gSOEUlfOO
Qotp CULTURAL
ENTERPRISES
ANNUAL REPORT
I APRIL 2024 - 31 MARCH 2025
Ir_;.

Annual Report 2024-25
Trustees, Retx)rt
Treasurer's Re￿rt
27
CA)jects and Public Benefit
29
Structure, Governance and Management
31
Statement OfT￿￿teeS, Responsibilities
33
References and Admlnlstratfve tkltalls
35
Independent Fxaminer's Rep)rt
36
Consoli(lated Statement of Finandal Artfvlties
38
arity and Consolldated Balance Sheet
39
Statement of Cash Flows
40
Notes to Financial Statements
41

3 Annual Report 2024-25
INTRODUCTION
Thc Trustees of the Assoclatlon for Cultural Enterprtses present
thelr Annual Report and consolldated financlal statements of the
charity and Its subsldlary for the year endiiig 31 March 2025,
which have also been prepared to meet the requireinents for a
dlrectors, report and accounts for Cornpanles Act purposes.
The fiiiancial statements comply wlth the Charfjtles Act 2011, the
Companles Act 2006, the Artlcles of Assoclatlon, and Accounting
and Reportlng by Cliaritles.. Statement o( Recominended Practlce
appllcable to charities preparlng their accounts in accordance
wlth the Financial Reportliig Staiidard appllcable lil the UK and
Republlc of Ireland (FRS 102).
Front cover Bodleian Libraries, Oxford, the settinglor
a Cultural Enterprises Masterclass oil Venue Plire

4 Annual Report 2024-25
OUR VISION, MISSION
AND STRATEGIC AIMS
Our vlslon Is to empower the cultural sector to secure a sustalnable future.
Our mlssion Is to promote commerclal best practice Sn the cultural sector by harnes.sing the
combined strength of our communlty's knowledge and experience. We deliver education
and bulld connections across all areas of self -generated Income, fur everyone at every
stage of thelr Lareer.
To deliver our vlslon and mlssion we alni to meet the followlng stratLiglc alm5:
. To be recognised as the sector leader.
To transfomi Into a data- led organisatlotL
To Ixome less reliant on extemal ftindin&
To Ixrome an environmentally sustainable entity.
To ratse our proflle.
To growand develop ourrnembership.
To grow&s a supp)rttveand progressive employer.
Member networking at the Cultural
Enterprises Conference in Liverpool

5 Annual Report 2024-25; Chair's Welcome
WELCOME
MELANIE LEWIS. MBE
Chalr of Trustees
Thls has boen a strong aiid Important year for the Association. As we publish thls Annual
Review, I want to thank all of our members aiid partners for the contlnued support,
commitment, and trust you place In us. Our work Is only possible because of you.
The context across the sector remains challenging. Cultural organlsations are stlll grappllng
wlth cost pressures and pollcy uncertalnty, while continuing to deliver value to thelr
coiiimunltles and vlsitors. Many of our members are navlgatlng increases in wage costs,
National Insurance, and penslon contribLltions, alongside ambitions to be exceptlonal
employers for their teams and dellver outstanding experiences for customers and cllents. I'hls
Is demandlng work, and It deserves recognitlon.
In that context, 2024125 has been a year of real momentum and progress for the Assoclatlon.
Our Membership grew by 9%, and we returned to operating at a flnancial sury)lus. More
importantly, we focused oiir resources where they mattor most: helping ineinbers to build
capabllilyi generate Inconie, and stay connected to each other and to best practlLe.
We launched the CornTnercial Performance Barometer In January, whlch Is already proving to
be one of our most valued tools. It glves organisations real-tirne Inslght iiito iiicome trends and
vlsltor behavlour, supporting you to make sharper decisions and plan effectlvely. We
Introduced the Onllne MeTnber Forum to strengthen peer-to-peer collaborationi expanded our
free Reglonal Networklng events, and launched a new free Jobs B()ard. These are practical,
meinber-driven changes, which are already dellverlng beneflts.
The Cultural Enterprlses Academy conllnues to grow In depth aiid value, offerlng outstandliig
CPD approved content completely free to all staff across niember orgaiiisations. We are proud
to offer learnlng that supports commercial growth, operatlonal resilience, and leadership
developnient; accesslble to all, regardless of slze or geography.
Our flagshlp event, the annual Conference, reached new heights this year. Over 8nn delegates,
exhibltors, and speakers jolned us In Liverpool, making It the largest event in our history. For
me personally, it was a joy to welcome so many of you to rny hotnetown. The energy, insight,
and generoslty on dlsplay was outstandlng. Speakers from inside and nutside the sector,

6 Annual Report 2024-25: Chair's Welcome
Includlng Ltverpool and Hasbro, remlnded us that cultural commerce is constantly evolvlng
and that the Associatlon slts at the heart of that progress. Special thanks to our member
organisation, Natlonal Museuins Liverpool, for their support In delivering events across their
portfolio of venues, and 10 all our partners and sponsor5 for their generous and valued support.
We are also deepenliig oiir Inipact around sustalnabljlty and Innovation. The Seeds of Change
prlze Is supporting bold Ideas Ilke Fruitmarket's Future MakL'rs programme, and our Retall
Sustalnablllty Framework is glving practical, everyday tools to teams trying to work more
sustalnably. These resources are tangible, aecesslble, and already dellverlng chaiige.
Looklng ahead, we wlll launch our new Emerging Leaders PrograrnTne to support the next
generatlon of commerclal leaders. We will Lontinue to enhance our benchmarklng, deepen our
learnlng offer, and grow our natlonal reach and Influence. Biiilding on the SUCLLISS of thls year's
Mentorfjng Programme, now Into Its fifth year, we wlll launch an expanded and refreshed
progiainme to provlde even greater support to our members throughout all stages of thelr
career. And we will keep strengthenlng the tools and networks our members need most.
Thls has also been a perlod of transitlon for the Association. In March 2025, we knew that our
Chlef ExeLUtlve, Gordon Morrlson, would be stepping do￿ later in the year. Gordon has made
an exceptlonal contrlbution to the growth and confidence of the knoLiation and leaves us In a
posltfioii Lif real strength. We wlsh hlm every success In his exclting new rnle, and on belialf of
the Board, I want to thank Gordon for his leadership• vision, and cornmltmeni.
We also said goodbye to Trustees Carollne Brown, Clirls Gllbert and Rod Taylor during thls
perlod. Their Inslght, experlence, and generosity have played a vltal role in shaping the
organisatlon's recent development. I would Ilke to thank them all for their service and impact.
As thls report goes to publfcation, recruitment for our next Chlef Executlve Is underway. The
Board rernalns focused on securlng the rlght leadershlp to take the Association forward. We are
clear In our ambitioii, values, and purpose, and we are confldent In the road ahead.
Thank you to all of our members (or being part of thls communlty. Please continue to use what
is on offer, challenge us, and share your ideas. The Assoclation is stroiiger because of your
involvement, and we look forward tu worklng wlth you In the year to Loine.
MELANIE LEWIS, MBE

7 Annud Report 2024-25: Membership
MEMBERSHIP
The year to March 2025 gaw a 9% increase In membershlpi brlnglng our total niemberslilp to
520 organlsatlons, made up 01330 Menilxhrs and 190 Associates. Acting in response to member
feedback, we have introduced a nurnber of slgnfificant new member beneflts. These crltical
tools are not lust features - they're deslgned to shlft how cultural eiiterprises work and grow.
Our newcommerclal Perforniance Barometer offers monthly benchmarklng Insights
gathered from mernber venues, aLcessible via an interactlve dashboard.
The onlfine Member b'orum Is a place for members to share knowledge and solutlonsi Post
questlons and coiinect with each other.
The new self-scrvlce Job Board (wlth free advertising for inembers from i Aprll 2025)
makes It easy for members to recruit the best talent from across the sector.
A sL*rles of free reglonal networklng event.s now support local coniieLtions.
In response to feedback from Associates who wanted more opportunities to engage wlth
members, we have Introduced a new tlered membership structure, wlth flexlble optlons to
Increase reach and vlsibillty.
We al.so launched an enhanced, lully search*1ble Supplier Directoryi and all Assoclates now
have the opportunlty to create an Exclusive Member Offer to help raise thelr proflle.
What's Next
Strengthenlng engagement wlth our new member beneflts wlll be a prlorlty, reflectliig our
ongoing commitment to ensurlng our members, volces contlnue to shape our work, and to
building a connected and collaboratlve membershlp conimiiiilty.
l The Association community has been such
a welcoming and supportive place for me
and my team. l am grateful for its support,
endorsement and encouragement.
Rosie Baker, Director ol Commercial & Operations,
Foundling Museum (pictured right, receivlng the
Best Ticketing Initiative Award wilh Tabitha
Paterson, Visltor Engagement Manager)

8 Annual Report 2024-25: Membership
Members by Organisation Type and Reglon
&9%
.9%
5.9X
Garden. Park or Zoo
5X
9.9%
l*toric Ho(Th•
14.9%
Llbrtyy
3X
29.7%
10.9%
Scotl
Idlan
9%
Lon
uth 26
@ Members

