South East Creative Economy Network (SECEN)

The South East Creative Economy Network (SECEN) works to accelerate growth in the digital, creative and cultural sector. It brings together local authorities, creative businesses and education bodies across the South East LEP area.

SECEN is an open network for people working in the sector, with opportunities to join meetings, connect with partners and support practical initiatives that help the region’s creative economy grow.

Create South East, which launched in January 2023 and ended in March 2026, has now completed its investment-readiness programme for high-growth creative businesses across Essex, Kent, East Sussex and West Sussex. SECEN continues as the broader regional network for creative economy activity.

SECEN is most relevant for creative and cultural organisations that want to understand the wider South East ecosystem. It is useful for policy, collaboration, evidence, sector development and visibility, particularly where creative businesses need to connect beyond one town or one discipline.