FLEDGLING DESIGN AND MUSIC BUSINESS TAKES OFF

A graphic design and music promotion team has become the first fledgling business to take advantage of start-up units in the new Halifax Creative & Conservation Skills Centre. The skills centre, based at Calderdale College in Francis Street, was opened by the Duke of York in March last year and funded by Action Halifax.

“A central plan in building the new centre was to provide office space to encourage new businesses, particularly among our former students”, said Joanne Patrickson, head of external funding at Calderdale College. “We’re delighted that this is exactly what has happened.”

P-Jam, founded by former Calderdale College graphic design students Phil Whitehead and Martin Pitts, moves into its new premises this week. The college has also been able to help with discounted computers and a telephone line. As part of the contract, new businesses must tie in with Business Link and P-Jam has taken advantage of its ‘Into Business Scheme’ which provides a secure financial base for the first six months of a new business.

Phil Whitehead, 37 and from Savile Park, was part of successful local band “Blessed Rain”, before studying photography and graphic design at the college, and plans to use his experience to promote bands as well as offering graphic design services. “We were signed up three times and playing gigs in New York when our record company was sold off”, said Phil. We weren’t in a position to manage ourselves then but we want to use our knowledge now to manage and promote local talent. We’re currently working with local band Calusan”.

Partner Martin Pitts, 24 and from Sowerby Bridge said “We’ve already completed a number of corporate identity projects for local companies, providing logos, letterheads and business cards, and are hoping to build the business up through contacts and word of mouth.”

P-Jam is the first of four businesses to move into the start-up units which will be full by June. A video production company, run by former Calderdale College media studies students, will be moving next door, along with an outreach company providing support to people with learning difficulties and a business importing goods from China.

“We’re looking forward to seeing these businesses take off and wish them every success”, said Joanne Patrickson.