9 Annual Report 2024~25: Member Beneflts
COMMERCIAL
PERFORMANCE BAROMETER
Launched In January 2025, the Commercial Performance Barometer marks a garne changlng new
beneflt for oiir members delivering the most up to (laie, consistent, and sector-speciflc Insight
Into commercial and audienLe performance across UK cultural venues. Thks monthly survey is
already transfonning how organisations understaiid and respond to commerclal trends, enabling
partlcipants to benchmark perforniance, identlfy emerging patterns, and share best practice.
Hlghlights
January results revealed a mixed start to the year: overall admlsslons were down 4%
compared to January 2024, drlven In part by adverse weather, temporary closures, and
ongofing cost-of-living pressures.
However, the data also highlfighted areas of resilience partlcularly In retail aiid caterlngi
where Increased average spend per vlsitor and transaction value suggested a wllllngness
among audiences to pay more for quallty experlences.
Encouraglngly, 47010 of members reported gnod or exLellent Lommerclal perfomiance, and
66% expressed optimism about the year ahead,
What's Next
Wlth over ioo sites engaged In Its flrst three months,
the Barorneter Is fast becoining an essential plannlng
tooli provldlng data that has the potentlal to shape
strateglc declslons and drlve Improvement across
the sector. We wlll continue to grow partlclpatton,
measure reach across oiir niembershSp, and embed
the Barometer Into our meniber value proposition
ensuriiig even tnore organlsatlons can benelit from
these timely and actlonable insights.
The Barometer feels
transformative -
becoming data-led
enables us to benchmark
performance and identify
opportunities plus quick
wins that are essential in
a challenging market
David Middlemiss, Deputy Chief Executive,
Black Country Living Museum
@ Dashboard

10 Annual Report 2024-25: Member Benefits
ONLINE MEMBER FORUM
As part of our cornrnltrnent to fostcrlng greater connectivlty and knowledge sharlng across our
communlty, and iii response to demand from mcmbers, thls year saw the successful launch of
oiir free Onllne Mcmber Forum. Deslgned as a dedicated spaLC for nienibers to post questions,
share advice, and connect with peers, the Forum has already seen encouraging uptake. By
strengthenlng participation and embedding the Forum into the member joiirney, we hope to
bulld a rnore connected, Informed, and engaged communlty.
Highlfights
Slnce launchlng In Navember 2024, we've seeii 318 uiiique posts from 271 unlque users
There have been 5,652 page vlews across a wide range of topfics Includlng events, venue hlre,
F&B, vlsltor cxpcrlence, retall, and ecnmmerce. This early activfity hlghllghts both the
appetite and potential for deeper collaburation aiid peer- to-pecr learning.
What's Next
Loolcing ahead our focus Is buildlng on thls mornentutn. We aim to Increase the proportlon of
meinbers actively uslng the Forum, noi only by enhancing its vislbllfity and usablllty but also by
encouraglng coiitrlbutlons. This wlll Include Iracklng engagement rnetrlcs to better understand
Its Impact and Inform future Improvements. We'll also explore opportunlties to inte%rate the
l¥ofuTn more fully Into our member acqulsltlon strategy J posltlonlng It as a key benefit of boining.
Peta Swindall & Samantha ￿ne, Litile Aiige'l
Theatre sharing insights al the ConlerencL'
//

11 Annual Report 2024-25: Events
EVENTS
Our annual events programme delivers expert-led training, peer-to-peer learnlng and valuable
networking opportunlties, covering all cominercial actlvlties within the sector Includlng
caterfing, ecommerce, filmlng• retail, sustalnablllty, ticketing, venue hire and vlsitor experienc
Highlights
Over 1,600 delegates engaged wlth our events programme across the year, with a 94%
average satisfaction score.
Seeds of Change was our first networking event specifically almed at senior leaders, wlth
content showcaslng the best of envlronmental sustalnabillty Initlallves In the Lultiiral sector
as well as the presentatlon of the inaugural Seeds of Change prize fund.
OLir new serles of one day online conferences are designed to make c.ornmercial content and
networklng aLcessible to all, with peer-to-peer exchange of experience and the opportuiiity
to connect, network and share ideas in roundtable discussinns.
Our free reglonal networklng events, created In response to mernber feedbackj provlde an
opportunlty to make new coniiectlons and hear commercial Insights In an Informal setting.
What's Next
We'll continue to de15vei liisplratlonal and engaglng tralnlng events and networklng
opportiinltles to support Income generation In the cultural sector, both online and In person,
wlth bursary places available to ensure all events are fully accessible to our menibers.
The event gave me head space to review
where we are and howwe can move
forward. It was nice to be in a room full
of people who understand running a
business within a cultural venue.
Je55 Nicklin, 14ospitality Operaiions Manager,
BALTIC Cenirefor Contemporary Art
@ Events
Lewis Iwu, Purpose Union, spoke ai
Viewfrom the Top on Diversity,
Eouitv and Incliision

12 Annual Report 2024-25: Conference
CONFERENCE
In March 2025 we dellvered our biggest and Tnost ambltious Conference to date, brlnglng
together over 800 delegates, exhfjbltors and speakers In the vlbrant city of Llverpool. I'he two
day event showcased inspirlng case studles and innovatlve projects across all areas of cultural
Incorne generation, wlth a wlde range of speakers from across the seLtor and beyond.
Hlghllghts
23% increase In delegate numbers compared wlth the prevlous year, Includlng Increased
attendance from .senlor leaders.
Our exLeptlonal keynote speakers Toni Cassidyi Liverpool Football Club and Ashley
Alexander, Hasbro, both gave Inspiratlonal ialks that were very well recelved.
A vlbrant atrnosphere with connectlons belng made and conversations touching on
everything frorn strategy and leadershlp to shopfloor challenges and opportunitles.
92% rated thelr overall satls(actlon wilh the eveiit as Very Good to Excellent,
What's Next
Respondliig to feedback we wlll be explorlng fuither opportunlties to enhance the Conference
programme wlth a nuinber of frlnge ilctivlties Includlng learning tours, focused and facllltated
networklng sesslons, and the Trustees tA>unge where delegates can meet and chat iiiformally
wlth our Board of Trustees.
LL
,Excellent conference ~ we learnt a
lot and made many new
connections. The sector has
challenges that can't be ignored but
opportunities that must be grasped.
ro I￿O￿e And Vlsltor
STr01￿1 PrO￿(t Dlver51fic8tloi I
Tom Ca55idy, Director of Toijrisni, Liverpool FC
(pictured right delivering the keynote speech)

13 Annual Report 2024-25: Coi)ference
One of the most welcoming and
forward-thinking gatherings of the
year, brilliaiitly organised. Inspiring
to be surrounded by passionate
professionals, all dedicated to
shaping the future of cultural
attractions.
lohn Turner, Director, Tlie Penny Press
li
An Inspiring and successful
conference with a multitude of
different talks which have left me
energised and excited for the future
of culture and heritage in the UK.
Will Desmond, Deputy Visitor E¥perience
Manager, The Design Museum
Delegates, exhibitors and speakers including (right)
keynote Ashley Alexander, Vice President - Filni, H05bro

14 Annual Report 2024-25: Trade Show
TRADE SHOW
The Cultural Enterprises Trade Show ts a flagshlp evLint, providlng a platforrn for sector-level
supplier development, product innovatlon, and commercial growth. Our goal is to create a.
welcomingp dynarnlc space where delegates can discover new brand5 and opportunitle.s, and
exhlbltors can showcase thL•ir products, grow their networks, and strengthen tlieir presence In
the sector. We curate the show with care, striklng a balance betwcen returning L'xhibltors and
fresh, Innovatlve volces, ensurlng the experleiice remalns hlgh quallty, relevant, and inspiring.
Highlights
Design Natlon Collaboratlon - a curation of Independent designer makers for whom the
opportunity for exposure and connection ts increasingly valuable.
Cultural ConneLtlons IA)unge - new for 2025, Stephen Spencer + Associates hosted this
Informal networklng space for diop-ln conversatlons and knowleilge sharhng.
Stand sales grew by nearly io%, and the standard of presentatlon was partlciilarly high,
offerlng thoughtfiil and meaningful engagement for delegates. I'hc atmosphere was vibrant,
creative and highly valued by all In attendance.
What's Next
We are commltted to continuing to enhance the Trade Show experlence, for both exhlbltors and
delegates. Thls Includes attracting new brands to keep the event fresh and cxcltlng; supportlng
Olir loyal exhibitors wlth the best envlronment to meet new clients; and expanding interactive
areas such as the Cultural Connections IA)unge to n)axlniise engagement throughout the event.
other wonderful event! I've come
away full of ideas) projects, new
friends (and important contacts)
and above all filled with enthusiasm
to create moments of wonder.
zoe Scott, Cured (Exhibitor)
i(

