15 | Q1 2020 Create is a not-for-profit organisation with Local Enterprise status, building a thriving business community in south east Edinburgh. Chief Executive, Sharron Stanton, tells us about the firm. Award-winning property company, Create, is based in the south side of Edinburgh and currently has 62 properties, of which it owns 50%. The firm has been operating as a social enterprise in the Craigmillar area of the city for more than 20 years. Sharron embellishes on what the company has to offer. “Here at Create, our mission is to be recognised as a premier, affordable property brand in the commercial market for pre-starts and SMEs in Edinburgh and differentiate Create as an affordable provider of commercial property who also provides help to early start and growing business in the shape of our wider business services support programme and working with our tenants as an important enabler of local employment opportunities.” “We have a proven track record as a successful commercial property management company with an extensive portfolio of business units to suit young start-ups as well as established enterprises. However, our work doesn’t stop there. We also offer practical and proactive support for small businesses and individuals, enabling them to achieve their ambitions and sometimes radically change lives through the setting up of a viable business. The origins of Create lie in the Craigmillar Opportunities Trust, which was set up almost 30 years ago in 1990. Back then, Craigmillar was a deeply deprived area (albeit one with a traditionally strong sense of community) requiring major investment and a radical regeneration programme. The principal aim of the Trust was to stimulate economic growth through the provision of affordable property and workspace and training local people in the skills needed for employment. Neighbourhood trades and businesses were encouraged to establish themselves in the area, boosting the local economy and sowing the seeds of the thriving commercial hub we see today. Sharron continues. “There was another driving force within the organisation, which has strengthened over the decades – the strong support network that forms the backbone of our activity, enabling people to set up and develop their own businesses. “In 2000, the Craigmillar Opportunities Trust changed its name to Create and three years later achieved Local Enterprise status. Creating Opportunities Dec19093 “By 2009 Create’s remit had expanded to deliver services across Edinburgh and further afield, diversifying its range of services to include the introduction of a variety of business consultancy and project management services, as well as economic, social inclusion and environmental projects.” Recently crowned Best Independent Social Enterprise 2019, Sharon describes how it felt to win such as accolade and what the future holds for Create. “This award is a fantastic achievement and is a great testament to all the hard work of our staff and directors as our culture is one of development of staff and team working. “With regards to the future, we are looking to secure more premises to enable small business growth within the economy.” Contact Details Contact: Sharron Stanton Company: Create Address: 40 Peffer Place, Edinburgh EH16 4BB Telephone: 01316618888 Website: www.createbusinessproperties.com
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