Can you tell us a little about your background and your company?
I’m curious, and I like to help. This has driven my career. It’s been a gradual process, but I’ve carved out a bit of a niche as I specialise in helping organisations maximise their impact across sectors. I run a full-service marketing agency for charities, helping not-for-profits raise money, and I help businesses demonstrate how doing ‘good stuff’ actually drives profit in the commercial sector. I spend a lot of time speaking to people from different sectors, and I suppose I see my role as being one that shares insights between organisations—a silo buster, I suppose. A dedicated gossip for good?
What inspired you to start your business?
I’ve always been passionate about bringing people together. We don’t need to reinvent the wheel to create meaningful change, but it helps if the wheels are greased, and the road is as smooth as possible. I saw a gap between businesses wanting to “do good” and actually measuring the impact of their social contributions as well as partnering with charities or other organisations who were actually doing the do. I wanted to bridge that gap—helping companies not only give back but also understand the tangible value of doing so. My work allows me to connect purpose-driven businesses, charities, and communities in ways that drive real outcomes.
How did you create awareness for your brand?
I realised that asking questions and really listening is key. Then, passing the baton (or information) on to people who can benefit. Sort of like pass-the-parcel, with networking being the party. I started speaking at events over ten years ago, cheering on best practice and encouraging people to collaborate. Off stage, I love simply making introductions—I thrive on creating connections. I’ve built my reputation in the charity sector and now within the business community in Greater Manchester and beyond. As a cross-sector consultant, I’m lucky to have some brilliant conversations, and I never underestimate the power of a great chat over a glass of wine.
What strategies helped you secure funding and scale your business?
I focus on articulating value in a way that resonates with both businesses and funders. The ELG framework that I’ve developed, for example, provides a compelling case for businesses to invest in social value because it directly ties back to financial benefits.
In terms of securing funding, I’ve learned that it’s not just about numbers—it’s about storytelling. People invest in what they believe in, and being able to communicate how my work creates tangible change has been essential. People have invested in paying for the training I provide because they see the value in what I have to offer. I also prioritise collaborations—working with like-minded partners who amplify the work we do. And, of course, persistence and building genuine relationships have been key.
What have been your biggest successes so far?
- Speaking at the International Fundraising Conference in 2022 – Speaking to organisations from across the world and talking about how to build brilliant teams through great communication was a privilege.
- Helping businesses turn social good into commercial strategy – I’ve seen firsthand how companies shift from “giving” to strategically embedding impact in their operations, and the Employee Living Gain framework I’ve developed is something I’m very proud of.
- Music for the Senses – An exciting art installation coming to Manchester in the summer of 2025, and I’m thrilled to be involved with that.
- My work with Forever Manchester – My role has been to spread the word about asset-based community development and how businesses can engage with grassroots initiatives.
- My network – I take immense pride in the relationships I’ve built. Connecting people who then go on to create impact together is one of my greatest achievements. When someone tells me that an introduction, I made led to something incredible, that’s when I know I’m doing something right.
What challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?
One challenge is convincing businesses that social impact isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a competitive advantage. Some organisations still see CSR as a side project rather than a strategic priority. To overcome this, I focus on data, storytelling, and clear financial outcomes.
Another challenge has been maintaining momentum while juggling multiple roles. I’ve learned that knowing when to say ‘no’ is just as important as saying ‘yes’—focus is key! I also surround myself with a strong support network—having the right people in your corner makes all the difference.
What are your plans for the future?
- Expanding ELG adoption – I would love to see more businesses using ELGs as a key decision-making tool.
- Scaling impact-driven partnerships – More collaborations between businesses, charities, and communities to drive sustainable change.
- Speaking and thought leadership – I intend to take my message to bigger stages, like IFC 2025, to help shape the global conversation on social value.
- And, of course, more fun along the way—more laughter, more mischief, and more unexpected opportunities!
What advice would you give to aspiring female entrepreneurs?
- Own your network – Your success will be built on relationships. Make connections, introduce people, and be known as a connector.
- Trust your instincts – If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Don’t be afraid to pivot.
- Know your worth – Never undervalue what you bring to the table, whether it’s your ideas, experience, or influence.
What are your top three tips for entrepreneurial success?
- Collaboration is key – Success is never a solo journey. Work with others and find ways to create mutual value.
- Be clear on your impact – Whether pitching to investors, partners, or clients, make sure they understand why your work matters.
- Stay playful – Business can be serious, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. Energy, curiosity, and a little bit of mischief go a long way!
Who are five people who inspire you the most, and why?
- Naomi Timperley – A powerhouse when it comes to supporting startups and female entrepreneurs. She shows how supporting others can create a ripple effect of success.
- Suzanne Valadon – For proving women can hold their own in male-dominated spaces in this case, a female painter. Valadon became the first woman painter admitted to the Société Nationale des Beaux-Arts, in 1894.
- Dame Stephanie Shirley – A trailblazer who built a tech empire by empowering women.
- Enriqueta Rylands – A visionary who used her wealth to create a legacy of knowledge and accessibility and her dead husband’s wealth from mills and turned it into an iconic library in the centre of Manchester. The first building to have electric lights in the city.
- My Gran – She raised eight children, then built a care home business in the 1980s, which not only brought people together but sold for £1.6m. She taught me resilience, business acumen, and the power of community.
What are your favourite inspirational or motivational quotes?
- “The five people closest to you are your network and net worth.” – It’s not just about who you know but how you nurture those relationships.
- “Find what you love, and do more of that.” – Because passion fuels everything.
- “If opportunity doesn’t knock, go hunting for it. Build doors that need to be opened.” – A reminder to take control and create your own path.
- “A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.” – It’s a great reminder that generosity and connection make us all stronger.
