Start up boost for entrepreneurs

Incubator houses new graduate entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs from London Business School have been given a boost to launch new business ventures.

The School’s Deloitte Institute of Innovation and Entrepreneurship has chosen 11 start-ups to join its Incubator programme. For a whole year, the School’s Incubator will house the graduate entrepreneurs who are launching their own businesses.

This year’s winning start-ups announced at the Institute’s Founder Awards dinner on 6 November, span technology, recruitment, fashion, leisure and horticulture. Each receives a one-year support package.

Allee Zhang, Founder of Baishe, a one-stop shop for Chinese consumers, offering fashion, lifestyle and designer goods, says: “We believe our luxury goods proposition is a new concept. This could be just the start of its journey in China.

“Creating and running a company is something I have always wanted to do. After years in management consulting, risk/project management and private equity, I decided that the time was right to pursue my ‘dream’ job.

I am learning every day and looking forward to learning more as Baishe grows. We are looking for mentors to provide guidance and to help us achieve our vision for Baishe.”

The support package includes:

• A cash injection
• Office space 
• Professional support from Deloitte, Landor Associates and London Business School alumni
• Access to training and workshops
• An invitation to the E100 members-only Annual Dinner event where entrepreneurs can network with angel investors, get advice on crafting pitches and showcase their business to E100 members

Participants will also learn from experienced Entrepreneur Mentors in Residence (EMiR) at London Business School.

Saleem Arif, Founder, QualitySolicitors and a mentor in residence shares his entrepreneurial experience: “Founding QualitySolicitors opened my eyes to a number of things. Staying focused on generating revenue means all non-core areas can be outsourced. Do not underestimate the power of PR – it brings substantial credibility to a start-up and was instrumental in the rapid growth of our business. Finally, every start-up has ups and downs – stay strong and enjoy the ride.”