Northamptonshire’s Vulcan Creatives business incubation programme has welcomed 11 new aspiring entrepreneurs as part of its third cohort.
First launched in 2023 by the team at Northampton’s serviced workspace, Vulcan Works, the free six-month innovative programme offers successful applicants the opportunity to kick start a new business or grow an existing idea with specialist support.
The programme is led by Vulcan Works’ on-site business growth manager Darren Smith and applications opened in the summer, with 11 businesses chosen from almost 50 entries. Those who were successful are:
- Anna Hamilton, a website developer
- Danny Langford, a former primary school teacher who has created a mobile app to motivate children to build meaningful reading habits
- Deepak Chawla, providing software solutions to the travel industry
- Helen Staniforth, a training business specialising in public speaking
- Jack Young, owner of an indie games studio focusing on improving accessibility in gaming for disabilities including dyslexia, cognitive and visual input disorders
- Joe Benno, who runs a video production company
- Mikaella Rees, who offers laser tattoo removal alongside a range of vegan friendly, chemical-free, natural skincare products
- Oluwatoni Oluwole, offering content creation for small businesses
- Rebecca Timmins, who has developed an online resource for families in Northampton, helping them to discover local events, attractions, activities and nearby businesses and services
- Simeon Worrell, providing nutrition and fitness solutions for individuals
- Tom Myers, the creator of a UK-based app designed to boost the use of sports courts – such as basketball – by enabling users to easily book facilities and connect with friends to play.
Throughout the six-month programme, the cohort will receive dedicated workshops and business support activities, learning the skills needed to succeed in the world of entrepreneurship.
Speaking of the launch of the third cohort, Darren said: “As someone who has started and sold businesses alongside mentoring firms for more than 20 years, it’s great to work collaboratively to help individuals start up a new business, create a new product or service or take on staff in West Northamptonshire.
“We choose new businesses that are either start-ups or just established and are predominantly based in Northamptonshire or the surrounding areas.
“It’s lovely to see the range of sectors that are represented this time round. From skincare brands to basketball apps, to nutrition and fitness, it’s going to be really exciting for us all to be working together.
“We also invited members of the previous two cohorts to come along to the launch to support everyone at the start of their journey. It was fantastic to see old and new faces in the room together, sharing experiences and ideas.
“I can’t wait to see how our 11 new entrepreneurs develop as we move through the six-month programme.”
Those enrolled on the Vulcan Creatives initiative also receive free access to the Vulcan Works facilities during the course of the programme.
