Manchester Libraries is presenting MEGA! a month long celebration of digital enterprise and discovery, to help local small businesses and entrepreneurs.
The festival takes place in libraries across the city until 31 March, offering a broad programme of free digital workshops, talks, events and meet-ups.
Build a website in a day at the Forum Library (Monday 20 March) or North City Library (Friday 24 March). By the end of the course, you will know how to register and set up your own site using WordPress, plus how to use features like plug-ins and widgets to make the site more effective, and also gain tips on how to make your content stand out.
Learn video skills at workshops across the city including the Avenue Library & Learning Centre (Wednesday 15 March) and Didsbury Library (Wednesday 22 March). The day long workshops will give you all the skills you’ll need to create videos and join the YouTube generation.
Fab Lab Manchester will show you how to make the most of cutting edge 3D printing at Central Library (Wednesday 29 March). You’ll learn how to use Google Sketch Up, convert a 2D design into 3D design and create and print your own badge.
Join a panel discussion – can musicians can profit from their work in the digital age? The panel includes Martyn Walsh from the Inspiral Carpets, digital consultant Sammy Andrews (above) and Simon Lyon, a producer and trainer from Berlin-based music software company Ableton.
Other highlights include:
How to profit from your blog (Central Library, Thursday 9 March, 10am)
An introduction to Intellectual Property (Central Library, Wednesday 15 March, 10am)
Learn how to protect your online privacy at ‘CryptoParty Manchester’, hosted by the Manchester Open Rights Group (Central Library, Friday 17 March, 2pm)
How to sell products online (Longsight Library, Saturday 25 March, 10am)
Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, Councillor Luthfur Rahman, said: “We’re keen for everyone in Manchester to take full advantage of the opportunities that digital technology can bring. This series of free
events will provide inspiration and motivation for any budding entrepreneur with the spark of an idea for a great new venture.”
For the last three years, Manchester Libraries has been working with start-up and small businesses to help them to take full advantage of digital technology. Funded by BDUK, the Central Library Demonstrator Suite has delivered courses, workshops and seminars to businesses, enabling them become more competitive, saving time and money. More than 15,000 places have been taken up at events since the project launched.
More than 30 events are taking place as part of the MEGA! Festival. For full listings and to book your place, go to Eventbrite.