Supporting entrepreneurial growth

Success story: AFTA Studios

Summary:

  • Partner: AFTA Studios
  • Sector: Private, small start-up business
  • Challenges: Study to fit in with other commitments and personal challenges, find support to grow the business
  • Solution: Open Business Creators programme from The Open University (OU), plus a Design and Innovation degree programme
  • Outcome: Increased entrepreneurial skills and knowledge, mentoring and coaching from experienced entrepreneur, increased opportunities via new connections

Background: Addressing inequality for female entrepreneurs

A lack of funding for entrepreneurs, especially all-female businesses, means they often experience inequalities and fewer opportunities.

Two football fans - Becca and Jade - founded AFTA Studios after spotting a significant gap in the market for fan art and merchandise for women’s football.

They were both already experiencing the benefits of studying with The Open University, with Becca enrolled on a Design and Innovation degree programme.

This flexible format is ideal for me as it allows me to balance my studies with my mental health challenges, providing the support I need to thrive academically and personally.

Becca Harvey,
Co-Founder/Digital Creative, AFTA Studios

Support to take those first steps

The Open University’s Open Business Creators programme, which has grants from Higher Education Innovation Funding and Santander Universities, is available to people across the UK looking to learn about creating their own business.

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The power of mentorship

A key element of the Open Business Creators programme, is the support provided to participants by the OU’s Entrepreneurs in Residence.

This experienced group shares experiences and practical advice, for example, by helping to set-up meetings with their own connections.

I think their creativity really jumps out. Their designs are brilliant. But help on legal and business aspects can make a difference and empower people to proceed with their ideas. Sometimes it is just about giving encouragement when needed

Mags Byrne,
Open Business Creators, Entrepreneur in Residence

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Conclusion: Open Business Creators provides fast-track success for entrepreneurs

The Open University’s Open Business Creators programme provides entrepreneurs with the opportunity to gain invaluable advice and support, which not only delivers results but also takes businesses to the next level.

The apprenticeship programme from The Open University offers flexibility and exceptional learning for the individuals and provides young people or those lacking in skills with the chance to develop their careers, in exchange for being willing to commit.

Growing our business and securing more contracts is an incredibly rewarding experience.

Becca Harvey,
Co-Founder/Digital Creative, AFTA Studios

The additional studying for the Design and Innovation degree programme meant that both the business and Becca could benefit greatly.

The course is instrumental in equipping me with essential skills for managing the business aspects of our art venture. While Jade typically handles the business logistics, the course is helping me develop a stronger understanding of this side of the business. It encourages creative and innovative thinking, which is crucial for our growth and success.

Becca Harvey
Co-Founder/Digital Creative, AFTA Studios

Let's solve your skills challenge together

The Open University has a dedicated team of employer and partnership managers who can work with you to upskill and reskill your teams via a range of courses and programmes.

Whether you are a new business or an established employer, our team has a wealth of sector expertise and experience and can link you with our wider academic community to help to solve your organisation's challenges.

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