Kickstarter for Greater Manchester Budding Entrepreneurs

During difficult times it is often time for reflection and change.  The COVID 19 Pandemic is no different with many finding their circumstances changing dramatically.  Whether furloughed from work, finding themselves out of work for the first time in a long time, or juggling multiple roles, it will no doubt have meant many are questioning whether now is the time to look at a different way of working.

Self-employment for many is a dream they keep in their back pocket wondering if they could ever take a leap.  The draw of managing their own hours, being their own boss or driving a business in the way their values see fit can be appealing.  But knowing how to go about it and understanding what is involved can sometimes be daunting.

For residents of Greater Manchester the opportunity to pull this dream out of their pocket and truly evaluate whether starting a business is the right step for them comes in the form of 'Kickstarter Manchester'.  Part funded through European Regional Development Fund as part of the 'Excelerate Labs' business support programme, this seven day challenge launches next week and will cover all aspects of getting your idea off the ground.

With a mix of live zoom mentoring and bitesize online learning that can be picked up at your own pace, the flexible programme invites those living in Greater Manchester with a business dream to see if they can turn it into a reality across a 7 day start up challenge.

Led by enterprise experts Mike Marsden and Ameena Ahmed the Kickstart Manchester programme will include:

Day 1


Morning - LAUNCHPAD 11am-12pm


Welcome and Introduction. Live on zoom, meet your expert mentors, set some 7 day targets, network with other Greater Manchester residents looking to start a business


Afternoon – SET YOUR STRATEGY


Led by business growth expert, use business strategy tools to set out your business vision and goals. Take part in this activity at a time that suits you.


Day 2 – SUPERCHARGED SOCIALS


Let’s Get Social 😊 Two stage Twitter course. From the Do’s & Don’ts to winning business on Twitter and harnessing it as a tool for PR. Join in at a time that suits you.


Day 3 – FINESSE YOUR FACEBOOK


Are you confident you would know how to build your audience on facebook ? We will show how to beat their algorithms in everything from set up a to how to generate enquiries for free! Flexible learning time.


Day 4 - I CAN INSTAGRAM


Instagram is fast becoming a tool businesses can't ignore. But how do businesses stand out and ensure they are reaching their client base? Join this expert session to find out at a time convenient to you!


Day 5 – SAFEGUARD YOUR STRATEGY


Strategy Planning – Every business needs a plan to get ahead. A fancy marketing plan is great, but what underpins your model to ensure it survives and thrives? Join this session to find out.


Day 6 – SEO MADE SIMPLE


Whether using a website or web presence how do you get your business found online? Unpick the mysteries of Google with our expert.


Day 7 – MENTOR ME 11am-12pm


Final group mentoring session to re-cap learning, including and expert Q & A, let’s celebrate our completing the programme and get your questions answered.


Anyone interested in booking can do so here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/kickstarter-manchester-the-7-day-start-up-challenge-tickets-109290107654