Bern’s Creative Economy Gets a Boost: A Recent Platform Connecting Talent with Businesses
A new platform, kreativwirtschaft-bern.ch, has launched in Bern, Switzerland, aiming to bridge the gap between local creative professionals and businesses. Initiated by the Hochschule für Künste Bern (HKB), the Schule für Gestaltung Bern/Biel, the Designstiftung Bern and Wirtschaft Stadt Bern, the platform offers a no-fee service for both freelancers and KMUs (small and medium-sized enterprises).
The Rise of Local Creative Hubs
This initiative reflects a growing trend: the development of localized platforms designed to nurture and connect creative economies. Similar platforms are emerging in cities worldwide, recognizing the importance of fostering local talent and keeping economic value within the region. The core promise of kreativwirtschaft-bern.ch is simple – free visibility for creatives and easy access to talent for businesses.
Creative professionals in the Bern area can showcase their portfolios at no cost, opening doors to new local opportunities. Businesses can quickly identify and connect with suitable creative partners for a range of services, including branding, web design, film production, animation, music, and event planning.
Addressing a Visibility Gap
The platform’s creators identified a key challenge: despite the significant contribution of the creative sector as an innovation driver, it often lacks visibility. Hansmartin Amrein of Wirtschaft Stadt Bern describes the platform as a “low-threshold bridge” between the creative community and the business world, designed to highlight local talent and retain economic benefits within the region.
Platform Design and Authenticity
Studio Jung, led by Pascal Perrelet and Noël Gygax, designed the platform. A conscious decision was made to avoid stock photography, opting instead for original images featuring real Bern-based creatives. Christian Klinner of Ron Orp Bern oversaw the website’s architecture. This focus on authenticity aims to build trust and showcase the genuine talent within the Bern creative scene.
Future Trends in Creative Economy Platforms
Hyper-Localization and Niche Specialization
We can expect to see more platforms like kreativwirtschaft-bern.ch emerge, but with an increasing focus on hyper-localization and niche specialization. Instead of broad creative categories, platforms may cater to specific industries (e.g., sustainable fashion, immersive gaming) or geographic areas within a city.
Integration with AI and Automation
Artificial intelligence (AI) will likely play a larger role in matching creatives with projects. AI-powered tools could analyze project briefs and automatically suggest suitable freelancers based on skills, style, and availability. Automation could also streamline administrative tasks like invoicing and contract management.
The Metaverse and Virtual Collaboration
The metaverse presents new opportunities for creative professionals and platforms. Virtual showrooms, collaborative design spaces, and virtual events could become commonplace, allowing creatives to showcase their operate and connect with clients in immersive environments.
Emphasis on Skills Development and Training
Platforms may increasingly integrate skills development and training resources. This could include online courses, workshops, and mentorship programs designed to help creatives stay ahead of the curve and adapt to evolving industry demands.
FAQ
Q: Is kreativwirtschaft-bern.ch only for businesses in the city of Bern?
A: The platform focuses on the greater Bern area, serving KMUs and creatives throughout the region.
Q: What types of creative services are listed on the platform?
A: A wide range, including branding, web design, film, animation, music, and live events.
Q: Is there a cost to use the platform?
A: No, it is free for both freelancers and businesses.
Q: Who created the platform?
A: It was initiated by the Hochschule für Künste Bern (HKB), the Schule für Gestaltung Bern/Biel, the Designstiftung Bern and Wirtschaft Stadt Bern.
Did you know? The creative industries contribute significantly to economic growth and job creation, often exceeding the impact of more traditional sectors.
Pro Tip: When creating your portfolio for a platform like this, focus on showcasing your best work and clearly articulating your unique skills and value proposition.
Want to learn more about supporting local businesses and creative talent? Explore other initiatives in the Bern region and share your thoughts in the comments below!
