Jump to content

James

Administrator
 View Profile  See their activity

  • Posts

    541

  • Joined

  • Last visited

  • Days Won

    10

  • Startup Credits

    4,525 [ Donate ]

 Content Type 

Everything posted by James

  1. James
    until
    An entrepreneurial community for high-achievers to collaborate, stay accountable, and grow—where bold ideas come to life. You’ve always thought bigger, moved faster, and aimed higher—but the people around you didn’t always get it. Your ambition was called “too much,” your ideas “unrealistic,” and your drive left you feeling like the odd one out. You’ve craved real conversations about business, creativity, and pushing limits, but instead, you often found yourself stuck in small talk that drained you. "The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do." That’s why we created ProductivityBears—a community for serious action-takers, bold thinkers, and ambitious doers. Here, you’ll meet people who push you, challenge you, and actually understand what you’re trying to build. No fluff, no time-wasters—just real connections with like-minded entrepreneurs ready to take action. Join us on February 27th in Central London for an evening of high-energy networking, collaboration, and big ideas. Free event with only 30 spots available, so grab your ticket now! To join this event, you must fill out our community form. Joining the community is optional, but we use the information about your background and business objectives to deliver a better, bespoke event experience for you. Attendee Description: 20-35 years old. At various stages of business journey, but mostly within the first 5 years of starting up. Founders, local business owners, and professionals attending. From diverse industries, including marketing, fintech, AI, supply chain, food and beverage. Why You Can't Miss This Event: Relaxed vibes and friendly atmosphere. Get introduced to people by our attending team! Exclusive networking social at a central London location. Meet fellow founders, entrepreneurs, and professionals from a variety of industries and walks of life. Agenda: 10am-11am: Welcome & Networking 11am-11.15am: Introduction to ProductivityBears 11:15am-11:45am: Interactive Discussion: Maximising the Value of Community 11:45am-2pm: Open Networking
  2. James
    Hey @ScottyT. – great shout! The King's Trust Enterprise Programme is genuinely one of the better starting points if you’re between 18 and 30 and looking to test a business idea. That £500 grant can go a long way when you’re validating a concept or buying your first bit of kit. Definitely recommend putting together a simple business plan with clear goals and how the money would make a difference – they like to see impact and clarity. @Valerian – totally agree with you, mate. It’s a bit frustrating that the age cap is 30. There are loads of talented folks with great business ideas later in life. If you’re still exploring grant options, I’d recommend checking out the New Enterprise Allowance (NEA) or some of the local LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership) grants if you're UK-based, or similar schemes if you're in the States. Also, we’ve got a list of grants for all ages right here on Startup Networks – worth a browse! Would love to hear what kind of ideas you’re both working on, too
  3. James
    Great insights from both of you! @Harper – Using freelancers to scale while keeping overheads low is a smart move, especially in the early stages. Platforms like Upwork can be great for flexibility, but I imagine consistency and reliability can sometimes be a challenge. Have you found any particular hiring strategies that help you vet freelancers more effectively? @Rodey – Totally agree that getting team input is crucial when it comes to culture. Too often, companies impose values or processes that don’t resonate with the team, which can backfire. Have you had any experiences where team feedback led to a major change in how things were done? From our side at Startup Networks, we’ve seen a mix of strategies work well: Hybrid hiring: Combining freelancers for specific tasks while slowly building an in-house team for core functions. Transparent communication: Making sure everyone understands long-term goals, which helps align freelancers and full-time staff alike. Culture-first hiring: Bringing in people who fit the startup mindset, even if their skill set isn’t a perfect match. Curious to hear if anyone else has had experiences—either positive or negative—when trying to scale their tea
  4. James
    Hey Rodey, You're not alone in feeling concerned about the changes to farming grants and subsidies. The UK has been shifting away from the old Basic Payment Scheme (BPS) towards the Environmental Land Management schemes (ELMs), which focus more on sustainable practices. Many farmers have found it challenging to adapt, especially smaller-scale ones. If you have acreage in the Midlands and want to turn it into something productive, you might want to look into: Sustainable Farming Incentive (SFI): Offers payments for soil health, hedgerow management, and sustainable practices. Countryside Stewardship: Supports environmental conservation efforts. Farming Investment Fund: Helps with equipment and technology upgrades. It depends on what kind of project you're considering—diversifying into agro-tourism, regenerative farming, or even something like rewilding for grants. If you're put off by the uncertainty, speaking to a rural business advisor or checking with DEFRA’s latest updates could help clarify options. Would love to hear more about what you're thinking of doing with your land! James
  5. James
    We're working on something like this! We do run events routinely, we just posted another the other day.
  6. James
    Exciting times ahead with graduation coming up! It’s great that you’re already thinking about entrepreneurship—getting started is always the hardest part, but also the most fun. A good first step is to pick one idea you’re most passionate about and start validating it—talk to potential customers, see what problems they face, and figure out if your idea solves them. The sooner you start testing, the faster you'll learn what works (and what doesn’t). Berry’s got a great point—any idea in particular you’re leaning towards? Happy to help however I can!
  7. James
    Totally get where you're coming from! When it's your business, it’s hard not to have a hand in everything – after all, you’ve got the vision, and you want it done right. One thing that helps is hiring people you trust and setting clear expectations upfront. Giving them the freedom to figure things out can actually lead to better results (and save you a ton of stress). Also, instead of overseeing every little thing, maybe set up regular check-ins – that way, you stay in the loop without hovering. Any specific areas you’re finding hard to let go of?
  8. James
    I've lost so much to cryptocurrency haha
  9. James
    Going into it knowing the investors and information about them makes it much easier!
  10. James
    We're almost finished writing your journal post!
  11. James
    until
    Join us for an epic evening of networking, investor connections, and open mic pitching at The Startup Events London on February 26th, 2025! The Genius Circle & Leadership Fireside Chat Agenda 16:00 - 16:30 Registration and Networking Kick off the session by registering and connecting with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. 16:35 - 16:40 Welcome and introduction 17:00 - 18:00 Genius Circle 18:00 - 18:30 Networking Grab a drink and catch up. 18:30 - 19:30 Leadership Fireside Chat 20:00 - 00:00 (+1 day) Drinks at the Pub London Startups, Get Ready! An event that’s anything but ordinary! "Igniting Ideas & Insights for Early-Stage Ventures" In collaboration with Barclays Eagle Labs, we are thrilled to bring you an exclusive gathering of visionary founders, leadership experts, and startup trailblazers. Master the Art of Leadership in Your Startup Join renowned leadership experts as they share game-changing insights on how to lead, scale, and inspire in the fast-paced startup world. Plus, experience the Genius Circle, where the audience becomes your advisory board, providing real-time feedback and solutions to your startup’s biggest challenges. Pitch Your Startup & Gain Expert Insights Are you building something great? If your company has an MVP or prototype and is either raising its first round of funding or has already secured £250,000+, this is your chance to take the stage! What to Expect: Five selected startups will deliver a 3-minute pitch to a live audience. Each startup will present a challenge they need help overcoming. The Genius Circle will step in—an interactive session where the audience and experts collaborate to provide valuable feedback and solutions. Limited Pitching Slots – Apply Now! If selected, you’ll receive further details via email. Don’t miss out! Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Exclusive Access – Only 70 Spots Available! This is an intimate and high-impact event—secure your spot now and connect with London’s most dynamic startup minds! Check your inbox for updates & application details! Picture this: a room filled with 70 brilliant minds, each with the power to shape the future of your startup. The Genius Circle isn't just another networking event; it's a dynamic platform where entrepreneurs unite to tackle challenges and unlock opportunities. Our mission is clear: to harness the collective genius of our community to help you overcome obstacles and propel your business forward. Whether you're seeking fresh ideas, marketing insights, investor readiness, or general support, this is the place to be! Here's the scoop: Up to Seven startups will take the stage, each armed with a five-minute pitch and a challenge for the audience. But wait, there's more! After the pitch, it's Q&A time, where the audience gets to grill the presenter with burning questions. Once the interrogation ends, it's time for the magic to unfold. The pitcher steps back, ears wide open, as the audience pours out their wisdom and advice. Expect laughter, insights, and a few "aha" moments as we dive into the nitty-gritty of startup life. But remember, folks, this isn't just about giving; it's about receiving too. We're all here to learn, grow, and elevate each other to new heights. So come prepared to share, connect, and leave with a fresh perspective on the possibilities ahead! Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind event that's shaping up to be the talk of the town! Event Highlights: · Pitch your startup in front of a supportive audience · Receive valuable feedback and insights from industry experts · Connect with potential investors, mentors, and collaborators · Explore new ideas and solutions to overcome business challenges · Expand your network and forge meaningful connections Why Attend? Unlock Insights: Gain unparalleled insights into the challenges, trends, and triumphs of the startup world from experts who have walked the talk. Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded individuals, industry experts, and potential collaborators during interactive networking sessions. Learn from Failures: Hear real, unfiltered stories of startup failures and the invaluable lessons learned, providing a roadmap for avoiding common pitfalls. Discover Unconventional Strategies: Explore unconventional approaches and strategies employed by successful entrepreneurs to stand out in a saturated market. Future Trends: Get exclusive insights into the future of the UK startup ecosystem and stay ahead of the curve. Interactive Q&A: Engage directly with the panelists during the interactive Q&A session, ensuring your burning questions are answered. Leadership Fireside Chat Leadership in Startups: Navigating Growth & Challenges An exciting conversation with: Chet Hiriani - Executive Performance Coach, TedX Speaker & Founder Executive Performance Coach, TedX Speaker & Founder @ NYOC - Straight Talking: Shaping Senior Management into being Nothing But Leaders, Businesses to Outperform, Grow From Failure & Achieving 10x Results. Steph Melodia - Entrepreneurship made actionable | Public Speaker & Host of Top 20 Business Show 🎙 | Award-winning founder Steph Melodia is a renowned Marketing Leader, Keynote Speaker, and **Founder of Bloom, a top-20 UK startup marketing agency. Recognized as one of the UK's Top 20 Most Influential Female Founders by Startups Magazine, Steph has a proven track record in driving business growth through innovative marketing strategies. Dean Williams - Senior Business Consultant, Goldsmith University Dean Williams, the seasoned Senior Business Consultant at Goldsmith University, will be at the helm of this thought-provoking conversation. With a passion for advancing individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, Dean's extensive experience in business advisory and consultancy provides a unique lens through which he navigates the intricacies of the startup landscape. - ----------------------------------------------------------------- Who should attend? This event will be of particular interest to: Founders, co-founders, and entrepreneurs Solopreneurs Venture capital, angel investors Investment leads, managers, or associates - ----------------------------------------------------------------- About the Organiser - The Startup Events Website: thestartupevents.co.uk A Thriving Startup Community Driven by Founders, for Founders At The Startup Events, we're not just an event organiser; we're a bustling hub where founders help fellow founders. Our mission is to illuminate the ever-evolving digital tech ecosystem, creating a seamless platform for governments, investors, and tech companies to connect and collaborate with our esteemed members. Within our vibrant community, you'll discover a diverse blend of startups, scaleups, late-stage businesses, academia, and representatives from the public sector. By nurturing these varied relationships, we foster an environment that incubates innovation and cultivates productive partnerships. Join us in this exciting journey, where knowledge is shared, networks expand, and opportunities flourish. Be a part of The Startup Events, where growth, innovation, and collaboration thrive hand in hand. Sponsors & Supporters: RCK Partners Tax Consultancy Specialising In Innovation Funding & Property Tax We are a London-based tax consultancy, specialising in tax-saving services including R&D Tax Relief, Capital Allowances, Business Rates, Patent Box, Land Remediation and Enquiry Support Services. Odev.Tech Odev.Tech Offering world-class software development services, featured in FORBES magazine and our goal is to make sure we deliever expectional softwware for everyone one of our clients. You can have a look at our extensive portofolio here: https://odev.tech/portfolio And our extensive capabilies here: 01.Software, App and Web Development 02.CTO on-demand 03.UX/UI Design 04.Dedicated Teams 05.Project Based Model 06.Staff Augmentation Share Your Startup Story on the Startup Journal! Are you an entrepreneur with a story to tell? This is your chance to inspire and connect with the startup community! What’s in it for you? Raw Startup Stories: Real challenges, breakthroughs, and lessons. Founder Spotlights: Insights from those shaping industries. Expert Advice: Actionable tips from investors and mentors. Global Reach: Your voice shared across Startup Networks. Interested? Tick the box on Eventbrite or reach out to us—we’d love to feature you! - ----------------------------------------------------------------- Want to sponsor us? Interested in sponsoring us? We're thrilled to offer sponsorship opportunities for our dynamic event. By becoming a sponsor, you'll gain valuable exposure to a vibrant community of founders, investors, and industry enthusiasts. Your