🎨 Funding Secured: Launching Our Youth-Led Pop-Up Art Shop
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We are proud to announce that Genuine Futures CIC has successfully secured funding to launch our new youth-led Pop-Up Art Shop.
This exciting initiative has been made possible thanks to the Bolton Fund, supported by Bolton Council, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for their belief in our vision. We are also incredibly grateful for the continued encouragement and practical support from Bolton Community and Voluntary Services, whose guidance has strengthened our delivery and impact.
The Pop-Up Art Shop will provide a dedicated platform for young people who have graduated from the Boss Your Future programme to showcase and sell their artwork, crafts, paintings, drawings, and creative pieces. Two of our recent graduates have already been preparing for their first Makers Market event in March 2026, producing impressive work that reflects both talent and determination.
A Powerful Creative Partnership
This project will be delivered by Genuine Futures CIC in collaboration with Wispleaf Ltd, a nature-inspired creative brand blending storytelling, design, and digital innovation.
Wispleaf will support our young artists with mentoring in product development, branding, merchandising, and creative enterprise—ensuring the Pop-Up Art Shop is not only inspiring but professionally grounded.
Sam Smith, Founder of Genuine Futures CIC, said:
“This funding represents more than a shop—it represents belief. Belief in young people who have talent but haven’t always had opportunity. The Pop-Up Art Shop will give them visibility, confidence, and real enterprise experience. We are deeply grateful to Bolton Council and Bolton CVS for recognising the importance of investing in young people’s futures.”
Charlotte, Founder of Wispleaf Ltd, added:
“Creativity thrives when young people feel seen and supported. Partnering with Genuine Futures allows us to combine artistic expression with real-world enterprise skills. We’re excited to mentor these talented young artists and help them build something sustainable, inspiring, and genuinely impactful.”
Paula Yates, Genuine Futures in-house artist and project participant, said:
“Being part of this project means everything to me. I’ve always loved creating art, but I never thought I’d have the chance to sell my work and show people what I can do. This Pop-Up Art Shop gives me confidence and makes me feel proud of how far I’ve come.”
More Than a Shop
The Pop-Up Art Shop will be a vibrant, youth-led space—designed and managed by young people themselves. It will offer:
- Original paintings and drawings
- Handmade crafts and gifts
- Portrait and mural commissions
- Community workshops
- Outdoor stalls and events
This project supports confidence, employability, enterprise skills, and community pride—while bringing fresh creativity into the local landscape.
Today marks an important step forward—not just for Genuine Futures, but for the young people who now have a real platform to shine.
To everyone who believed in this vision—thank you. This is just the beginning.