Success Story
| Region/Nation | South West |
|---|---|
| Programme | Start Up Loans |
Joe Brady took out a £10,000 Start Up Loan in two parts in October 2020 and January 2021 to launch Essence of Hartland, an eco-friendly home fragrance brand.
Previously working in marketing technology in London, but always having had a side-interest in naturally sourced products, when Joe left his London job in 2019 he decided it was the perfect time to pursue his dream of being his own boss.
Before the pandemic the business survived by selling products at local community markets, so when those had to stop due to lockdown restrictions, Joe focused on growing the business online instead. While they lost out in some areas of business, Joe was pleasantly surprised to find that the growth in UK staycations last summer actually helped Essence of Hartland reach a completely new audience and expand their online presence.
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Restoration of Wales’ last working windmill sees sails turn again on Ynys Môn. Melin Llynon is restored to former glory following funding from Isle of Anglesey County Council and British Business Bank
Read a success story about BKW CrossFit
A group of four friends have joined forces to launch BKW CrossFit, a new community-based gym in East Bristol, with the help of a Start Up Loan from the British Business Bank.
Read a success story about Krapow Thai Restaurant
Phil enjoyed a 17-year career in the British Army. He met his Thai partner Chanisara seven years ago and that sparked their dream to open a restaurant together. Chanisara started serving her cuisine with a Thai food stall in the town’s central market and discovered that demand was high for her freshly made products. The Start Up Loan of £24,000 they secured via X-Forces Enterprise (XFE) was key to making their dream a reality.
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