Local Outcome 1: Drawing on business support helps Dekko Comics to plot new path
A pioneering business which supports neurodivergent learners through colourful comics has drawn on the experience of the Council's Business Gateway team to open a new chapter.
Dekko Comics has tapped into the Digital Development Support Programme to develop a platform on their website which offers video courses, teaching young people creative study skills and learning strategies.
There have been more than 30 successful applicants to the Council’s programme since it opened in August 2023, with nearly £200,000 allocated in Digital Development Grants.
The scheme, which is currently closed to new applications, aims to increase digital take-up, knowledge, skills, capacity and confidence.
Dekko Comics, which was founded in 2016, makes educational entertainment by turning written information into fun comic-strip stories – aimed at school children, as well as older audiences and businesses.
Director and Founder Rossie Stone said they were made aware of the Digital Development Support Programme by one of the Council's business advisers.
"We were very pleased and very grateful," he said. "We may not have been able to develop the platform on our website, which sells our video courses, without the support.
"We aim to make learning fun and accessible for all. Our approach is designed to be especially helpful for neurodiverse young people, such as those with dyslexia and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
"The 'commissions' side of our business and 'workshops' are particularly popular, especially when making comic-communication resources for universities or companies. We also make art assets for companies too – especially where cartooning and ‘making things fun’ is concerned."
The Digital Development Support Programme is financed by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and support is tailored specifically to individual company needs, with an officer allocated to guide applicants through the process and any further opportunities that may be available.
Ann Davie, Chief Executive of East Dunbartonshire Council, said,
The programme aims to enable small and medium-sized enterprises to take advantage of the latest technologies – helping businesses, encouraging investment and supporting employment opportunities locally.
“Our Business Gateway service locally provides new-start businesses – and growing enterprises – with access to a wide range of detailed information, advice, workshops and events.
“The Council’s Local Outcomes Improvement Plan includes a focus on supporting a sustainable and resilient economy, as well as education, learning and wellbeing.”
Visit the business support section or email Business.Support@eastdunbarton.gov.uk for the latest business support opportunities.
For more information on the Council’s Local Outcomes Improvement Plan, visit the performance section.
For more information on Dekko Comics, visit the Dekko Comics website.
For more case studies, visit the Performance section.