Emporium manager David Hughes said 2022 is looking exciting for the hub with a number of programs ready to launch.

"We have heaps of programs ready to launch with a series of workshops kicking off in January and a podcast launching early next year," he said. "Our mentoring program is having overhaul and we have residencies coming up.

"The word evolve is a good one. We have had two iterations of incubator so far. Going into 2022, what we are looking to do - after a proper review of latest program - is to launch business accelerator programs.

"An incubator is about incubating ideas and getting to place where people can create a business but the accelerator is about engaging with people who already have a business and getting that business to the next stage."

Mr Hughes said the 13 people had been through the latest incubator program following 14 in the inaugural one.

The challenge for Emporium was to pivot enough to be able to present the 14-week incubator course during the pandemic.

"Obviously these types of programs are best done in person," Mr Hughes said. "A large part of it is about building a network and community.

"Both of the incubators have been hybrid - online with some in-person events - which has been good. Like everyone else, the ability to go online has taught us a lot but, at the same time, nothing beats in-person connections."

A variety of creatives have taken the opportunity to expand their ideas into businesses with visual artists, writers, video producers, gamers and fashion workers completing the program.

"We had artists who were illustrators, some who utilised art to do soft furnishings and someone whose business was based around body art," Mr Hughes said. "It was a really diverse group.

"While they are diverse, they all have this same passion for what they do. It is interesting watching how they inspire each other and support each other."

The lifting of COVID restrictions has allowed the hub's space in Mitchell Street to be used by more people looking for space to work or meet.

"It's certainly a lot busier than has been," Mr Hughes said. "Over the couple of weeks it has really started to hum. We have a lot of people using the space which gives it a nice vibe.

"Coming out of lockdown restrictions we could only have 10 people. Now every day we have about 18 in the space. It's busier than it has been at any point.

"What that shows me is people are ready for that kind of human interaction, even if it is just sitting in a space with other people."

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content: