Think Circus CIC Request

Organisation Description

Think Circus improves confidence and wellbeing in young people and adults through the energising, challenging and affirming experiences of learning circus. We create supportive communities where failure is celebrated, growth mindset is built, and the impossible becomes real.

We currently run a dedicated circus venue in Leith (Cloud Nine) in a space donated to us by the Ocean Terminal shopping centre and we offer free training space to movement practitioners. We run subsidised projects and classes where people can try accessible circus arts, such as hula hooping, juggling and basic acrobatics. Over the last year, we have reached 1,800 participants who tell us they feel more confident, felt less anxious and made friends.

Our proudest achievement has been delivering our regular programmes to women, young people and families in Leith and Craigmillar. This includes Girls Forest Circus, a teenagers circus club and regular showcases for artists and young people to share their achievements.

What are they looking for?

Think Circus is in a critical period of growth where we need to make big decisions about the future of our organisation. We are seeking support with developing a business plan and strategy as we seek to find a new home for our organisation. We have seen the benefit of a dedicated circus venue within a public space across all of our outreach activities, and it is clear that such a venue should be part of our plans for the future. However, the venue we currently inhabit is scheduled for demolition later this year. Currently, we share this space with multiple organisations, sound-proofing is an issue, and we are not allowed to monetise this space which restricts the activities we can put on. We also need to ensure that the management of the venue does not detract from the other services we provide, especially as our traded income continues to grow. Having experienced the benefits of having a venue, we would appreciate advice and support with securing a new venue to move to. As a small organisation in a period of change, we are seeking guidance to help us scale up in a sustainable way.