The Region's Next Digital Millionaire?

THE Northwest has an unparalleled history of technological and televisual innovation: the first computer, the first soap opera, some of the best interactive games were all developed here. That drive for innovation and creativity is set to take another leap forward as Northwest Vision and Media, the film, TV and digital media development agency, launches a series of unique Digital Academies to develop the best innovative digital talent in the region.

"We are extremely excited about the Digital Academies which are a unique venture,” says Lynne McCadden, Managing Director of Northwest Vision and Media. “Not only will they uncover some of the region's top digital talent, but they'll also support the creation of new content production for the media industry.”

The Digital Academies are an intensive three day residential hothouse to be held at the recently opened City Inn Hotel in Manchester city centre. Open to creatives, entrepreneurs and pioneers in the region, the Digital Academies will accelerate new ideas into the marketplace and onto a screen near you.

A panel of judges from ITV, the BBC and Channel 4 will select the ideas to be taken forward, and winners will work with industry experts and the best of the region’s independent production companies – Multi Media Arts, Hat Trick North, Channel M, Centini, and All Out Productions.

Lynne explains: “We have been superbly supported by some of the region’s top producers including Hat Trick North and Channel M, who will be working with us to provide live briefs for the Digital Academy. It'll be a unique partnership of employers and talent that Northwest Vision and Media has been delighted to broker."

Successful candidates will receive professional industry advice and coaching in the application of creative thinking, idea development, pitching and selling. They will have bold ideas and new approaches to creative content.

On the final day everything will be put into practice and the students will pitch their ideas to the commissioners. And that’s not all, up to five of the Digital Academy interns will be funded to continue their work on placement and receive over £2,500 and expert advice to take it to market.

The two Digital Academies will take place in Manchester on:

Weds 18th, Thursday 19th and Friday 20th July
City Inn, Piccadilly Place, Manchester

Weds 25th, Thursday 26th and Friday 27th July
City Inn, Piccadilly Place, Manchester

Anyone can apply at http://www.digitalfuturesnw.com/academies.htm by noon on Wednesday July 4th

For further information please call Lynn Kelly at Northwest Vision and Media 0161 244 4643 or email lynnk@mtnw.co.uk