New community podcast studio with GMCA innovation funding
Leigh Works has been awarded a grant from GMCA’s Foundational Economy Innovation Fund to build a fully accessible podcast and video studio for the Leigh community.
Leigh Works has received funding from the Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s Foundational Economy Innovation Fund to launch a community podcast and video production studio, designed to empower local voices, support small businesses, and develop digital media skills in the Leigh community.
The £11,000 grant is part of an innovative £275,000 fund supporting innovation across Greater Manchester’s “foundational economy” essential sectors people rely on daily, such as local retail, childcare, health, and hospitality. Leigh Works is among 25 organisations across the region chosen to receive funding to boost productivity, creativity, and resilience in these vital services.
The funding has enabled us to convert one of our previously unused spaces into a fully functioning, accessible podcast and video studio. What was once an empty room is now a creative production space designed for community use.
Workshops and training sessions will help newcomers gain confidence in content creation, podcasting, and video production. The space will support everything from marketing videos and educational content to community storytelling and social enterprise campaigns.
“This funding will help us give the local community the tools they need to tell their stories and reach wider audiences more easily.”
The podcast studio is part of Leigh Works’ wider mission to support the foundational economy sectors we rely on every day like retail, care, childcare, and hospitality by helping businesses and individuals build the skills they need to thrive in a digital economy.
The project is one of 25 across Greater Manchester to receive first-phase funding from GMCA, with a potential second round offering up to £60,000 to scale the most impactful ideas. Leigh Works is proud to be part of a region-wide effort to support inclusive innovation, future-ready communities, and meaningful digital access.
As the podcast studio launches, Leigh Works is now welcoming bookings from individuals, community groups, and local businesses. Designed to be affordable and accessible, the studio makes professional podcast and video production possible without the high costs typically associated with creative spaces.
Book our podcast studio today
The studio is open to the community and available to book now at affordable rates. Check availability, see what’s included, and book a session in the new podcast and video studio.