Entrepreneurial Spark reveals Manchester plan

ENTREPRENEURIAL Spark, which is developing a network of free business accelerators, is to open a facility in Manchester next year.
 
The so-called ‘Hatchery’ will be based on Hardman Boulevard, Spinningfields, and will offer free space, support and advice to fledgling businesses.

The brainchild of Scottish businessman Jim Duffy, there are already incubators in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Bristol, Brighton and Leeds.

The venture,  launched in 2011, is expanding further across the UK with the help of partners NatWest/Royal Bank of Scotland and KPMG.

Applications are now open for ambitious small firms to join the latest Hatchery.

Jim Duffy, said: “Our model for helping early stage businesses has proved extremely successful, helping more than 350 companies to create over 1,000 jobs and £41m in turnover last year, when we were operating from just three Hatcheries in Scotland.

“People considering setting up a business or at an early stage consistently tell us that support and advice is what they need most, and with small companies undoubtedly being the lifeblood of the economy and creating the majority of jobs, this support is crucial to cementing a balanced and sustainable recovery. That’s why we are rolling out our Hatcheries to other hubs of business and entrepreneurialism in the UK, and we have chosen Manchester as an excellent place to support ambitious small businesses.”

The Manchester Hatchery will open in February 2016. Entrepreneurs can now apply for the accelerator programme, with the successful applicants, being put through a bootcamp before being given free space.

Alison Rose, chief executive of Commercial and Private Banking at NatWest, said: “In partnership with Entrepreneurial Spark, we are delighted to be launching a free business accelerator Hatchery in Manchester, with more to follow across the UK over the coming two years. This will give thousands of entrepreneurs free facilities, free business advice and supporting networks to ensure they are given the best possible chance of success.”
 
Ian Moffatt, head of national narkets at KPMG, said: “While the idea of being your own boss may sound tempting and even glamorous, the reality is that for many people, starting out on your own and taking that leap into the unknown can be a truly daunting, and even lonely experience.

“This is why the support and guidance provided by Entrepreneurial Spark is so vital.”