proposals
  • Budgeting for proposals
  • About the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in proposal development
  • How to incorporate effective evaluation for impact assessment
  • How trusts and foundations assess proposals
  • Methods for researching potential funders

Event details

Date: Tuesday 19 November
Time: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Capacity: 20 delegates
Venue: Belgrade Theatre, Corporation Street, Coventry CV1 1GS

Delivered by Arts Fundraising & Philanthropy

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

Essentials in Corporate Fundraising

*Unfortunately this course is now full and we cannot accept any further bookings*

Who is it for?

This course is for people who want to understand more about how to raise money from corporates.

The course is excellent as an induction tool for new fundraisers and those with little to no experience in corporate fundraising.


Recommendation: We encourage those who apply for this course to also consider the policy training courses delivered by Artswork.


You will learn

  • The different ways to engage companies as part of your fundraising portfolio
  • What companies are interested in when it comes to sponsorship or corporate social responsibility (CSR)
  • The language skills required to attract and sell to businesses
  • How to identify your assets and create a vibrant proposal
  • Further resources to generate ideas

Event details

Date: Wednesday 11 December
Time: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Capacity: 20 delegates
Venue: Online

Delivered by Arts Fundraising & Philanthropy

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

Safeguarding for the Cultural Sector

Who is it for?

Any cultural organisation or freelance artist who works with participants and wants to understand the importance of safeguarding, to support you in developing a safeguarding policy.

This session will provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of safeguarding responsibilities within the cultural sector


You will learn

  • How to recognise the signs of abuse
  • Understanding the legislative framework for safeguarding
  • Practical steps for implementing safeguarding policies and procedures
  • Specific safeguarding challenges in museums, galleries, and heritage sites
  • How to manage interactions with vulnerable groups
  • How to equip participants with tools and knowledge to create a safe environment for visitors and staff

Event details

Date: Friday 6 December
Time: 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Capacity: 25 delegates
Venue: Online

Delivered by Artswork

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

Equality and Diversity in the Cultural Sector

Who is it for?

Any cultural organisations or freelance artist who wants to understand the importance of equality and diversity and how this knowledge can positively impact their organisation and practice.

This session aims to foster an inclusive workplace culture by equipping participants with a deep understanding of equality and diversity principles, and will support the development of equality policies.


You will learn

  • Essential legislative requirements including the Equality Act 2010
  • Application of equality principles within the cultural sector
  • How to address unconscious bias in the workplace
  • Promoting equal opportunities within cultural institutions
  • How to create an inclusive environment that reflects community diversity
  • How to identify and overcome barriers to inclusivity
  • Strategies for making working practices more accessible and welcoming

Event details

Date: Friday 29 November
Time: 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Capacity: 25 delegates
Venue: Online

Delivered by Artswork

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

Health and Safety in the Cultural Sector

Who is it for?

Any cultural organisation or freelance artist who wants to have a comprehensive understanding of key health and safety regulations and how this informs their practice.

This session will provide a thorough overview of health and safety responsibilities specific to the cultural sector, and support the development of health and safety policies.


You will learn

  • Key health and safety regulations relevant to the sector
  • How to conduct risk assessments and manage hazards in public spaces
  • How to ensure the safety of both staff and visitors
  • Practical steps for preventing accidents
  • How to ensure compliance with health and safety standards
  • How to implement effective health and safety practices in the workplace

Event details

Date: Friday 13 December
Time: 9:30 am to 12:30 pm
Capacity: 25 delegates
Venue: Online

Delivered by Artswork

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

What Kind of Creative Freelancer Are You?

*Unfortunately this course is now full and we cannot accept any further bookings*

Who is it for?

This event is designed for freelancers in the creative and cultural industries.

This is a great opportunity for freelancers to utilise networking opportunities and take advantage of the chance to meet key staff from Coventry University who are involved in
the creative industries. Refreshments will be provided.


You will learn

  • About various freelance practices and their value in economic, cultural, and social contexts
  • How to leverage freelance understanding to optimise opportunities
  • Strategies for expanding professional networks
  • Techniques to connect with new collaborators, funders, and audiences

Event details

Date: Thursday 14 November
Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
Capacity: 20 delegates
Venue: Delia Derbyshire Building, Coventry University, Cox Street, Coventry CV1 5PH

Delivered by Coventry University

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

An Introduction to Creative Technology for Cultural and Creative Industries

*Unfortunately this course is now full and we cannot accept any further bookings*

Who is it for?

This session is designed for professionals in the cultural and creative industries who are new to creative technology.

Get to grips with ever-evolving technology and its connection to arts, culture and creative industries. Learn how this can be applied to your work.


You will learn

  • Key terminology and concepts of emerging technologies like AI, AR, VR, and haptics
  • Real-world applications of these technologies
  • How to integrate emerging technologies into your creative practice and dissemination
  • Ethical considerations and the role of EDI in creative technology

Event details

Date: Wednesday 20 November
Time: 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Capacity: 20 delegates
Venue: Online

Delivered by Coventry University

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

An Introduction to Research Skills for Cultural and Creative Industries

*Unfortunately this course is now full and we cannot accept any further bookings*

Who is it for?

