StartUp Brixton is back after a year’s break on 23 June. Emma Lange explains how young entrepreneurs can learn how to turn an interest into an income by attending the event.
StartUp Brixton is a one-day event that engages entrepreneurial young local residents in workshops, one-to-one business surgeries and pitching events. In 2016 more than 158 entrepreneurs and independent businesses took part. This year’s event is designed to show 18–30-year-olds what it takes to start a business and the tried and trusted techniques to make it sustainable.
It takes place at Pop Brixton, and is open to anyone with or without an established business idea.
“As long as you are proactive, energetic and ambitious, you have all the qualities of a go-getting entrepreneur,” says event organiser Laura Mahler.
“This event will show you some of the options to hone those qualities and build the skills and networks to turn passions and interests into an income.”
Workshops will cover mapping a business plan; engaging content for social media; and communicating your vision effectively to become a leader among your network. It will also focus on building confidence and resilience through the ups and downs of business life and connect like-minded people in Lambeth in a support network.
People taking part can find inspiration and encouragement by hearing from Lambeth-based entrepreneurs who started out like them and are now running successful businesses. The event is organised by Hatch Enterprise, a charity based in Loughborough Junction.
Since 2013, Hatch has supported more than 500 entrepreneurs through its business support programmes, including Brixton businesses: Sensala creperie in Brixton Village, Make Do and Mend in Pop Brixton, Brixton Soup Kitchen, Snact, a social enterprise based in Brixton.
“It is a really exciting time for the start-up scene in South London,” says Lisa Wilson, Hatch’s young enterprise programme manager. “Lambeth is home to a wealth of creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. Through our programmes, we have seen many innovative and exciting ideas that young people are bringing to life.”
Tickets are £15, with half priced bursaries available to anyone who can demonstrate financial need. Find out more and buy tickets at: hatchenterprise.co.uk/startupbrixton.