15 Annual Report 2024-25: Trade Show
25/
new
exhibitors
90/
plan to return
In 2026
AHr
Easy to navigate and spacious,
enabling nieaningful conversations,
like being in a high end retail setting.
One of the best shows I've visited.
Trade Show Visltor
'WEET
OB
-71,

16 Annual Report 2024-25: Awards
AWARDS
The only Industry Awards whlch exist solely to recognise and celebratlon commercial success
and creativlty in the cultural sector, the Cultural Enterprises Awards provide a platforrn to
showcase best practice and inspire innovatlon in sustainable income generation.
Hlghllghts
For the first time entrles were open to all cultural organlsatiuns, not Just members,
provlding the opportunity to liicrease awareness of the Awards throughoiit the sector.
New categorles were Intr(Kluced coverlng the full range of commercial actlvlty Includlng
fllmlng, venue hlre, tlcketingi marketlng and a popular new Award for Team of the Year,
A new set of criteria was created for consistency across all categories and jiidges, based on
three key elements - Innovation, commercial success and sustainabillty andlor EDI.
What's Next
Contlnulng wlth thls establlshed set of award categorles and crlteria, we'll contlnue to grow
awareness of the Awards, Increasiiig entrles from across the wider sector and positioning the
Cultural Enterprlses Awards as a prestfiglous and hlghly souglit after badge of excellence.
e calibre of entries demonstrates
supreme entrepreneurialism,
excellence of visitor experience, and
real resilience. Ground breakingi
sector leading - we have it all here.
141DE
IA TII.Ic
Rebecca H055ain, Director ol Commercial
& Operations, Sir lohn Soane'5 Museum

17 Annual Report 2024-25: Awords
CIIOPhTIA'
110¢ tlMind¢
O Nllel
The passion and commitment
displayed in each entry was apparent,
as was innovation and creativity. It was
inspiring to see how these were applied
to achieve greater inclusion, diversity
and sustainability.
Siobhan l.ynch, Deputy ChieJ Lyecutive &
Director of Operations, Titanic Beljosi

18Annual Report 2024-25: Sustalnobillty
SUSTAINABILITY
As part of our ongoing commltmcnt to envlronmental responslblllty, we contiiiue to embed
sustaiiiable practices across our operatiuns, events, and meinber servlLes. Su5taliiabilfity15 an
evolvlng process, and each activlty presents an opportuiilty to identlfy new and Iniproved ways
of worklng more sustalnably.
Hlghllghts
We aclfftvely prlorltise publlc transport for buslness travel and se.lect venues based on
accesslbillty by public transport. In 2024-25 carlvan use for the Coiiference and Trade Show
fell from nearly 60% to Jiist 25%, showlng that location plannlng and sustaln<ible travel
messaglng are havlng a tanglble ImpacL
All .staff have completed Carbon Llteracy Trainingi deepenlnE our understandliig of the
climate emergencyi pathways to net zero, and how we can take steps to effecl change.
We have made slgnlflcaiit strldes In sustainable event dellvery, reduclng prlnt and using
recycled materlals; encouraglng encoiiraging exhibitors to reuse sustainable dlsplay
niaterlals; soiirclng local and sustalnable Latering where posslble; adoptlng fully
veganlvegetarlan menus; and creating a sustalnabllity checldist for each event.
Our Siistalnability Worklng Groupi Lomprlsing professionals from across the sector,
contlnues to play a vital role guiding and supporting our sustainable initiatlves.
In February 2025, we launched our first onllne.
Sustalnabllity Conference, which was well attended
and positlvely recelved. Thls Is now a regiilar flxture
In our calendari providlng an annual opportunity for
menibers to learn and share best practlce around
sustainabillty.
The Conference app ha5 replaced all printed
materials lor both delegate5 und exliibitors

19Annual Report 2024-25: Sustolnatylity
SEEDS OF CHANGE
launched In 2024 and open to all members, the annual £10,000 Seeds of Lhange prlze fund wa5
created to encourage Innovation In siistainable, income-generating prolects across the ciiltiiral
sector. The calibre of entrles was exceptioncilly high, and we commend all the 2024 Flnallsts,
Includlng Insole Court ry'rust and National Theatre for thelr Imaginative, Insplrlng proposals.
Highlights
The. Inaugural award was presented to FruitTnarket, whrlse innovatlve Future Makers
programine exemplifies the blend of coinmerclal thinklng and sustainable pracLlce the prlze
was created to support. Deslgned by Buytng & Retall Buycr Alllson Everett, the programme
supports Independent makers and emergliig artists in Scotland by mentorlng them to dL)velop
commercfially vlable prodiicts for gallery retall, while staying true to thelr creative practice.
Future Makers Is now successfully supportlng the creatlon of new sustainable buslness
opportunities, and has been transformative for Frultmarket - a shining example of what
happens when creatlvlty meets opportunlry.
Another Flnallst, 1n.sole Court Trust has been Inspired to launch fits moblle Tuk Tuk café
Independently ~ proof that the prlze's influence goes well beyond its single wlnner,
What's Next
Seeds ol Chaiige relnforce5 the vital role the cultural sector can play In nurturlng fnnovatlon and
sustafinablllty from the grouiid up. We'll contlnue to share outcomes froni Future Makers as well
as follow the lourney of the 2025 award winner (to be announced suminer 2025), showcaslng and
Inspiring sustaliiable commercial Innovatlon across the sector.
Seeds of Change has enabled us to raise
much-needed income while bringing
new voices into cultural retail, a model
which can be upscaled to help even
more makers across the UK.
Alli5017 Fverett, Biiying & Retail Manager,
k'ruilrnarket (plctiired lelt witli Katl?leen
Glancy, Development Manager)

20Annual Report 2024-25: Sustainobility
RETAIL SUSTAINABILITY
FRAMEWORK
In Ilne wlth our sustainability commltnients and shaped by member feedback, we have developed
a sulte o( practlcal resources to siipport retail teams and suppliers in ernbeddlng sustaAnabillty
across their operations, onabllng them to take meaniiigfiil, measurablc action at their own pace.
Hlghllghts
14 bespoke resources developed In-house to support sustaiiiable retall practices, Including
templates, guidance documents, examples of sustalnable practices, and how-to guide5.
Just under 300 downloads since the launch of the F'ramework In March 2025.
All users are encouraged to slgn up to our Sustainable Retall Pledge to help bulld a natlonal
picture of positlve actlon.
What's Next
Tlie Framework Is a dynamlc resource and will contlnue to evolve to reflect new research, treiids
and sector needs, wlth up to date and relevant Illustrative case studles.
I'm now using the Framework on a daily
basis and I've already written a policy
using it. It's another example of the
incredible benefits the Association offers.
Matthew14enderson,
Cultural Enterprises Trustee
Ihe
PI>W*F
Ilowfjrs 1 ' 1
ramework
Siisiainable piiblishing by Bookspeed, one of
several inember case studies in the Framework

21 Annual Report 2024-25,. Museum Shop Sunday
MUSEUM SHOP SUNDAY
Museum Shop Sunday continues to generate huge enthusiasm from rnembers and the wlder
sector, creating a focal point to collectively showcase the fantastic retail offer at cultural venues
and the vltal role it performs. It offers a great platforni for cultural organlsations of all types to
showcase products, reach new audiences and boost sales.
Hlghlights
2024 was our biggest campalgn to date, with over 150 UK organisatlons taking part,
Includlng multl-slte nat5oiials Ilke English IILirltage, HistoriL Scotland and Anigueddfa
Cymru as well as iconlc venues Ilke Royal Ballet & Opera, and dozens of IoLal museums and
gallerles across the country from Shetland right down to Cornwall and even Guernsey.
The new Shop with Purpose tagllne really resonated wlth audlences, perfectly capturlng the
essence of the campaign around thoughtful, sustalnable shopplng.
Oiir Instagram campalgn was really linpactful, wlth reach soarlng by 315% to 15.3k.
Collaborative posts with partlcipants perfornied best, willi a reach of up to 4k per post, and
engagement grew by loo% to i.lk
What's Next
We have created new Museum Shop Sunday web pages which have had over 12k views, Includlng
an onllne shop directory which wlll now slt on our webslte as a permanent featiire. We'll
contlnue to promote the annual campalgn and encourage partlclpatlon across the sector.
Museum Shop Sunday - what an
amazing way of highlighting
everything great about retail in
cultural attractions! We posted
record retail sales on the day.
Rob King, Operations and Project
Manager, The Story, Durham