This online session is tailored for professionals in the cultural and creative industries who are looking to enhance their ability to research and evaluate aspects of their practice.

Good research skills underpin a great project and can unlock funding opportunities. This is a great opportunity to learn and enhance these skills.


You will learn

  • How to define research or evaluation questions
  • How to determine the best approach for research and evaluation
  • To understand the value of qualitative and quantitative data
  • Effective use of research findings
  • About key topics such as ethics and GDPR in research
  • About useful sources and frameworks for creative practitioners

Event details

Date: Thursday 21 November
Time: 10:00 am to 11:00 am
Capacity: 20 delegates
Venue: Online

Delivered by Coventry University

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

The Small Scale Development Programme

*Unfortunately this course is now full and we cannot accept any further bookings*

Who is it for?

This programme is designed specifically for leaders of small cultural organisations.

Leaders of small cultural organisations can have many competing demands and this programme will support you in your role. It will help you reach and engage more people more often, realise your ambitions and drive a successful future.


You will learn

  • How to define your organisation’s vision and goals
  • How to develop a clearer understanding of your current approach to audiences
  • How to make marketing a key part of your strategic planning

Module 1: Vision, Purpose and Brand

Monday 11 November
Understand what a vision is, how it shapes your purpose and relates to your brand. You will look at how your brand underpins everything from your online tone of voice to the strategic decisions you make.

Module 2: Understanding Audiences

Monday 18 November
You will gain the knowledge and tools you need to understand your audiences and who your potential audiences are. You’ll use tools and frameworks to support your exploration of your audiences and what motivates them.

Module 3: Developing Marketing Strategies

Monday 25 November
Start to use frameworks such as SWOT and TOWS to take your planning forward. You’ll have the opportunity to put these into action and test what works for you.

Module 4: Marketing Communications and Evaluation

Monday 2 December
Learn the essentials of evaluation, measurement and what that means. Understand how to craft excellent messages that resonate with your audiences, which communication channels are best for you, copywriting tips and useful models to frame your communications.

Participant Presentations

Monday 9 December
In the final session you’ll have the opportunity to share your marketing strategy, your process and what’s resonated for you.


Event details

Time: All modules 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
Capacity: 10 delegates
Venue: Online

Delegates are required to attend all modules to access this programme.

Delivered by Arts Marketing Association

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

How the Cultural Place Profiler and Place-based Data Can Support Your Practice

*Unfortunately this course is now full and we cannot accept any further bookings*

Who is it for?

This session is aimed at individuals and organisations who are required to demonstrate evidence of need when applying for funding or those who are seeking best ways to target their work to generate maximum impact.

Delivered across three sections, this session is designed to empower you with the tools and insights needed to harness place-based data for maximum impact.

This is a hands-on session and it is advisable to bring a laptop or tablet with you to access the tools as they are being demonstrated.


You will learn

  • How to use the Coventry Cultural Place Profiler to shape your approach and to benefit residents
  • How to utilise local data to create impact within your organisation
  • About national datasets and resources to strengthen your case for support and funding applications
  • About examples of successful funding applications using place-based data

Event details

Date: Thursday 28 November
Time: 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm
Capacity: 20 delegates
Venue: Belgrade Theatre, Belgrade Square, Corporation Street CV1 1GS

Delivered by Warwick Business School (University of Warwick)

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

Can being a Co-op Support Your Creativity?

Who is it for?

Freelancers and small businesses in the creative and cultural sector

A large proportion of people working in the creative and cultural are freelancers or small businesses.  Forming a co-op with other creatives can be a way of doing your own work without being on your own. There is evidence that worker and employee-owned businesses are more productive and resilient than hierarchical organisations.


You will learn

  • What a co-op is and how they work
  • How the different types of co-ops can support creatives
  • Ways the co-op approach improves efficiency, transparency and equity
  • About free, bespoke consultancy for creatives interested in forming a co-op

Event details

Date: Tuesday 3 December
Time: 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Capacity: 14 delegates
Venue: Council House, Earl Street, Coventry CV1 5RR

Delivered by West Midlands Ownership Hub

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].

Who Could Own My Business After Me?

Who is it for?

Founders of creative businesses and arts organisations

Many organisations are set up by someone with a great creative vision that inspires those who work in it. But what happens when the founder needs to step back? Who can own the business next. It’s never to early to start on your plan.


You will learn

  • When to start succession planning
  • What the different options are
  • Where to go for further funded support

Event details

Date: Tuesday 3 December
Time: 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm
Capacity: 14 delegates
Venue: Council House Earl Street, Coventry CV1 5RR

Delivered by West Midlands Ownership Hub

See the full list of courses on offer [https://www.coventry.gov.uk/businessbooster].