Freeway IP
Hive helps TV professionals zoom in on business success.
Being part of The Hive has helped bring extra focus to creative video production company Freeway IP in those all-important first years of operation.
Delivering high quality advertising, promotional and training films, Freeway was established five years ago by experienced TV professionals Chris Rogers and Nick Kirk.
Before setting up in business, they had notched up a combined 25 years in broadcast television roles. Nick, the winner of several coveted awards for writing, directing and cinematography, was formerly a senior editor for Carlton TV, while Chris was a researcher/director on many regional and network TV programmes.
Pragmatic business advice from The Hive summer school
After the Central TV studios in Nottingham closed, Chris made contact with The Hive to explore some initial ideas for a commercial venture. The discussions helped him re-evaluate and strengthen those ambitions - and plans for Freeway took more solid shape via a Hive summer school and the HeadStart programme.
"My career had always entailed writing, researching and directing - I had no idea about running a business," said Chris. "HeadStart gives you an insight into sound business principles but it's only over time that you discover the real significance of what you have learnt. You need to experience all the challenges of running the business to put it into context.
Freeway offers a professionally managed production from concept to delivery, along with creative and technical services such as script development, post-production work, DVD authoring and media training. Thanks to their extensive industry links, Chris and Nick can call on many other creative professionals working in fields such as graphics, music, acting and voiceover.
Over the last five years, they have provided corporate clients from Cornwall to Cumbria with a range of video solutions. Their work has spanned documentary-style films and teaching resources for the NHS to promotional videos for UK Trade and Investment. They have even completed a promotional film for The Hive itself. Based on excellent client feedback, much of their work has been generated through word of mouth.
Long-term plans are to grow the business as well as the scale of their productions, working towards the TV market and maybe even films.
While they travel the country to work with clients, their official address is at The Hive and they have continued to benefit from the mentored pathway offered through the SmarTrak programme.
The past year, Chris feels, has been especially rewarding because they have built a stronger network of contacts and opened up new avenues of work.
"Our experience at The Hive has helped us not only to recognise new opportunities but also how to make them come to fruition," he says.
For more information visit the Freeway IP website.