22 Annual Report 2024-2Jf: Mentoring
MENTORING
The Cultural Enterprises Mentoring Programrne Is a
hlghly rewarding opportiinlty for members. The
programme fetltures a full day of onllne traliilng,
Includlng a personallsed matchlng sesslon. Mentors
recelve an addltlonal day of tralnlngi while rnentees
beiiefit froin a session focused on guidance and supporL
I have become a better
leader because of this
programme and my
mentor
2025 Meiitee
The 2024-25 Cohort
Inployer
lob Tltle
ent
entee
Job Title
Employe
Courtauld
Instltute of Art
Cornmerclal
Director
Jonathan
Plng
Jennller
Pass
Fluslness
Development
Manager
Bamsley
Museums
Bath Museums
& Gallerles
Retall Servlces
Manager
Rachel
Chlvers
Deputy Vlsltor
Experlcnce
Manager
The Deslgn
Museurn
Desmond
Natlonal
Gallery
Head of
Operatlons
Carole
Keltie
Klrsty
RicliaTds
Venue
Operatlong
Manager
Wales
Mlllennlum
(£ntre
Hea(1 of
Operations Pé
Commerclal
Amy
Aklno-
Witterlng
Publlc
Programmes
Producer
YoungV&A
Danny
Woolston
Natlonal Arniy
Museum
Take the
Curront Ltd
Dlrector
IA)uise
Emerson
Natalle
stevens
Manager, Not
Just a shop
Universlty of
the Arts IAJndon
Royal IlotaniL
Garden
Edlnburgh
Head of
Enterpr15es
Clare
I￿ah
Scarlett
Retall.Store
'slstant
Manager
Royal
Armourles

23Annud Report 2024-25: Academy
ACADEMY
The Cultural Enterprises Academy offers over 40 unlts of LPD approved learnlng avallable free
of charge to all staff in meiiiber organisations - an incredible member beneflt worth nearly
£2,000 per person.
Hlghlfights
Thls year several new courses were added to the Academy:
An Introductlon to Fundraisiiig by ile de Cormis
Flndfing the Right Ticketlng System by Carly Straiighan
Creatlng Transforniatjve Visitor Experlences by Davld Hlngley, Blanca Corriette and
Rachel Kuhn
Value Led Vlsltor Journey Design by Davld Hlngley, Blanca Corrlette and Rachel Kiihn
• A Qulck Gulde to Mentorlng and Coaching by Gabriela Gandolflnl
Enrolments were up 20% In 2024- 25 cornpared to the previous year.
The most popular courses Included Visual Merchandlsing, Leadership, Shi)p Floor Skllls,
Maxlmlsingcommerclal Income and Consumer Psychology.
What's Next
We are looking forward to refreshlng exlstlng courses and creatlng new ones, wlth a fiirther
four courses due to be added to the library of content In 2025-26. A partlcular focus wlll be on
creating learnlng pathways for entry-level and liinlor cultural professionals.
Explore courses
Filming a new Visiior Experience coursei presented
aiid co-created by Bianca Corrieite, BOP Consulting

24 Annuol Report 2024-25: Looking Ahead
LOOKING AHEAD
GORDON MORRISON
Chief Executive
As I prepare to embark on my own next chapter as a member of the Associalion, rather than
It5 CEO, I reflect on 2024125 wlth Immense prlde and a deep sense of accomplishment. It
brings me tremendous satlsfactlon to know tliat I wlll be leaving the L%soclatlon for Cultural
Enterprlses lil a posltlon of srrength, with our membershfip reachlng a record high of over 520
organlsatlons. Furthermore, the sheer scale and success of our Llverpool conference and trade
show thls year, which brought together over 800 Indlviduals from across and beyond the
cultural sector, underscores the vibrant and dynamlc communlty we serve,
l am also Incredlbly proud of the remarkable dedlcation and responslveness demonstrated by
our Executlve Team and Trustees throughout the past year. Recognising the slgnificant
challenges faclng cultiiral organlsatlons In the current Lllmate, thelr unwaverlng
conimltment to understandfing and addresslng the evolvlng needs of our members has been
truly Inspiring, We Ilstened fintently when our members clearly articulated thelr need for more
practlcal, free tools and servfices to help them navigate Ihese tiirbiilent tlTnes, and l am
dellghted that we took decisive and bold step5 in 2024125 to dellver on thfjs.
This commitTnent translated directly Into signillcant investment and the successful launch of
several keyi free initiatives designed to provlde tangible supporl:
The CoTnTnerclal Performance Barometer, our new mniithly resource which empowers
members with cruLial data and insfights lo inonltor their commercial health, understand
broader sector trends, and identlfy pathway5 for growth by beiichniarking thelr
performance agalnst their peers.
The Onllne Member Forum now provldes a seamless platform for our members to
connect, engage In peer-to-peer learnlng, seek support and Insplratlon, and share
valuable ideas and Inslghts.
Our new serles of free Reglonal Networklng Events dlrectly addresses the strong deslre
expressed by our members for more in-person connection and collaboratlon.

25 Annual Report 2024-25: Lookin9 Ahead
FurtherTnore, our commltmcnt to provldlng practlcal and meanlngful educatlon and tralnfing
has been significantly amplified. In direct response to the need for bespoke development
opportunitles, l am particularly excAted about the upcoming launch of our new Emerging
Leaders Programme fin 2025126. Thls unlque Initlatlve Is specifically deslgned to support and
cultivate the next generatlon of commerclal leaders within our sector.
Flnally, we have made slgnlflcant strldes In provldlng greater In.splratSon and sharlng best
practlces from both wlthln and beyond our sector. Thls has been achleved through:
The development and launch of new Onlfine Academy Courses, offeriiig expert-led
learnlng and practlLal Inslghts.
The hostlng of webinars and events featurlng Inslghtful guest speakers from dlverse
Industrles, broadenlng our collectlve perspectives and understanding.
Our largest and most ambitlous conference to date, whlch featiired outstandlng keynote
speakers such as Torn Cassldy from Llverpool FC and Ashley Alexander froin Ilasbro,
bringfing Invaluable commerclal expertlse and fresh perspectlves dlrectly to our meTnbers.
Looklng ahead to 2025126, the focus now shifts. flrmly to empowerlng our members to fully
leverage these fantastic new beneflts. 'I'hese are all new resources, and their success hlnges on
your actfive engagement, You asked for them, and we dellvered - so please, l urge you to
utlllse them fully. Our commltment to you remains steadfast: we will not stand stlll and wlll
continue to seek opportunitles to provlde even greater value for your meinbershlp In these
challenging times. A prime example of thls ongoing commltrnent Is the launch o( our new free
Job advertlsing service which is already belng widely adopted.
l ain optim65tlc that the support the Assuclation now provides, and wlll contfinue to provlde In
the months ahead, wlll niake a real and meaningful differe.ncei equipping you with the tools
you need not lust to survive, but to truly thrive. l extend iny very best wlshes for great succes5
In the year ahead to all our members and everyone connected wlth tlie Assoclation.

26 Annual Report 2024-25: Sponsors and Partners
WITH THANKS TO OUR
PARTNERS AND SPONSORS
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ARTS COUNCIL
ENGLAND
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27 Aiinual Report 2024-25: Treasurer's Reporl
TREASURER'S REPORT
For theyear endlng 31 March 2025
The Associatlon made a surplus 01 £26,695 in the year ended 31 March 2025 compared to a
deflclt of £144,352 In 2024. Thls bullds on a year of planiied investment in mernber services
and benefits in 2023121,. That strategy Is now deliverlng results, with increased
engagement and a stronger financial position in 2024125.
The 2024 deflclt Included the ImpaLI of a nuniber of one-off Items, Includlng the wrlte-off
of the remaining Thruu ecommerce assets and reserve commfitments made in respect of
key projeLts. In 2025, business has returned to regular Association activltles of trainAng aiid
conference provislon, which have seen Improved margins.
Consolldated InLome for the year was f.975,409, an Increase of nearly fJi67,oou on the
2024 Income of £808,512. Of thls £201,oou was grant Income. we are once agaln gratc'ful to
Arts Council England for their continued support.
Membershlp Income has seen a further sl&mlflcant year on year Increase of £24,000 (30%)
to ju.st under £106,000. Thls contSnues the trend of growth In membershlp numbers In both
Full and Assoclate Members.
Income from ediicatlonal actlvlties of £202,954 Is an increase on 2024 InLome of £142,831.
A significant contribution to that was the Increase In Conference delegate incomc - at
£127,535 this was an increase on 2024 levels by £41,652.
Trading activltles Income has Increased 10 £458,360 In 2025 from £381,154 In 2024, a 20%
Increase, Thls is helped by Increases across categories of Conference and Trade Show
Income, Associate Meinbership and income Irom tlie Associatlon's online Job Board.
Overall, the Conference and Trade Shnw, our key event of the year perlormed very well,
wlth casts carefully managed and Income opportunltles maximlsed.'fhe margln for the
yearwas £137,880 (36%) compared to 2024: £77,871 (25%).

