ABOUT US
Business Launchpad:
Empowering Young Entrepreneurs
At Business Launchpad, we believe in the boundless potential of young people. Founded in 1988, our mission is to provide dedicated business support to young individuals aged 16-30 living in London, helping them to become future leaders by enhancing their business mindsets, skills, and financial prospects. We are committed to breaking down barriers and providing the tools needed for entrepreneurial success.
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Our approach is holistic and personal. We offer one-to-one business support sessions, interactive workshops, and comprehensive programmes designed to meet the unique needs of each aspiring entrepreneur. Whether you're just starting to toy with a business idea or you're already running your startup, BLP is here to support you every step of the way.
A Community of Future Leaders
Our mission goes beyond business support. We aim to create a nurturing environment where young entrepreneurs can thrive. By improving their business skills and mindsets, we also help them build meaningful networks and better their financial prospects. We believe that every young person deserves the chance to become a leader in their own right, regardless of their background or circumstances.
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BLP is not just an organisation; it is a community, a family, and a launchpad for dreams. We are proud to have supported countless young entrepreneurs over the years, witnessing their journeys from uncertainty to confidence, from ideas to impactful businesses.
Vision
Equipping and empowering marginalised young people to become entrepreneurs through the support of a diverse network of people, businesses and organisations all working and succeeding together.
Mission
Developing vibrant community assets, supporting local people, businesses and organisations to thrive, and providing business skills and wellbeing coaching to marginalised young people.
Values
At Business Launchpad, our holistic approach to enterprise is guided by five core values that shape everything we do. Our trained business coaches, along with our dedicated BLP partners, share a passion for creating future leaders. Together, we have helped hundreds of young people build their businesses and transform their lives.
Accountability
We are transparent and responsible, always delivering on our promises.
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Collaborate
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We believe in teamwork, working closely with our partners and community to create a supportive network.
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Grow & Learn
​We champion continuous growth and learning, encouraging young entrepreneurs to embrace challenges and develop their skills.
Young People at the Heart
Young people are central to everything we do. We tailor our programmes to their unique needs, ensuring their voices are heard and potential realised.
Motivate & Inspire
We inspire and motivate by sharing success stories and celebrating achievements, fueling confidence in young entrepreneurs.
Impact
The impact of Business Launchpad has been transformative, profoundly influencing the lives of young people and the broader community. Engaging over 1,000 young individuals, BLP has provided them with crucial opportunities for personal and professional development.
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In the last year, with more than 500 hours of dedicated one-to-one coaching, participants have gained valuable guidance and mentorship, empowering them to navigate their career paths and achieve their goals. Additionally, the provision of several office spaces has enabled ambitious entrepreneurs to establish and grow their businesses in a supportive environment.
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Financial support has also been a cornerstone of BLP's impact, with £10K distributed in micro-grants to fuel innovative projects and ideas. The community's generosity is evident in the £30K raised through crowdfunding, underscoring a collective commitment to fostering youth potential and entrepreneurship. These combined efforts reflect BLP's dedication to creating lasting, positive change.
Join Us In Making
A Difference
At BLP, we know that transforming young lives takes a collective effort. We invite you to join us in this vital mission. By volunteering your time, skills, or resources, you can help us empower the next generation of entrepreneurs. Your support can make a tangible difference in their lives, enabling them to overcome barriers and achieve their dreams.
Awards
Best Charity of the Year (Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce 2024)
Certified Social
Enterprise
London Youth
2022 - 2025
Board of Trustees
Chair
Olu Olanrewaju is a chartered surveyor with an MBA and part of the Directors Programme at Cranfield Business School.
Trustee
Simon has over 40 years work experience. For the first 5 years he worked for large IT companies.​
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Vice Chair
James Wall has a background in Commercial Banking with a particular focus on the Charity...​
Trustee
Hayley Butler is Head of Marketing and Communications at The Reading Agency...
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Trustee
William Sceats is a Management Consultant with comprehensive experience of transforming ...
Trustee
Pavitra Raja is the Programme & Engagement Lead on Social Innovation at the World Economic Forum.​
Trustee
David Gordon is a solicitor who is advises businesses on wide range of commercial legal issues.
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Trustee
Bianca Riemer is an executive coach who works primarily with professionals in the financial services sector...​
Trustee
Akta is an experienced investor, with more than 10 years of experience in the start-up/venture capital space.
Trustee
George is a project management consultant specialising in mixed-use major projects in central London.​
Executive Leadership Team
Felicia Mattis-Rome
Chief Executive Officer
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Louise Cook
Director of Operations
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Hareg Tamiru
Head of People & HR
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Miguel Hinds
Finance Lead
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Miranda Stirling
Head of Strategic Operations