Powering Progress: How Creative Studios in the South East Can Navigate a Shifting Economy

As the South East cautiously re-enters growth territory following a turbulent economic period, the creative industry — particularly video game developers and immersive tech studios — continues to stand out as a hub of innovation and global appeal. 

The latest NatWest South East Growth Tracker reported that while demand remains subdued, the region has moved just above the stagnation line. That modest growth is thanks, in no small part, to the resilience and adaptability of the South East’s creative businesses — many of which call Brighton home. 

At Plus Accounting, we work with a broad range of game developers, digital studios, and creative agencies. We understand the unique balance you’re trying to strike: investing in new IP, scaling sustainably, and staying financially agile in a market where funding, freelancers, and innovation all collide. 

Why your success matters 

Your games, experiences, and technology enrich not just the economy, but our culture and communities. The South East has one of the highest location quotients in computing and IT services, reflecting just how significant the creative sector is here. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to support creative businesses — not just with compliance, but with insights that help them grow, adapt and lead. 

Sector-specific challenges we understand: 

• Navigating VGTR and VGEC claims 

• Building out SPV structures for funding and IP protection 

• Managing multiple income streams (e.g. direct sales, publisher royalties, platform income) 

• Forecasting and cashflow for milestone-based funding 

• Staffing models blending in-house teams with international freelancers 

As your accountants and advisers, we’re here to do more than file your numbers — we’re here to help you build confidence in your next chapter. 

What we offer: 

• Expert VGTR & VGEC claim support with insight into SPV value strategies 

• Cashflow forecasting aligned to release schedules and funding tranches 

• Financial modelling for publishers and investors 

• Integration with apps like Xero, ApprovalMax, Dext, Chaser, and project management tools to streamline your workflows 

Our Brighton roots, your global reach 

Based in Brighton, we’re surrounded by some of the UK’s most innovative and influential studios — and we take pride in seeing our clients’ work reach audiences worldwide. Whether you’re scaling for Series A or creating your first commercial title, we believe your creativity deserves strategic, forward-thinking financial support. 

Your ideas move the industry forward. We’ll help you fund, manage, and grow them sustainably.

Author: Luke Thomas, Managing Director, Plus Accounting

Contact Luke

Any views or opinions represented in this blog are personal, belong solely to the blog owner and do not represent those of Plus Accounting. All content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. The owner of this blog makes no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information on this site or found by following any link on this site.

Date Published: 10 September 2025