28 Annual Report 2024-25: Treosufer's Report
Staff costs have reduced on 2024 levels by £15,500 (7%) - thls was achleved by a revlew and
ratlonalisatlon of actlvltfies wlthln the staff base. Careful management of costs means
charltable actlvlty expendlture has only Increased overall by £20,499 (4%) on 2024 levels and
tradlng actlvity expendlture has decreased by £24,000 (6%) on 2024 levels.
Wlth regards to the balance sheet, current assets have Increased by £137,000 due to additlonal
cash belng held at year end In 2025 compared to 2024. However, creditors have also increased
at the end of the year so overall net assets are Increased by £26,695.
The surplus for the year Is transferred Into the general reserve to contribute towards funds
held in accordance wSth clur reserves policy of holding two to tliiee rnonths of owratlng
expenditure In our unrestrlcted reserves. At the end of the year, the total unrestrlcted reserves
held was £219,130, whlch Is wlthlii that range.
Reserves Policy
Reserves are held to fund working capltal, to provlde resources for future actlvfitles, to offset
unforeseeable shortfalls in Income, and to protect the Assoclation agalnst uiiplanned adverse
events. The Trustees have Identified the following key factor5 in setting the level of reserves:
the level of volatillty in our Income
the level of depeiideiicy on the Conference and Trade show
our need to develop the organlsatlon's financial resillence and rebulldlaugment our
activltles
the need to be better prepared for slgniflcant, unexpected events that could Iiave
substantjal detrimental linpacts upon the Association.
The Assoclatlon needs Ilquld funds for worklng capital requfrements aiid to cope wfith
fluctuations in incorne. To address this, we have taken two to three months of operatlng
expendltiire to create a target range for the level of free reserves. Based on current
expendlture levels, thls means we need between £158,100 and £237,200 In free reserves. With
the opening general reserves of £192,435 and the surplus for the year of £26,695, the closlng
reserves are L219,130 which are within this target range.

29 Association for Cultural Enterprises Annual Fleport 2024-25 .
OBJECTS AND
PUBLIC BENEFIT
The Assoclatlon for Cultural Enterprlses Is a charlty establlshed to deliver public beneflt
throiigh the promotlon of excellence In cultural tradlng, whlch contrlbuies to the resilience
and sustalnabillty of cultural Institutions across the UK.
In plannlng and overseeing the Assoclatlon's actlvitles for the year, the Trustees have given
due conslderation to the guldance publlshed by the Charlty Commisslon relating to public
beiieflt. The trustees have considered how the charlty's actfivitles contribute to our alms
and oblectlves and are sailsfled thai the Assoclatlon Is delfivering beneflts to the cultural
and herltage sector via Its member organisatlons.
The As.soclation's charltable purposes are part of the charlty's objects as stated In Its
Articles of Assocfiation:
I,To provide educatlon and tralning for all Its members and the general publlc on
commerce In the cultural and herltage sector.
2.To proniote the voluntary sector for the benefit of the publlc by assisting voluntary
organisatlons and charities to tnaxlmlse thelr revenue by providing a foruni for sharing
Information and Ideas on commerce In the cultural sector.
Activities for Achieving Objectives
The Associatlon provldes eclLILatlon and training to its memt>ers on a wide range of
commerclal activitfies (Includlng publishing• licensing, veiiue hire, filni locations, retail and
caterlng) which helps members to maximlse self-generated Income for their orgaiiisations.
Tlie Lharlty can call upon a considerable pool of expertise vla its staff, Trustees, external
experts and the general membershlp. All rnembers are encouraged to take advantage of thls
expertise via fornial tralnfing and onlliie tools, as well as networks and contacts facilitated
by the Charity's activities.

30 Association for Culturol Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
Formal learntng and development opportunltles Include:
Masterclasses dellvered by expert tralners
Peer to peer .Study Days coverlng a wide range of topics
Certifled courses delivered through the onllne Academy
The aniiual Conference
Other learning and development opportunities incliide:
Networklng at events
Mentoring programme
Resource library includlng model contracts, podcast, blog and benchmarklng
Cultural Enterprlses Awards.
Two biirsary places are avallable for each onllne event and one for each on slte event
throughout the year, coverlng the cost of the delegate fee. These are Ilmited to one delegate
per niember organisation. Additioiial bursaries are avallable for the annual c.onference.
Membershlp Criterla
Membershlp is subject to the criteria set out In the Charity's Ariicles of Association. Both
Mernbers and Associates are warnily encouraged to attend events and meetlngs, but votlng Is
constltutlonally allowed only to Meniber organisations through their norninated
representatives.
Membership Is open to any cultural organisation that18 establlshed (or publlc beneflt and
reglstered as a charlty, or otherwise run not for profit. Such organisataons include museums,
gallerles, Ilbrarles and archlves, hlstorlc houses and gardens, zoos lind aquarlums, reltglous
premlses, theatres and arts centres.
As'.soclate (non-votlng) Membershlp is open to any UK cultural organlsatlon run for prlvate
profit and any commerclal companles, flrms or Indfivlduals thai support the Association's
work. Non-profit, cultural organlsatlons from outslde the UK are also welcorne to joln as
Assoclate Members.
Fundralslng
The Association is funded by the subscriptions of its meml)er.s, payments for education
actlvltles aiid profits from Cultural Enterprises (Trading) Liniited. We are also supported by
Arts Councll England. We do not iindertake any fundraisfing activlty from the general public
and as such we are not subscribed to any partlcular SLheme of fundraislng regulation.

31 Association for Cultural Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE
AND MANAGEMENT
Constitution
The Charity's constltution consists of a Memorandum and Articles of Associatioii. These
were subseqiiently amended and con501idaied Into a slngle set of Articles of Association.
Cultural nierprlses (Tradlng) Limlted (CET) Is a trading subsldiary company of the Charlty
establlshed by the Trustees In 2013 In order for the Charlty to expand its activltles and carry
them out more profitably with less risk CE'I s activities comprise princlpally the
Masterclasses and Conference, with any net operattng profits being donated to the Charlty
under Glft Ald. The results of the company are Included withln the Charlty's consolldated
accounts.
Appointment of Trustees
All Trustee.$ are requlred to have one or more of the skllls required to govern, manage and
steer the Cliarlty effectively. Prospectlve Trustees are recruited by the means of
advertlsement on the Charlty's webslte and emall broadcast with candidaies belng
Intervlewed by a panel of Trustees and expert advlsers for sultablllty.
All Trustees are Informed of their legal responsibillties to the Charity and of governance
procedures generally. Further trainlng Is given to new Trustees on appointment. Followlng
amendrnents made to the ArtlclLJs of Assoclatlon at the 2024 AGM, the Trustees shall
ensure there Is never a rna}ority of Independent'l'rustees from outside the membershlp
servlng on the Board.
Key Management Personnel
Alongside the Trustees, all members of stall are consldered key manageinent personnel
glven the current scale of the Charlty's operations. Thls may change If the charlty grows
and wlll be revlewed annually.

32 Assoctation for Cultural Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
Settlng pay wlthin the Association Is a matter for the Board. InAtlal salarles are discussed and
agreed between the Chlef Executive and the Trustees. An annual revlew of salaries ks
undertakcn by the Flnance and Risk Commlttee wlilch takes into account performance,
market rate5 for slmllar positlons and the prevalling rate of inflatlon. The Committee is not
bound to Increase salaries annually.
There Is no bonus scheme or perforniance related pay mechanlsm. None of the Trustees
recelve rernuneratSon for thelr roles as Trustees of the Associatlon. The staff teain is salaried
and employed by the charlty. The Associatlon employees are also employees of CET.
Organlsatlon
The Trustees delegate the Charlty's day to day work and Iniplenieiitatioii of strategy to the
Chlef Executlve who Is a full tlme ernployee of the Charlty and Managlng Dlrector of the
tradingcompany. There are seven further employees.
Tralnlng courses are dellvered efither by staff from member organisatlons glvlng thelr tline
free of charge, or by Industry professionals contracted to the Association or CET. Secretarlal
and legal support Is provlded by Bates Wells.

33 Associotlon for Culturol Enterprises Annlial Report 2024" 25
STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES,
RESPONSIBILITIES
The Trustees (who are also dlrectors of tlie Associatlon for Cultural Enterprlses for the
purposes of company law) are responsible for preparlng the Trustees, Report and the
flnanclal statcmcnts In accordance with appllLable law and UK Accountii)g Standards
(Unlted Kiiigdom Generally Accepted Accouiitlng Practlce).
Coinpany law requlres the Trustees to prepare financial statements for each financlal year.
Under cornpany law the Trustees must not approve the flnancial statemeiits unless they are
satlsfied that they glve a true and fair vlew of the state of affalrs of the charltable Lompany
and the group and o( the inLoming resources and appllcatloii o( resources, Including the
Income and expendlture, of the charitable group for that perlod.
In preparfjng these financial statements, the Trustees are required to:
select sultable accountlng pollcies and apply them conslstently;
observe the methods and priiiciples in the Charitles SORP;
make Judgeinents and accountlng estimates that are reasonable and prudent;
state whether applicable UK Accountlng Standards have been followed, subject to any
materlal departures dlsclosed and explafined In the flnanclal statements;
prepare the financial statements on the gning concern basis unless It Is Inapproprlate to
presume that the charit<ible group wlll continue In operation.

