Business Support Case Study: Studio Bowden
About the business
- Business name: Studio Bowden
- Support programme: Big Ambitions Essentials
- Participant name: David Bowden, Founder and Director
Studio Bowden is a creative duo specialising in graphic design and art direction. For over 20 years David and Hannah have collaborated with founders, destinations and brands to create distinctive visual solutions. Their services include brand identity, creative direction, design consultancy, artwork and production, social content, digital design, packaging design, editorial design, web design and music campaigns.
Why they signed up to the business support programme
Studio Bowden joined the Big Ambitions Essentials programme to gain clarity and direction for their business. With over two decades of creative experience, David and Hannah were operating at half capacity, relying solely on word-of-mouth for new work. They recognised the need for outreach, a clear marketing strategy and a business plan to achieve growth and financial stability.
What support they received
Studio Bowden received tailored guidance focused on marketing and business development. Support included advice on improving their website, client engagement strategy and LinkedIn presence. David was introduced to a marketing Virtual Assistant (VA) to help build a bespoke target list for direct outreach. He also received strategic input from marketing expert Rachael Dines and was offered three training workshops.
How this has helped the business
The support has helped Studio Bowden gain clarity and renewed focus on business growth.
With tailored marketing advice and hands-on support, David now has a clearer understanding of how to position the studio and reach new clients. Working with a marketing VA has improved their outreach efforts, particularly on LinkedIn, and they’ve started building a targeted prospect list. The guidance has shifted their mindset from passive to proactive, leading to two new client wins.
Wider benefits from supporting this business
Helping Studio Bowden has strengthened a skilled, independent, creative business with potential to grow. With the right support they are now more focused and better placed to take on new work, which could lead to more jobs for freelancers and greater visibility for UK design talent. Their success supports the local economy and adds value to the wider creative community.
We joined the Big Ambitions Essentials programme to get clearer on our sales direction, and I’m really happy with how it turned out. The mentor they paired me with was great. It’s already led to new opportunities and helped us feel more confident about promoting the studio. After years of relying on word-of-mouth, we have a clear plan for growth - and a way to talk about what we do that actually feels like us.
David Bowden
Contact
For more information on the business support programmes provided by East Sussex County Council, contact the Economic Development Team.
Economic.Development@eastsussex.gov.uk
Big Ambitions Essentials is a specialist support programme for East Sussex businesses, offering one-to-one support and participation in group-based sessions with expert business advisors. It is fully funded by the UK Government and is delivered by Digital Islands on behalf of East Sussex County Council, who manage and support the programme.
