Digital Projectz Limited
Description
Charles Adakwa-Yiadom of Digital Projectz Limited is using technology to support emerging and unsigned music talent.
His M.i.C. (Music in the Community) kiosk provides a simple way for artists from alternative and under-represented genres to distribute their music. Located in busy community settings, the self-service M.i.C. kiosks enable people to legally download music directly to their MP3 player or mobile phone.
"For the UK music scene to thrive, consumers need to be able to find and purchase new music quickly and conveniently. M.i.C. kiosks make it very easy for people to do this in convenient locations, such as shops and leisure centres," says Charles.
Why we funded
Digital Projectz is identifying problems that face consumers and music artists, and responding to them with innovative technological solutions.
NESTA Business Support Manager, Michael Bedward, explains: "The M.i.C. kiosk is a hassle-free way for people to access digital music when they're on the move. Not only does it benefit consumers, it also plays an important role in creating an audience for unsigned artists."
Charles' experience of the music industry, combined with his genuine passion for supporting emerging artists, meant that he was well placed to turn his business idea into a strong commercial proposition.
Impact
Joining the Creative Pioneer programme gave Charles access to business coaching, ongoing mentoring and broad network of contacts, all of which helped him to develop his business idea.
Charles found that the network of support that the programme offered was invaluable. "Discussing my idea with different mentors really encouraged me to consider new ideas and approaches and push my business in other directions," he explains.
The first M.i.C. was installed in January 2007, in the Deal Real hip-hop music and culture store in Carnaby Street, London. March 2007 saw the launch of the second kiosk, in London's Tottenham Green Leisure Centre.
Written: July 2007
Company
Digital Projectz Limited
Individual:
Charles Adakwa-Yiadom
Programme:
Creative Pioneer
Discipline:
Digital music solutions
Location:
London
Funding:
£35,000
Year funded:
2006
Website:
www.digital-projectz.com