34 Association for Cultural Ent8rprlses Annual Report 2024-25
The Trustees are responsible for keeplng adequate accountlng records that are sufficient to
show and explaln the charltable company and the group's transactions and dlsclose wlth
reasonable accurary at any tlmo the liiiancial position of the charitable group and enable
them to ensure that the financial stateTnents comply with the Conipanies Act 2006. They are
also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the charitable company and the group and
hence for taking reasoiiable steps.for the prevention and detection of fraud and other
irregularitles.
Thls report has been prepared in accordance with the special provlslons for small companles
under Part 15 of the Companles Act 2006.
Approved by the Trustees on .:
jfind .slgned on thelr behalf by:
MELANIE LEWIS
Chalr of Trustees

35 Association for Cultural Enterprises Annuol Report 2024-25
REFERENCES AND
ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS
Association for Cultural Enterprises
Coinpany registered iio. 06480726
Reglstered charlty no. 1122763
Registered Office and Principal Trading Olflce
Unlt B7, Durham Dales Centre
Stanhopei Blshop Auckland DLI3 2FJ
Sollcltor and Company Secretary
Bates Wells
10 Queen Street Place
London EC4R IBE
Independent F￿arnIner
P W lainb FCA, Allen Sykes Llmited
5 Henson Close, South Church Enterprise Park
Blshop Auckland DLI4 6WA
Banker
Unlty'frust Bank
Planetary Road
Wlllenhall WVI 9DG
Trustees
Caroline Brown (retired April 2024)
Jo Clarkson (Treasurer, independent)
Gabrlela Gandolffini
Chris Gilbert (retired November 2024)
Mattliew Henderson (Independent)
Melanie lThis MBE (Chair, appointed 3 April 2024)
Zak Mensah
Anthony Misqiiltta
Klngston Myles
Rod Taylor (retired November 2024)
laln Watson OBE (independent)
Laura Wright
Finance and Riskcommittee
lo Clarkson
Adam Lee-Pentelow
Gordon Morrison
Klngston Myles
Cultural Enterprlses (Tradlng) Ltd
Liura Lave
Jo Clarkson
Anthony Mlsqultta
Klngston Myles
StaffTeam
Fl Anderson
Creative Development Manager
Tom Dawsoii
Dirertor of Dlgital
lulia Fleppell
Membership & Events Coordinator
Charlotte McArdle
Adrnln Apprentlce
Gordon Morrlson
Chief Executive
Fionnuala O'Donovan Head of Events
Derek Smlth
Flnance Manager
Jo Whitworth
Cornmunications Manager

30 Association lor Cultural Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S
REPORT
I repon to the trustees on my examlnatlon of thc flnanclal statements of the Assoclation
for Cultural Enterprises ('the charlty,) for the year ended 31 March 2025.
Responsibllities and Basis of Report
As the trustees of the company (and also Its dlrectors for the purposes of company law) you
are responslble for the preparation of the flnanclal statements In accordance with the
requlrements of the Cornpanles Act 2006 ('the 2006 Act,).
Havlng satisfled rnyself that the accounts of the cornpany are not requlred to be audlted
under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eliglblL' lor Independent examlnation, I report in
respcct of my examlnation of the charlty's accounts as carrled out under sectlon 14r) of the
Charlties Act 2011 {Ithe 2011 Act,). In carrylng out my examlnatton I have followed the
Dlrectlons glven by the Lharity Commisslon under secilon 145(5)Ib) of the 2011 Act.
Independent Enrnlner's Statement
Since the charity's gross income exceeded £250,000 your examlner must be a member ofa
body Ilsted in sectlon 145 of the 2011 Act. I conflrni that l am qualifled to undertake the
examfinatlon because l ani a member of the Instltute of Chartered ALcountants in England
and Wales (ICAEW), whlch ts one of the Ilsted bodies.
have completed my examinatlon. I confirm that no matters have Lome to my attention in
connectlon wfith the examlnation glvlng rne cause to believe:

37 Assoclation for Cultural Enteiprises Annuol Report 2024-25
i.accountlng records were not kept In respect of the charlty as required by sectlon 386 of
the 2006 Act; or
I the financlal statements do not accord with those records. or
.3. the flnancial statements do not comply with the accountlng requirements of section 396
of the 2000 Act other than any requirement that the accounts glve a 'true aiid fair, view
which Is not a matter considered as part of an independent examlnation. or
4.the financlal statetnents have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and
prlnciples of the Statement of Recoinmended Practlce for acLountlng and reporting by
charltles applficable to charlties preparing their accounts In accordance wltli Ilie Flnanclal
Reporting Standard applicable In the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102).
I have no concenis and have coine across no other matters In connection wlth the
examlnatlon to whlch attentlon should be drawn In thls report In order to enable a proper
understandlng of the accounts to be reached.
Slgned: r tsj
Dated: J
/7/2.
Mr P W Lamb FCA
Independent Examlner
AIIL)n Sykes Llmited
5 Henson Close
Bishop Aucldand
DLI4 6WA

38 Association for Cultural Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT
OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES
Includlng Income and expendlture account for the year ending 31 March 2025
Note
2025
Unrestrlcted
funds
2025
Total
fuiids
2024
Total
fuiids
Income
Membershlps
(irants
EduLatlonal actlvities
Trading actlvitles
Investment income
Proflt on dlsposal of flxed assets
Total Income
105,918
201,643
202,954
458,360
6,615
105,918
201,643
202,954
458,360
6,615
81.756
201,643
142,831
381,154
979
149
808,512
975,490
975,490
Expenditure
Trad5ng tictlvltles
Charltable aetlvlties
Total expendlture
399,851
568,94
948,795
399,851
548,944
948,795
423,850
528,445
952,295
Taxation oli tradlng actlvities
569
Net Incomel(expendlture) for the year
26,695
26,695
(144,352)
Reconcillatlon of funds
Total funds brought forward
Total funds carrled forward
192,435
219,130
192,435
219,130
336,787
192,435
All amounts relate to continuing activltles of the group. The Statement of Financial Activitle.s
Includes all gafins and losses recognised in the year. Notes to these Financlal Statemeiits are
shown on pages 41 to 53.

39 Association for Cultural Enterpris85 Annual Repor12024-25
CHARITY AND CONSOLIDATED
BALANCE SHEET
For the year ending 31 March 2025
Note
2025
Group
2024
Group
2025
Charlty
2024
Charity
Flxed assets
Tanglble assets
Investnients
Total flxed assets
12
4,610
6,128
,610
6,128
4,610
6,128
4,611
6,129
Current assets
Debtors
Investinents
Cash at bank aiid In hand
Total current assets
13
113,804
92,245
loo,000
126,448
318,693
112,398
67,710
100,000
105,573
273,283
19
341,894
455,698
209,363
321,761
Llabllltles
CredltOTS: amounts falling
due wlthin one year
241,178
132,386
109,666
89,401
Net current assets
214,520
186,307
212,095
183,882
Total net assets
219,130
192,435
216,706
190,011
The funds of the charlty
Unrestrlcted funds
15
219,130
192,435
216,706
190,011
Total funds
219,130
192,435
216,706
190,011
The nnanclal statements have been prepared In accordance wltli ihe speclal provlsfrons for small
companles under Part 15 of the c".ompanles Act 2006. The Trustees conshder tl)al the company Is entltled
to Exempiion from the requlrement to have an audlt under the provlslons of 5ec¢ion of the
Companles Act 2006 {'The Act,) and mcmber8 have not required the company to obtaln an audlt for the
year in quesiion In accordance wltli Sectioii 476 of ihe Act. The Trustees acknowledge the.lr
responsibilities for complying with the requircments of the Companles Act 2006 wlth respect to
accouniing records and the preparatlon of flnanclal sfatements.
Approved by the trustees on.,
Slgned and aiithnrl%ed for tssue on thelr behalf by:
Notes to the Financial Statements are shown
pages 41 Io 53.

40 Associatlon for Culturol Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
For the year ending 31 March 2025
2025
Group
2024
Group
2025
Charity
2024
Charity
Cash flows from operatlng activities
Net cash used iii operatlng activiiles
Income taxes pafid on tradlng actlvltles
Net cash (outflow)Ilnflow from
operatlng activities
110,186
(71,618)
JO,119
282
(62,171)
110,186
(61,499)
282
(62,171)
Cash flows from Investlng actlvltles
Payments to acqulre tangible flxed assets
Receipts to dlspose a tangible flxed asset
Interest received
Net cash used In Investlng actlvltles
(1,355)
(5,255)
260
365
(4,630)
(1,355)
(5,255)
260
6,615
5,260
4863
3,508
(4,995)
Net Increasel{decrease) In cash and cash
equfivalents
115,446
(66,129)
3,790
(67,166)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning
of year
226,448
292,577
205,572
272,738
Gish and cash equlvalents at end ofyear
341,894
226,1+48
209,362
205,572
Notes to these Flnanclal Statements are shown on pages 41 to 53.

