The free program, which will be run through Bendigo's Emporium Creative Hub, will be open to 13 creatives for a 12-month period.

Emporium Creative Hub manager David Hughes said it was a great way for people to gain more knowledge and experience.

"The impact that COVID-19 has had on the creative industries across the world has been devastating, and that is as true for Bendigo as anywhere," he said.

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"Emporium Creative Hub exists to support our local creative industries, and it is important that we still have a strong industry on the other side of this."

The mentors include Chris Kennett, Christian Leavesley, Sharon Custers, Margot Spalding, and Keith McQueen.

Mrs Spalding said she jumped at the opportunity to be a mentor.

"I've been in business for a very long time," she said. "I never had a mentor but I could see that a mentor would have been great - to have someone who has experience in business and creative industries who can assist with decision making and make suggestions.

"Sometimes in business it's very nice to have someone who is removed from your business to talk to because they are more objective."

Applications for the program are now open and close on October 21. More information about the program and the mentors can be found at emporiumcreativehub.com.au/mentoring-program

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