ART Venture - a unique acceleration programme for creative entrepreneurs and producers working in Auckland's creative sector - is on the lookout for candidates for its 2008 intake.

Now in its second year, ART Venture is firmly establishing itself as a vital business development programme for experienced creative entrepreneurs who are serious about accelerating their skills, projects and businesses.ART Venture - a unique acceleration programme for creative entrepreneurs and producers working in Auckland's creative sector - is on the lookout for candidates for its 2008 intake.

Now in its second year, ART Venture is firmly establishing itself as a vital business development programme for experienced creative entrepreneurs who are serious about accelerating their skills, projects and businesses."We have been hugely impressed by the progress of the high-achieving individuals that are mid-way through the 2007 programme. And the programme has really brought the creative sector to the attention of the Auckland business community," says programme director Elisabeth Vaneveld.

The 2007 list includes Rodney District choreographer and director Shona McCullagh, who was recently awarded a Choreography Media Honour.

"ART Venture came at a key time for Shona. We picked up on her plans to develop a new multi-media and movement dance education product that has no shortage of potential."

Meanwhile, this is a great chance for a fresh group of people to apply for the 2008 programme, which takes place from February to December 2008.

"It's really important to spread the word and get the right people in the know," says Vaneveld.

With ART Venture '08, up to ten successful participants will be able to access the resources they need to meet their strategic business aspirations and goals.

Participants get direct access to a tailored personal approach that features high-quality workshops, a mentoring programme, global networking and learning, personal, career and business development and future growth strategies.

ART Venture is targeted at experienced creative entrepreneurs who can demonstrate a track record of work in the Auckland City region's creative sector. The programme is funded by ART (Arts Regional Trust: Te Taumata Toi-a-iwi), an arts and creative industries development agency.

Application submissions are due by Friday 10 August 2007. To read more about ART Venture, and to download an information pack, visit www.artsregionaltrust.org.nz.

3/7/07