41 Associatlon for Cultural Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For theyear endlng 31 March 2025
l. Accounting Policies
i.) Basis of preparation
The financlal statements have been prepared in accordance wlth Accountlng and Reportlng
by Charttles: Statement of Recommended PractAce applicable to charfitles preparlng their
accounts in accordance wlth the Financial Rep()rting Standard applicable in the UK and
Republic of Ireland (FRS 102) (Charities SORP {FRS 102)) and the Companles Act 2006.
The As'sociation for Cultural Enterprlse5 meets the deflnition of a publlc benefit entlty
under FRS 102. Assets arid liabilities are liiitlally recognlsed at historical cost or transactlon
value unless otherwise stated In the relevant accounting polfjcy,
The Statement of Financlal Actlvlties (SOFA) and Stateineiit of Financial Positlon
consolldate the flnanclal statenients of the Charlly and Its subsidlary undertaklng. The
results of the subsldlary are consolidated on a linc by Ilne ba51s.
1.2 Companystatus
The charity is a public benefSi entlty and prlvate company limited by guarantee, reglstered
in England and Wales and a reglstered charlty in England and Wales. The Tnembers of the
company are the Trustees nained on page 37. In the event of the company belng wound Upi
the liabllity in respect of the guarantee Is Ilrnlted to £1 per tnember of the company.
1.3 Fund accountlng
General fuiids are unrestrlcted fund5 which are available for use at the dlscretlon of the
Trustees In furtherance of the general ob5ectlves of the company and whlch have not been
designated for other piirposes.
Restricted funds are funds whlch are to be used In accordance wlth speciflc restrlctfons
Imposed by donors or which have been raised by the company for particular purposes. The
costs of raising and adniinlsterlng such funds are charged a%alnst the speciflc fund. Tlie
aim and use of each restricted fund is set out in the notes to the financial statements.
Restrlcted reserves as at 31 March 2025: £0 (31 March 2024: £0).

42 Association for Cultural Enterprises Annual ReF)0rt 2024~25
1.4 Income
All Incorne Is recognised once the company has entitlemént to the Income, it is probable tliat the
Income wlll be received and the amL>unt of incoine receivable can be measured rejiably.
Donated servlces or facilltles are recognised when the cnmpany has coiitrol over the Item, any
coiid5tions assoclated wlth the donaied fttem have been met, the receipt nf economic benefit
from the use of the company of the Item Is probable and that economlc benefit can be measured
reliably.
On recelpt, donated professlonal servlces and donated facllities are recognlsed on Ihe basls of
the value of the gift to the company which Is Ihe amount the company would have been wllllng
to Pcly to obtaln servlces or facillties of equlvalent economlc beneflt on the open iiiarket; a
correspondlng amount is tlien recognised In expendlture In the period of receipt.
The charlty uses voluntary speakers as well as extra Trustee tlme and does not recognlse this
servlce as a glft In klnd.
1.5 Expendlture
Expendlture Is recognlsed once there Is a legal or constructive obliEatlon to transfer economlc
beneflt to a third party, It Is probable that a transfer of economic benefits wlll be required Sn
settlement and the arnount of the obligatlon can be measured rellably.
Expendlture Is classlfled by actlvfity. The costs of each activity are made up of Ihe total of dlrect
costs and shared costs, Includlng support costs Involved iii undertaking each actlvity. Dlrect
costs attributable to a s5ngle activfty are allocated d5rectly to that activity. Shared costs which
contrlbute to more than one actlvlty and support costs which are not atLributable to a single
activlty are apportloned between those actlvities on a basls consistent wlth the use of resources.
Ceiitral Staff costs are allocated equally between the charliy and company.
Fundralslng costs are those incurred In seeking voluntary contrlbutlons and do not Include the
costs of disseminatlng Inforination In support of the charltable actlvitles. Supporl costs are
those costs Incurred dlrectly in support of expendlture on the objects of the company and
Include project management. (iovernance costs are those Inciirred In connection wlth
adiiiinisttation of the COTnpany and compllance wlth constltutlonal aiid statutory requlrements.
Charitable actlvlties and GovernanLe costs are costs Incurred on the charity's operations,
including support costs and costs relating to the governance of the company apporrioned to
charltable actlvtties.

43 Associotion for Cultural Enterprlses Annuol Report 2024-25
1.6 Going concern
In prcparing the Annual Report and Accounts, the Trustees have continued to adopt the going
concern basls. The Trustees belleve the charlty will continue to operate for a period of at least
12 months from the date of approval of these financial statements. and wlll Loniinue to meet Its
Ilabllitles as they fall due for paymeni. The Trustees have reached thi% concltssion ba.4ed on the
available reserves as at the end of Ihe year and the likely costs and revenue5 of the coming
year,
Further details regardlng tlie adoptlon of the goiiig concern basi5 can be found In the
Accounting Pollcies.
1.7 Basls of consolldatlon
The financial staternents consolldate the accounts of the Charlty and all of its subsldlary
undertaklngs ('subsidiarles'). The Charlty has taken advantage of the exemptlon contalned
wlthln sectlon 408 of the Companles Act 2006 not to present Its own Income and expendlture
account.
The deflclt for the year in the accounts of the Chadty was £33,566 (2024: £104,452).
1.8 Interest receivable
Interest on funds held on deposlt Is Included when recelvable and the amount cali be measured
rellably by the Lompanyi this Is normally upon notification of the Interest pald or payable by
the Bank
1.9 Tanxlble flxed assets
Indlvldual flxed assets costing £250 or more are capltallsed at cost and are depreciated over
their estirnated useful economfc Ilves on a stralght line basls as follows:
Compiiter equlpmeiit - stralght Ilne over three years.
i.io Debtors
Trade and other debtors are recognised at the settlement amount after any trade discount
offered. Prepayments are valued at the aTnount prepald net of any trade dlscounts due.
Lil Cash at bank and In hand
Cash at bank and In hand includes cash and short term hlghly Ilquid Investnients wlth a short
maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition or openlng of the deposfit or
simllar account.

44 Association for Cultural Enterpris8s Annual Report 2024-25
1.12 Liabllities and provisions
Liabllltie5 are recognlsed when there is an obligaiion at the Balance Sheet date as a result of a
past event, it is probable that a transfer of economic I￿>nefIt will be required in settlement, and
the amount of the settlement can be estimated reliably. Llabilltles are recognlsed at tho
amouiit that the coiiipany antlcipates It will pay to settle the debt or the amount fit has recelved
as advance(I payments for the goods or services It must provide. Provisions are measured at
the best estimate af the amounts required to settle the obligation. Where the effect of the time
value of money Is materlal, the provlsion is based on the present value of those amounts,
dlscounted at the pretax dlscount rate that reflects the rlsks speclflc to the Ilabillty. Tlie
unwinding of the dlscount Is recognlsed withln interest payable and slmllar chiirges.
1.13 Flnanclal fjnstruments
The company only has flnanclal assets and flnanclal Ilabllitles of a kind that quallfy as baslc
flnanclal Instruments. Basic flnanc'.lal Instruments are Initially recognised at transactlon value
and subsequently measured at their settlement value with the exception of bank loans whlch
are subsequently measured at amortlsed cost uslng the effectlve Interest method.
1.14 Crltlcal accoiintlng liidgements and key sources of estimatlon uncertalnty
In preparlng the flnanckal statements, management Is requlred to make estlmates and
assumptlons whlch affect reported Income, expenses, assets, Ilabilliies and disclosure of
contlngent assets and lfiabllilies. Use of avallable Informatlon and appllcatlon of Judgeinents
are Inherent In the fonmatlon of estlmates, together with past experience and expectatlons of
future eventtb that are belfieved to bLJ reasunable uiider the circumstances. Actual results An the
future could dlffer frorn such estimates.
MaiiagL•ment does not conslder there to be any material accounting estlmates or judgeinents
that need dlsclosure In these ffinanclal statements.
1.15 Retirement benefits
Payments to deflned Lontrlbutlon retlrernent beneflt schemes are charged as an expense as
they fall due.

