CHAOS breeds creativity, but those in the artistic fields say that having direction in their work is equally important.
That's why Mr Kenneth Li, 28, the brains behind a free anime-software tool, feels that mentorship is crucial in helping start-ups like his turn their ideas into reality.
He told my paper: "Like any business, we're concerned about getting our products out to the market.
"It's not just creating something. You also need to find the resources to carry the venture through."
Hence, the managing director of frontedgecapital applauds initiatives like Creative Community Singapore (CCS), which supports creative start-ups with funds and business-development courses.
Mr Li received a substantial grant for his Anime Character Creator, a software that lets users create their own manga or anime-style avatar from a selection of features, such as body shapes and clothing types.
Each part can be customised, so that the creator ends up with a unique character for download or exchange on social-networking sites.
Users also get free items, which they can sell to earn points or redeem for more graphics.
The software took two programmers and an artist two to three months to create.
Mr Li said the team is looking for more artists to join the project and beef up its existing range of options.
Added the Harvard-educated anime fan: "Going at it alone can be difficult, so teamwork and interaction with a community of like-minded people is definitely a morale-booster."
Besides funding support, budding entrepreneurs get to attend a six-month course - the Professional Diploma in Creative Entrepreneurship (PDCE) - that details various stages in business development, from crafting a proposal to project management and legal knowledge.
For Ms Lois Ng, 44, gaining CCS guidance gave her extra impetus to continue on her social entrepreneurship mission.
The creator of Tile Story works with disabled individuals to produce a range of gifts using painted tiles.
In the process, the artists pick up the necessary skills to lead normal lives.
One of Ms Ng's signature lines is the Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew collectibles, with his likeness imprinted on mosaic tiles.
Said Ms Ng: "I'm trying to take history and heritage into the marketplace, which is highly unusual."
She was highly encouraged to continue with her work when CCS came into the picture to support her second project, one which involves Singapore's 10 founding fathers.
Like Mr Li, Ms Ng admitted that venturing off the corporate path was a challenge.
When the former journalist started her Studio You company eight years ago, many naysayers doubted its sustainability.
Ms Ng credits the PDCE programme with boosting her skills and business knowledge.
"Networking with people who have the expertise to help has given me more confidence in building my business."
