Product Development
Client
BE THE BUSINESS
Industry
Business
Support
Services
Category
Executive Education
Leadership & Management
Challenge
​
In the UK, solopreneurs, freelancers, sole traders, and small business owners from ethnic minority backgrounds face significant hurdles. These entrepreneurs, who often lead teams of up to 10 employees, encounter unique challenges that traditional business support programmes fail to address. They struggle with accessing tailored business knowledge, securing finance, and gaining visibility in mainstream business networks. This lack of practical, accessible business education and support leads to an uneven playing field in business acumen and decision-making skills, ultimately hindering their growth and success.
​
Ethnic minority businesses (EMBs) significantly contribute to the UK economy, adding approximately £25 billion annually. However, they face substantial barriers, including difficulties in accessing finance and being detached from mainstream business support networks. These challenges are compounded by structural inequalities, such as those brought to the forefront during the COVID-19 pandemic.
​
Process
The development of IGNITE followed a user-centric approach. We began with customer research, conducting 20 in-depth interviews to understand the needs and behaviours of our target audience. This helped us identify the core problem: the lack of practical, accessible business education for ethnic minority entrepreneurs.
Next, we brainstormed and prototyped solutions, collaborating with business leaders to refine our ideas. We then partnered with creative and software agencies to develop the product's brand identity and the Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Finally, we tested the quiz with business leaders, gathering feedback to refine it before launch.
Solution
IGNITE is a seven-minute online quiz designed to enhance decision-making skills for solopreneurs and small business owners. It provides quick, relevant learning and context-specific insights, offering practical steps for immediate application. The quiz adapts to various learning styles, including articles, business canvases, podcasts, plans, and checklists.
​
Available online, IGNITE ensures accessibility and scalability, making valuable business education tools available to all, especially those with limited time. This approach empowers small business owners to improve their operations and achieve their business goals
Additional products
2
Business 360 Assment Tool
The 360 Business Survey offers a comprehensive evaluation tool for business leaders striving to gain deeper insights into their organisation's dynamics. It uniquely combines peer reviews with self-assessment, enabling leaders to understand varying perspectives and pinpoint areas for development. This holistic approach facilitates informed decision-making, driving performance improvements across all levels of management.
3
Small Business Balanced Score Card
Our Small Business Balanced Scorecard is an essential tool for business leaders aiming to achieve streamlined management and enhanced strategic focus. This customisable framework links business objectives with actionable metrics, providing a clear path towards operational efficiency and sustainable growth.