Case Studies

Long-time friends Lauren and Hannah set up the first Craft + Common studio in 2023, with a mission to create a vibrant community space where people can socialise and have fun and have grown rapidly since then.

After 13 years in the army and 17 years working on offshore oil rigs, veteran Mike decided to turn his passion for golf into his career and set up a virtual golf venue.

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.

Evelyn Ecology Ltd., a Manchester-based ecological consultancy, has secured a total of £12,000 through the Start Up Loans programme, delivered by GC Business Finance (GCBF) on behalf of the British Business Bank.

Altrincham-based Wuva, a pioneering platform committed to sustainable subscription services, has secured £50,000 of finance from the British Business Bank through Virgin Startup. The investment catapults Wuva into a new phase of expansion, poised to reshape the landscape of conscious consumerism.

Lisa Storey, founder of EZ Hampers, a sustainable gift company which sources sustainable products solely from positive impact businesses.

Tom Newey, aged 22 helped start his business with a Start Up Loan. Established in 2020, his award-winning dessert business, Layers Treats offers handmade Belgian chocolate treats for all occasions

Leo Winstanley founded Hand-i-Craft, based in Formby, after losing the ability to use his dominant hand and arm in a car accident. Now, it is a successful woodworking shop, stocking handmade items, finishes and accessories that are sold online.

Robin Valley, co-founded by husband and wife entrepreneurs Wanchong Chen and Liang Zhang, is a wooden jewellery brand that combines innovation, sustainability, and unique design.

Brett’s Pets is a family-run pet shop, based in Chorley, Lancashire. It provides customers with a range of pet foods and products along with information and husbandry advice on most animals and exotic reptiles.

Daniel launched his business, Escapism Manchester, in August 2016 and works full-time at the premises with six members of staff.

Former steelworker Mark Fairley has launched his own traditional American BBQ business in a bright yellow high school bus.

Jacqueline Moran, a mum and entrepreneur based in Wirral, used her Start Up Loan to set up The Sewing Room, which offers expert clothes fitting and alterations.

Laura Burlison from Northumberland received her Start Up Loan 18 months ago and used it to start 'The Paddock – Fresh Food Delivered from the Land to your Hand.'