support will play a pivotal role in making this event an unforgettable success. Get in touch today to discuss how we can showcase your brand and amplify your presence within the startup ecosystem. E -mail Address: Hello@thestartupevents.co.uk - ----------------------------------------------------------------- Important notice: We take great pride in the high-quality connections that our events offer. We have a fair number of tickets available for the entire startup community, including founders, startup employees, investors, and others (students, accountants, lawyers, aspiring entrepreneurs, and other companies servicing startups). Please only book tickets that are applicable to you. We will verify your details and upon the results might cancel your booking. If Eventbrite runs out of tickets for your category, please join the waiting list or email events@thestartupevents.com, and we may be able to add you. Just to clarify, when we say startups, we mean scalable businesses looking for investments now or planning to start soon. For example, if you are a self-employed marketing specialist, please register as "Other" rather than as a "Founder".
  12. James
    Government startup loans are one of the best funding options for entrepreneurs looking to launch or scale their businesses. With lower interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and additional support, they provide a great alternative to private lenders or venture capital. But how do you qualify, and what’s the application process like? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about securing a government-backed startup loan. What Are Government Startup Loans? Government startup loans are financing options backed by the government to support new businesses. Unlike grants, these loans must be repaid, but they often come with lower interest rates, longer repayment terms, and mentorship or business support services. Key Features: ✔ Low-interest rates compared to private lenders. ✔ Flexible repayment terms (often up to 5-6 years). ✔ No early repayment fees. ✔ Available to businesses with little or no trading history. ✔ May include mentorship or additional support. Example: In the UK, the Start Up Loans Scheme provides up to £25,000 per founder to eligible entrepreneurs, with free mentoring and business guidance included. Who Can Apply for a Government Startup Loan? While eligibility varies by country and programme, here are common requirements: New or Early-Stage Businesses: Typically, your business should be under 2 years old. Business Plan & Financial Forecasts: A solid business plan demonstrating feasibility and growth potential. Creditworthiness: While not as strict as traditional banks, lenders may still check your personal credit history. Registered Business Entity: Some schemes require official business registration before approval. Residency Requirements: You must often be a resident of the country offering the loan. Tip: If your business isn’t yet registered, consider forming a sole proprietorship, partnership, or limited company before applying. Types of Government Startup Loans by Country Each country has its own startup loan programmes. Here are some major options: United Kingdom – Start Up Loans Scheme Funding: Up to £25,000 per founder (up to £100,000 for teams). Interest Rate: Fixed at 6% per annum. Repayment: 1 to 5 years, no early repayment fees. Extras: Free business mentoring for 12 months. Website: www.startuploans.co.uk United States – SBA 7(a) Loans & Microloans Funding: Up to $5 million (SBA 7(a)) or $50,000 (microloans). Interest Rate: Varies but generally lower than private lenders. Repayment: 6-10 years. Extras: May require collateral for larger loans. Website: www.sba.gov Australia – New Enterprise Incentive Scheme (NEIS) Funding: Low-cost loans for eligible startups. Extras: Training, mentoring, and allowances for up to 39 weeks. Website: www.business.gov.au Tip: Research government-backed startup loan options in your specific region as local economic development programmes may have additional opportunities. How to Apply for a Government Startup Loan The application process varies, but most follow these steps: Step 1: Prepare Your Business Plan Lenders want to see: ✔ A clear business concept and target market. ✔ Revenue projections and cash flow forecasts. ✔ How you will use the loan. ✔ Repayment strategy. Step 2: Check Your Eligibility Ensure your business meets the funding criteria, including location, age, and financial health. Step 3: Gather Required Documents You’ll typically need: ✔ Business registration documents. ✔ Personal and business bank statements. ✔ Financial forecasts. ✔ Credit history details. ✔ Legal and tax documents. Step 4: Submit Your Application Most government startup loans allow you to apply online through dedicated portals. Step 5: Attend an Interview (If Required) Some programmes may require a phone or in-person interview to assess your business viability. Step 6: Receive Approval & Funding If approved, funds are disbursed, and repayment terms begin as agreed. Pro Tip: Government startup loans can be competitive—ensure your application is well-prepared and free of errors. Pros & Cons of Government Startup Loans Pros ✔ Lower Interest Rates – More affordable than private loans. ✔ Longer