#GODO

 

As a small business we are conditioned to look for opportunities. It may be the next client, the next grant, the next idea or the next relationship. Last year, during an event found through the Brighton Chamber and held at the Sussex County Cricket ground it was Entrepreneurial Spark; a business accelerator like no other and one that concentrates specifically on developing the business leader. In partnership with NatWest and KPMG, Entrepreneurial Spark is a force to be reckoned with and can significantly improve the business leader’s chance of success.

 

There are many benefits to entering into the Entrepreneurial Spark program. Free office space (known as the hatchery) along with electricity, printing and Wi-Fi are the headliners. They help you to operate in a professional environment and stay lean at the same time. Mentoring and enablement by some pretty special people. This allows you to discuss business with people that understand and offer your poor partner a break from listening to your many ideas and challenges. For me, the opportunity to collaborate with like minded people in a professional workspace is the biggest win. The energy in the hatchery is difficult to articulate. It’s a special place and the relationships that are being built are priceless.

 

Since starting the program 3 months ago it is incredible to reflect back on the progress made.  Our processes have sharpened up, the quality of referrals has improved significantly and the relationships that have developed from the space grow stronger each week. I have a clearer vision of where my business is heading, who our customers are and the services we offer. Brighton Chamber and representatives from The University of Brighton are located in the hatchery and offer invaluable advice, knowledge and networking opportunities. 

 

The application process is painless.  The first step is to head on over to the Entrepreneurial Spark website and fill out the application form. You will be invited to attend an appointment where you will meet with other applicants and be asked to deliver a 1-minute pitch on your business to two members of the Entrepreneurial Spark Team.  Demonstrate that you want to grow and scale your business and you have a #GODO attitude and you have given yourself the best possible opportunity to join the program.

 

If you’re thinking about applying my advice is to do it. You can arrange a tour of the office space and get a feel for the kind of opportunity on offer. Having run different businesses for 7 years I can say this is the single biggest opportunity I have ever experienced. The benefits are difficult to quantify. 

 

If you have any questions about program, please feel to get in touch. My contact details can be found here www.avanthometechnology.co.uk.  

 

For me, it is a privilege to share the same space as these people. Running your own business can be a pretty lonely place. The hatchery resolves this. The sense of team spirit is enormous, the constant support is unrivalled and the opportunity to grow your business and succeed is limitless. Give it a go. #GODO.