The Global Entrepreneurship Network would like to recognize Graham McKendrick, our new Startup Huddle Ambassador based in Oldham, for his leadership and mentorship of startup ecosystem builders across Greater Manchester, UK. Startup Huddle would not be possible without the dedication and commitment of our ambassadors in guiding organizers as they launch chapters to build and strengthen their local entrepreneurial ecosystems.
How would you describe your role in your local startup community?
As manager at Oldham Enterprise Trust, my aims are to help the next generation of entrepreneurs get startup businesses off the ground and also support young people to be more enterprising.
What made you want to open and run a Startup Huddle chapter?
Startup Huddle provides a consistent gathering where startup and growth companies can come together and access the wide range of resources, support and business funding that is available. It offers a great opportunity for local entrepreneurs to network and help each other on their journey.
What can you tell us about your local ecosystem? What are some similarities and differences to other ecosystems around the world? Try to share specific examples if you can.
Oldham was recently named as one of the top ten entrepreneurial towns in England. It is an enterprising place with a local ecosystem made up of budding entrepreneurs with ideas plus well-established businesses that offer their expertise and support. We are grateful to have committed contributions from the local authority, business growth companies and funders who also offer advice and guidance.
Oldham has seen industrial decline and has areas of high deprivation. However great efforts are being made to regenerate the town both physically and in terms of skills and aspirations. Our ecosystem is similar to that of others around the world in that we have some similar industries, concerned with meeting global goals and that our entrepreneurs have similar challenges and successes. What makes us different is that we are a very close community, and we all strive to work towards local aims together. Our ecosystem is made up of a committed partnership which wants success for the town and is prepared go the extra mile to help each other by way of direct help, referrals or expertise and knowledge.
What do you hope to achieve through Startup Huddle? What have you achieved?
At Startup Huddle Oldham we hope to achieve a strong network of entrepreneurs who can drive the local economy and support each other in an ecosystem that is self-sustainable. We have managed to bring together an average of 24 attendees each month since our first session held 10 months ago. On average, 48 per cent of our attendees are participants who are returning after a previous session and we are continually attracting more interest.
If you had to pick out one highlight from all of your Startup Huddle sessions, what would it be?
One of our most impressive entrepreneurs, Kelly Tracey, from Bring Me Sunshine CIC, blew us away with her powerful and stunning voice. After seeing a close family member suffer after a stroke and noticing how music made a profound connection, she embarked on a quest to set up an organization to bring sunshine to peoples lives. Kelly and her team now use this to brighten the days of those most in need.
How has Startup Huddle impacted your local startup community?
Startup Huddle has given our local startup community a manageable model that has offered incentive and excitement to our local entrepreneurs. It has offered a gathering where local entrepreneurs can meet up and share their experiences, allowing for a locally driven economy that also generates community connections. It has offered hope and success to many and our participants look forward to each gathering every month.
Can you share an example of how Startup Huddle has had a positive impact on a specific entrepreneur or company in your community?
Startup Huddle Oldham has had a significant impact on one of or female entrepreneurs, Kim Van Belois, from Fresh Beleaf Integrity CIC, who has expressed that without our support and the unique ‘closeness’ of the community she would not have progressed a much as she has. It has been the key point of contact for accessing information and guidance and finding the solutions she needed to achieve each step as it came. She has produced a product that she is able to bring to market and has began generating income, ensuring great contributions to both local social value and the practical implementation of the global goals.
Graham's story is just one of the many success stories we’ve had with Startup Huddle so far. I’m proud of our progress and look forward to working with aligned community partners, sponsors, and change-makers in building more vibrant entrepreneurial communities in England and beyond.
For more information about Startup Huddle or to find a session near you, visit www.startuphuddle.co.