Next Generation: free start-up course for young entrepreneurs aged 16-30

Next Generation: free start-up course for young entrepreneurs aged 16-30.

These free courses from Next Generation are for aspiring entrepreneurs aged 16-30, dreaming about starting their own business, developing an existing business idea, or setting up a side-hustle.

The free course will run in London, Brighton, Birmingham, Manchester, Reading and Cardiff in Q1 and Q2. Find out more about Next Generation courses and course content here.

Testimonials from previous workshop attendees:

‘We attended the workshop and as a result we have launched our business! The workshops certainly

empower young start-ups and inspire businesses like us to dream big.’ Joe Taylo - EJ events

‘I loved the workshops, they empowered me to talk confidently to others about my business. I learnt so

much from Henry and heard from many inspiring speakers too. I left the workshops feeling happy,

inspired and energised. I would recommend the workshops to anyone aged 16-30 who want to start

something!’ Amy Hopson – Mindful Makes.

Sign up here.

Brighton entrepreneur opens luxury jewellery shop

Brighton entrepreneur opens luxury jewellery shop

Luxury jewellery shop, The Crop, has opened its doors in the North Laine area of Brighton with the support of a five-figure funding package from NatWest.

Entrepreneur and jeweller Kerry Huff has used £50,000 of finance from NatWest, alongside a personal investment of more than £150,000 to acquire a 10-year lease for the Sydney Street premises and complete an extensive retail fit out.

Funding from NatWest has enabled Kerry to undertake an extensive refurbishment programme, which includes bespoke fixtures and furnishings, as well as ensure the retail outlet is fully stocked. She has also created two therapy rooms on the first floor that will be hired out to holistic therapists for treatments such as homeopathy, acupuncture and reflexology, creating additional business revenue and fitting with the ethos of the business.

The Crop stocks elegant, handmade jewellery, as well as a selection of other bespoke products, including homewares, art and books. Kerry has used her 20 years’ experience in the jewellery industry to identify exclusive brands that offer high-end products for her customers. She will run the shop alongside a team of four staff and once The Crop is established, she hopes to offer commissions to design and make bespoke pieces for customers.

Kerry said: “As a trained jeweller, I have always wanted to combine my in-depth knowledge of the jewellery industry with my understanding of the design and production process, to launch my own business and open a store stocking individual and luxury pieces. The space showcases talented designers and makers, where the focus is on originality and craftmanship and for me is about creative communities and valuing the talent and process that goes into making beautiful products. As a business we also strive to be ethically responsible.

“Thanks to the funding from NatWest, I have been able to translate the vision into reality, creating a relaxing, welcoming, inclusive space where customers are free to browse and enjoy the shop. I look forward to showcasing my unique products and offering something different to Brighton’s North Laine community.”

Finance broker Jon Rooke-Allden at A & T Business Associates introduced Kerry to Heather Roberts, NatWest Relationship Manager, to support her with starting her first business.

Heather said: “Kerry is incredibly passionate about the business she has created and that is evident in her immaculately finished shop and the high-end products she stocks. With the funding we have provided, Kerry has been able to complete the crucial finishing touches to the store and we wish her every success as she welcomes customers over the coming months.”

Applications closing soon for Brighton’s fully funded Entrepreneur Accelerator

With a huge percentage of the Brighton economy being made up of small businesses, this thriving city has built up a solid support network for entrepreneurs, much of it fully funded.

Whether you’re at idea stage or you already have a fully fledged business looking to go worldwide, the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator has the most comprehensive support around. With co-working space, coaching, a network of mentors and specialists, and a community of entrepreneurs to share your journey with – it puts you in good stead to make your business a real success.

Applications are now open for the October intake of the NatWest Entrepreneur Accelerator, a 6 month programme designed to support you in growing your business, whether you’re at idea stage or looking to scale up and expand globally. 

The programme comes with free desk space in our state of the art co-working hubs, dedicated 1:1 coaching, access to the banks vast network of contacts, and a great community of entrepreneurs to share your journey with. It’s fully funded… so there’s no cost to you or your business.

Don’t hang around, applications close at the end August. Apply here today.

Or contact kristina.pereckaite@natwest.com to book a visit and find out more.