Empowering Entrepreneurs: How Antur Cymru is Transforming Mid Wales’ Business Landscape

In the heart of Mid Wales, a wave of entrepreneurial spirit is flourishing, thanks in large part to the unwavering support of Antur Cymru. This organization has become a beacon for start-ups and entrepreneurs, providing essential guidance, advice, and funding opportunities that are helping businesses break new ground and thrive. Among the many success stories emerging from this initiative are three remarkable companies: Beyond Breakout escape rooms, Keridwen Garden Design, and Seren Handmade. Each of these businesses is not only a testament to the power of determination and creativity but also plays a vital role in bolstering the regional economy.

A Supportive Ecosystem for Start-Ups

Antur Cymru has established itself as a crucial player in the Mid Wales business ecosystem. By offering resources such as the Powys Growth Grant, the organization has enabled numerous entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality. The support provided by Antur Cymru is particularly significant for women-led businesses, which are increasingly becoming a driving force in the local economy.

Beyond Breakout: A Journey of Resilience

One of the standout examples of entrepreneurial resilience is Beyond Breakout, an escape room business founded by friends Lorna Morris and Jo Woodall. Launched just weeks before the Covid-19 pandemic struck the UK in 2020, the duo faced unprecedented challenges. However, with the guidance of Antur Cymru, they adapted their business model to focus on mobile escape rooms, allowing them to reach a wider audience.

“The last five years have been a rollercoaster ride,” Lorna reflects. “But with Antur Cymru’s support, we were able to pivot our business and create a sustainable model.” Their innovative approach has led to successful partnerships with schools and a diverse clientele seeking unique team-building experiences. The outdoor escape rooms, particularly popular among Year 6 students transitioning to high school, have been a hit, showcasing the adaptability and creativity that define Beyond Breakout.

Keridwen Garden Design: Cultivating Growth

Another inspiring story comes from Kathleen Robinson, founder of Keridwen Garden Design. With over two decades of experience in sustainable horticulture, Kathleen took a leap of faith to pursue her passion for gardening. Antur Cymru played a pivotal role in her journey, assisting her in crafting a comprehensive business plan and securing funding to purchase essential equipment.

“I had spent so long advocating for the benefits of being outdoors and connecting with nature that I decided it was time to do it myself,” Kathleen shares. Despite launching her business only recently, she has already built a waiting list of clients eager for her unique gardening services. Her approach emphasizes collaboration with clients, fostering confidence in their gardening abilities while simultaneously building her own confidence as a new business owner.

Seren Handmade: Stitching Success

In Newtown, Lauren Garbutt has also experienced significant growth with her business, Seren Handmade, which specializes in bespoke personalized clothing and embroidery. With the support of Antur Cymru, Lauren has expanded her operations, purchased new equipment, and even moved into the Antur Cymru Trading Space at Bear Lanes Shopping Centre.

“Emma Jehu from Antur Cymru reached out to me, and the support has been incredible,” Lauren explains. From grant information to marketing strategies, the guidance she received has been instrumental in her business’s success. As she looks to the future, Lauren envisions expanding her workspace and hiring staff to help her reach even more customers at events and shows.

The Ripple Effect on the Local Economy

The success stories of Beyond Breakout, Keridwen Garden Design, and Seren Handmade are not just individual triumphs; they represent a broader trend of economic revitalization in Mid Wales. Emma Jehu, a business advisor at Antur Cymru, emphasizes the importance of these ventures: “Helping people take an idea or concept to reality and achieve their dreams has a knock-on effect for the economy in Mid Wales.”

Antur Cymru’s commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs is vital for fostering innovation, creating jobs, and enhancing the overall economic landscape of the region. By empowering individuals to pursue their passions, the organization is helping to build a more resilient and diverse economy.

Conclusion: A Call to Action for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

As Mid Wales continues to witness the blossoming of new businesses, Antur Cymru remains a steadfast ally for those looking to embark on their entrepreneurial journeys. Whether you are a seasoned business owner or a budding entrepreneur with a dream, the resources and support available through Antur Cymru can help you navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business.

For more information about the services offered by Antur Cymru, visit their website at www.anturcymru.org.uk or connect with them on social media @AnturCymruWales. You can also reach out directly by calling 01239 710238 or emailing info@anturcymru.org.uk. The journey to success begins with a single step, and with the right support, your entrepreneurial dreams can become a reality.