Investec Beyond Business
Our award-winning support programme for emerging social enterprises in east London helps get great business ideas off the ground.
Applications are open, closing 7th May 2021 at 5pm. Fill out an expression of interest form to apply or contact us to find out more.
Your business idea must have clear social purpose and the applicant must live in Tower Hamlets, Hackney or Newham.
What you’ll be doing
Image courtesy of alumni, Well Grounded.
This Spring, as we emerge with trepidation from the worst of the pandemic, we need fresh new business ideas to make the new normal anything but ordinary. That’s why Investec Beyond Business is seeking the best emerging social enterprises in east London providing hope as we start to look forward again.
If successful, applicants receive up to £20,000 in funding as well as training and support to help get great business ideas off the ground.
Since Investec became the sole funder of the programme in 2011, we’ve helped set up 50+ new social enterprises in Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Newham, 80% of which are still in business. 300 jobs have been created in east London and a combined turnover of £6m has been generated.
What we do
We seek out budding entrepreneurs who are committed to creating successful businesses that are both profit making and deliver serious social and/or environmental outcomes. We invite them to pitch their business ideas to the Investec Beyond Business ‘Dragon’s Den’ style panel. Successful applicants are then provided with up to £20k of investment funding as well as membership of the programme.
The combination of investment funding and skills support helps to ensure the entrepreneurs success in creating sustainable businesses.
We provide training and support in:
- Business planning
- Sales and marketing
- Financial control
- Becoming an employer
- IT for start-ups
- Pro bono legal help
Our achievements
We have a very successful track record with a realistic proven business model that creates lasting benefits. Since the programme was launched ten years ago, we have:
- Set up 50+ new social enterprises in Tower Hamlets and beyond
- Helped to generate a combined turnover of £6m
- Created over 300 new jobs in east London
- Fostered a dynamic network of enterprises that support each other
- Given budding local entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to create a social business
How to apply
To apply, fill out an Expression of Interest form below and return it by 5pm on 7th May 2021. For any questions about the programme please contact Kim.Hayman@bbbc.org.uk
Fair exchange
Dot Dot Dot
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is creating stronger communities.
More than food
Fat Macy’s
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is supporting people through cooking.
Bespoke mental health support
Find A Balance
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is supporting individuals and families who suffer with mental health issues.
Combating loneliness
InCommon
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is bringing generations together.
Flexible operations
Supply Yoga
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is helping socially isolated Londoners find some peace.
Striving for the best
Tutors United
How one of our Investec Beyond Business social enterprises is helping pupils from low-income backgrounds get ahead.
