Be your own boss

Depending on your current situation, starting your own business might seem like a very daunting prospect, or you might feel that there are just too many barriers standing in your way.

Take Lisa Harker, who chanced upon an article about Outset Cornwall’s business start-up support programme when leafing through the pages of a newspaper one day.

“I’d decided to take voluntary redundancy with a view to setting up my own business. It was a scary prospect, but I really wanted to do something I believed in and I’d become so dissatisfied with the corporate world,” says Lisa.

“As I was waiting for an appointment with my solicitor to sign my leaver’s agreement, I read the article. I made the call to Outset that day and the rest, as they say, is history.”

Originally from Yorkshire but now permanently resident in Cornwall, fine artist Lisa creates individual, unique pieces of art and furniture with a love theme and an environmental ethos.

Having always loved painting and exhibiting her work, Lisa was lucky enough to be featured in a national women’s magazine, which described how every time she is commissioned to do a painting for someone, the person finds love. The feature provoked such a storm of interest, it gave Lisa the confidence to open her own gallery, Lisa Harker Quirky Art, in Truro.

Lisa admits that the support she’s had from Outset Cornwall has played a pivotal role in her business progression and success.

“I don’t think I could have done this without Outset; the business course is short, but it’s excellent and gives a complete grounding. Plus, Outset helped me successfully apply for funding that I couldn’t have obtained from the bank. The main aspect however has been the support; Outset has some phenomenal people and I am forever grateful for the encouragement I received.”

Starting out on your own can seem daunting, but Outset Cornwall is on hand to offer expert support every step of the way, as you focus your ideas and then start, run and grow your new business.

Whether it’s an initial chat with a friendly and knowledgeable business advisor, attending specialist online workshops on subjects such as social media and building a website, or helping you secure finance for your new enterprise, Outset’s flexible fully-funded programme is a must-have for every new business owner.

Outset Cornwall has helped hundreds of people throughout the county get their business off the ground, overcome their barriers and, with a little additional support from the Outset team, achieve their goals.

Want to know if Outset could help you? Visit www.outset.org/cornwall to find out more or get in touch by emailing cornwall@outset.org.