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Vanilla Ink community interest company (CIC) helps to nurture and develop budding jewellers by giving them space and a platform to get their business ideas off the ground.
Now the school has expanded thanks to a £45,000 loan from Social Investment Scotland (SIS), a finance provider that helps charities and social enterprises just like Vanilla Ink.
The funds have ensured the addition of a new purpose-built studio with dedicated teaching space for its 10-month INKubator Programme, as well as two new shared studios which have created room for another 10 benches for local jewellers.
Vanilla Ink, which is based at the Brook Street Studios in the city’s East End, also plans to launch an online learning hub for artists across the world.
A huge focus of the school is about supporting students with any social and economic challenges including mental health and neurodiversity, adapting its teaching methods to suit each individual.
As well as offering a number of courses, from making your own wedding rings to stone setting, Vanilla Ink also rent out spaces to established jewellers who can also work with the students.
Ellie Smith-Barratt, who is the CEO of the enterprise, said: “At Vanilla Ink CIC we not only share our love of jewellery making but aim to inspire and make a positive impact in our communities.
“Our classes provide a form of escapism for people who really need it and we are continuously adapting our practices to nurture the talent that comes through our door.
“The additional workshop benches and online courses will give us the opportunity to share our passion for our craft with more people and continue to embrace our ethos: Educate, Inspire, Empower.
“It’s an exciting time for Vanilla Ink, and we’re thankful for Social Investment Scotland for supporting our growth as a CIC with a passion for supporting our local community.”
Chris Jamieson, head of investments at SIS, added: “We’ve seen the amazing work the school has done, from the impeccable jewellery the students have designed to the number of social initiatives they offer to make a difference for the local community.
“The new workshop benches will ensure more learners can walk away with specialist skills, and the confidence to start their own businesses, as well as providing an additional revenue stream for the organisation.
“We’re looking forward to working with Vanilla Ink as they embark on this next phase of growth and significantly increase their impact within both the local community and wider creative community.”
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