Repayment Terms – Reduced monthly payments. ✔ No Collateral (in Some Cases) – Some loans are unsecured. ✔ Additional Support – Free mentoring, business resources. ✔ No Equity Loss – Unlike venture capital, you keep full ownership. Cons Strict Eligibility Criteria – Not all businesses qualify. Lengthy Approval Process – Applications can take weeks or months. Limited Loan Amounts – May not be enough for high-growth startups. Credit Checks Still Apply – A poor credit history may reduce chances of approval. Tip: If you don’t qualify for a government startup loan, explore alternative funding sources like angel investors, crowdfunding, or revenue-based financing. Alternatives to Government Startup Loans If a government loan isn’t the right fit, consider: ✔ Angel Investors & Venture Capital – Funding in exchange for equity. ✔ Crowdfunding – Platforms like Kickstarter, Crowdcube. ✔ Revenue-Based Financing – Repayment based on earnings. ✔ Small Business Grants – No repayment required. ✔ Peer-to-Peer Lending – Loans from private investors. Final Thoughts: Should You Apply for a Government Startup Loan? A government startup loan can be a game-changer for early-stage businesses, offering affordable financing with valuable business support. If your business meets the criteria and you have a solid plan for repayment, it’s a great option to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey. Need Help Navigating the Process? Connect with mentors, advisors, and investors on Startup Networks to get expert guidance on securing the right funding for your business. Find a Mentor Here
  13. James
    Thank you so much Pandora, glad someone's reading the Q&As I had great fun writing them! I bet that was a great trip, USA is known for their barbeques!!
  14. James
    until
    ULTRA.VC is excited to collaborate with Sofia Drobychevska, founder of DeepSync_EU, to empower impact-driven founders with the tools they need to secure equity-free funding and scale this year. Sofia is a certified EU fundraising consultant and a masterful grant consortium builder with over 8 years of experience in the startup ecosystem. In 2024 alone, she helped startups secure more than €3M in funding through programs like Horizon Europe, EIC, and EIT. And as an EU Commission grant evaluator, Sofia brings insider knowledge of the decision-making process — offering unique perspectives on how startup proposals are assessed and what it takes to stand out. What We Will Cover: • Navigating the Grant Landscape: An overview of EU and CEE funding opportunities, including Horizon Europe, EIT, EIC, and national programs. Discover new trends and opportunities for 2025. • Understanding EU Grants Eligibility: Learn what types of EU grants exist, which startups are eligible, and the key criteria they must meet to qualify for grant funding. Common misconceptions will be clarified, providing definitive answers on eligibility. • Crafting Winning Proposals: Key strategies for structuring proposals that stand out in competitive grant applications. Learn how to build consortia with universities and startups to enhance your grant prospects. • Startup Proposals Evaluation: Discover the most common mistakes in grant applications and the 5 main steps grant commissions use to evaluate startup proposals, ensuring they are both competitive and eligible. Exclusive Bonuses for Attendees: • Access to a curated Notion workspace featuring a detailed list of the most relevant and sought-after grant opportunities for startups in early 2025. The database includes: - Categorization by Sectors and Startup Directions: Find what suits your project quickly and effectively. - Comprehensive Descriptions: Each grant includes detailed requirements, eligibility criteria, and key details. • Discount for DeepSync_EU services
  15. James
    startup-events-tiktok-london-2025-01.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

  16. James
    startup-events-tiktok-london-2025-01.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

  17. James
    startup-events-tiktok-london-2025-02.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

  18. James
    startup-events-tiktok-london-2025-03.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

  19. James
    DSC_4725.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

  20. James
    DSC_4702.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

  21. James
    DSC_4696.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

  22. James
    DSC_4686.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

  23. James
    DSC_4661.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

  24. James
    DSC_4659.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

  25. James
    DSC_4655.jpg

    © Corporate London Photography

Startup Networks

Startup Networks is an online startup forum dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs, startups, and industry leaders. We provide a platform for collaboration, mentorship, and growth through our events, grants, and expert resources.

Navigation

Our Services

Our Partners

Join Us

×
×
  • Create New...

Important Information

Terms of Use Guidelines We have placed cookies on your device to help make this website better. You can adjust your cookie settings, otherwise we'll assume you're okay to continue.