45 A550¢i0tion for Cultural Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
2. Memberships and Grants
2025
Z024
Full membershlps
Grants (Arts Councll England)
Total donatS01i5 and graiits
105,918
201,643
307,561
81,756
201,643
283,399
Associate membershlps are paid vla the tradlng company.
3. Educational Activities
2025
2024
arnlng and development
Donated gifts and servlces
Cultural Enterprlses Academy income
Conference delegate Income
Total
60,686
9,500
5,233
127,535
202,954
46,607
ii,ou
676
84,548
142,831
The charlty Ss grateful to the varfious organlsatlons who donate their services and
facillties either for free or for a reducL.d charge. An equlvaleiit charge is included
wlthln charltable actfivltles.
Trading Activities
2025
2024
Tradlng Income
Subsidiarycompany Income
458,360
381,154
Trading expenses
Subsldlary company expendlture
399851
424,054
Net Income from tradlng actlvltles
58,509
(42,900)
5. Investments
2025
2024
Bank Interest
6,615
979

46 Association tor Cultural Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
6. Charitable Activities
Governance
Admlnlstratlon
& Organisation
Ciiltural
Enterprises
Academy
Total
2025
Direct costs
Support costs
Total
188,611
334,644
523,255
188,611
360,333
548,944
12,705
12,705
12,984
12,984
2024
Direct costs
Support costs
Total
172.157
337,617
509,774
172,157
356,139
528,296
16,575
16,575
1,947
1,947
7. Direct Costs
Adinlnlstratlon
& Organlsatlon
Total
2025
IEarnfing & development
Conferences & exhlbltlons
Course costs
Educatlonal legal & professlonal fees
Donated gifts & servlces
Total
1,360
161,524
7,285
8,442
10,000
188,611
1,360
161,5U
7,285
8,442
10,000
188,6ki
2024
Learning & development
Member5hlp Coordlnator
Coiiferences & exhlbltlons
Course costs
Podcasts & dlgfital costs
l)()nated glft.8 & servlces
Total
3,335
12,ii6
139,914
3,191
10,601
3,000
172,157
3,335
12,116
139,914
3,191
10,601
3,000
172,157

47 Association for Culturol Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
8. Support Costs
Governance
Adminlstratlon
& Organisation
Cultural
Enterprlses
Academy
Total
2025
Legal & professional fees
Prernlses costs
Course costs
Admlnlstrative costs
Advertlslng & marketlng
Accountancy fees
Independent examlnation fees
Travel & subsfistence
Wages & salarles
Social Security costs
Penslon costs
Entertaining
Donated gifts & services
Other costs
Depreclatlon
Profitlloss on dlsposal
Total
805
16,575
576
17,380
576
7,914
43,647
29,201
969
2,400
30,303
185,279
20,391
8,578
178
9,500
1,144
2,873
7,914
5,070
38,5TI
29,201
969
2,400
30,303
185,279
20,391
8,578
178
9,500
1,144
2,873
12,705
334,644
12,984
360,333
2024
Legal & professional fees
Premlses costs
6,245
1,924
8,169
624
5,184
38,741
22,739
1,919
2,330
36,068
200,962
20,165
8,639
600
624
5,184
38,718
22,739
1,919
Insurance
Admlnlstrative costs
Advertlslng & marketlng
Accountancy fees
Independent exarnlnatlon fees
Travel & subslstence
Wages & salarles
Soclal Security costs
Pension costs
Entertalnlng
Donated gifts & services
Depreciation
Profltlloss on disposal
Total
23
2,330
36,068
200,962
20,165
8,639
600
8,000
8,000
2,148
(149)
356,139
2,148
(149)
.337,617
16,575
1,947

48 Association for Cultural Enterprlses Annual Report 2024-25
9. Staff Costs
2025
2024
Wages & salarles
Soclal SeLurity Losts
Pension costs
Other employee benefits
Total
185,279
20,391
8,578
200,962
20,165
8,639
214,248
229,766
The average niimber of persons employed by the company during the year was as follows:
20Z5
2024
Admlnlstratlon & organlsatlon
The iiumber of employees whose remuneratlon for the year fell withln the followlng bands was:
2025
2024
£60,000 to £69,999
All members of staff are consldered key managemeni persoiiiiel. The total compensation
pald to key management per.sonnel is therefore the total staff costs of £214,248.
No remuneratlon, dlrectly or indlrectlyi was pald or deerned payable for either period to
any Trustee or persons known to be connected with them.
10. Net Income
2025
2024
Net income after stated charglng:
Depreclatlon
Independent examinatlon fees
Proflt & loss on sale of assets
2,873
2,400
2,148
2,330
149

49 Association for Cultural Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
11. Taxatlon
The company Is consldered to pass the tests set out In Sch. 6, Para. i of the Flnance Act 2010
and therefore It Meets the definitlon of a charltable company for UK corporatloii tax
purposes. Accordingly, the company Is potentially exempt from taxation o( Income or capital
galns recelved wlthln categorles covered by Pt. ii, Ch 3 of the Corporatlon Tax Act 2010 or
S.256 of the Taxation of Chargeable Gain5 Act 1992, to the extent that such Income or galns
are applied excluslvely to charitable purposes.
2025
Group
2024
Group
2025
Charity
2Q24
Charity
Curreiit tax
UK Corporation Tax on profits
for the current perlod
569
The actual charge arlses on the subsidiary's ttadlng proflt:
20Z5
1024
Loss before taxatlon
(42,331)
Exi)ected tax charge at 19%
Effect of capltal allowances & Impalrments
Effect of losses from earller years
Total
(8,043)
9,162
(550)
569

50 Association for Cultural Enterprlses Annual Report 2024-25
12. Tanglble Fixed Assets - Group and Charity
Cyroup
Coinputer
Equipment
Groiip
Total
Charlty
'otal
Computer
Equipment
Cost
At i Aprll 2024
Additions
Dlsposals
At 31 March 2025
20,817
1,355
20,817
1,355
20,817
1,355
20,817
1,355
22,172
22,172
22,172
22,171
Dcpreclation
At i Aprll 2024
Charge for the year
Dlsposals
At 31 March 2025
14,689
2,873
14,689
2,873
14,689
2,873
14,689
2,873
17,562
17,562
17,562
17,562
Net bookvalue
At 31 March 2025
At 31 March 2024
4,610
6,128
4,610
6,128
4,610
6,128
4,610
6,128
2025
Group
2024
Group
2025
Charity
2024
Charlty
Current asset Investments
Sliort terni deposlts
100,000
100,000
Investments In short term deposlts have an orlginal maturlty date of 12 months.
The average interest rate Is 4.85%.

51 Association for Cultural Enterprises Annual Report 2024-25
13. Debtors
2025
Group
2024
Group
2025
Charity
2024
Charity
'rade debtors
Amounts owed by Group undertakings
Corporatlon Tax recoverable
Other taxes recoverable
Other debtors
Prepayments & accrued Income
Total
96,105
29,527
45,572
56,798
5,859
36,442
12,710
200
200
17,699
113,804
49,808
92,245
10,028
112,398
25,209
67,710
14. Creditors: Amounts Falling Due Within One Year
2024
Group
2025
Groiip
2025
Charity
2024
Charlty
Trade creditors
Other taxatlon & Soclal Securlty
Other creditors
liicorne In advance
AcLruals & deferred lijcome
Total
78,610
22,090
1,780
85,775
52,923
241,178
46,177
8,436
1,612
49,400
26,761
132,386
17,972
8,703
1,780
58,360
22,851
109,666
19,419
7,867
1,612
35,142
25,361
89,401
15. Summary of Funds
Brought
Forward
Income Expendlture
Transfers
Carrled
Forward
General bunds
192,435
975,490
948,795
219,130
Total
192,435
975,490
948,795
219,130

52 Associotion for Cultural Enterprlses Annual Repoi't 2024-25
16. Analysis of Net Assets Between Funds
Unrestrlcted
Funds
Total Funds
2025
Total Funds
2024
Group
Tanglble flxed assets
Curront assets
Creditors less than one year
Total
4,610
455,699
(241,178)
219,130
4,610
455,699
(241,178)
219,130
6,128
318,693
(132,386)
192,435
Charity
Tanglble flxed a.ssets
Current assets
Credltors less than one year
Total
4,611
321,820
(109,725>
216,706
4,611
321,820
(109,725)
216,706
6,128
273,283
(89,1,01)
190,010
17. Related Party Transactlons
There are no related party transactlons to disLlose (2024: nll).
18. Reconciliatlon of Net Income l (Expenditure) to Net Cashflow
from Operatfing Actlvities
2025
Group
2024
Group
2025
Charity
2024
Charity
Net Income l (expendlture) for the year
Interest recefivable
Gainlloss on dlsposal of ffixed assets
Accrued expenses
Depreciatlon of tanglble fixed assets
(Increase) I decrease in debtors
(Increase) I decrease in credlEors
Taxation charged
Totaj
26,695
(6,615)
(144,352)
(979)
(169)
48,071
2,148
2,873
(19,959) (44,688)
42,884
20,265
569
(71,767)
26,695
(4,863)
(101,452)
(614)
(wg)
23,611
2,148
6,912
7,373
2,873
(21,559)
108,792
110,186
282
(62,171)

53 Association for Cultural Enterprlses Annual Report 2024-25
19. Analysis of Cash and Cash Equivalents
2025
Group
2024
Groiip
2025
Cliarlty
2024
Charlty
Cash In hand
Notlce deposits
Total
341,895
126,448
100,000
226,448
209,363
105,573
100,000
205,573
341,895
209,363
20. Subsidlaries
These flnancial statements are separate charlty financial statements for Cultural
Enterprises (Tradlng) Lirnited.
Detalls of the charlty's subsldiarles at 31 March 2025 are as follows:
Name of undertaklng
Cultural Enterprlses
(Trading) Llmited
Reg. no. 08690077
Registered office
B7 Castle Gardens, Stanhope
Bishop Auckland DLI3 2FJ
Nature of business
Professional membershfip
organlsatlon
Class of shares held
£1 Ordlnary
held direct Indirert
Capital & reserves
2,425
Profltl(Joss) for the year

ssoEotsfuo
QOFCULTURAL
ENTERPRISES
culturalenterprises.org.uk