The Business of Mindfulness, a Worcestershire-based workplace well-being advisory company, has secured £17,500 funding from First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans under the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme to take the business to the next level.
Advising companies on creating sustainable workplace mental health strategies, The Business of Mindfulness uniquely considers both employee and employer needs. Employees receive support in reducing stress and anxiety and building resilience, while employers benefit from initiatives targeting absenteeism, retention, recruitment costs, and productivity.
Founder Chris Hopkirk, formerly a director in a small business, witnessed the struggles employees faced with stress and anxiety. Inspired by his own journey of embracing mindfulness, he became determined to assist small companies lacking resources to address mental health challenges. With newfound expertise as an accredited Breathworks teacher and First Aid for Mental Health instructor, Chris established a consultancy to offer essential skills and strategies for workplace wellbeing, giving birth to The Business of Mindfulness.
The funding from First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans has fueled strategic growth, with a focus on marketing initiatives such as website development, collateral creation, and participation in exhibitions.
First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans provides business loans ranging from £500 – £150,000, which are funded through several regional funds, for start-ups and SMEs that are unable to borrow from traditional high-street lenders. The not-for-profit organisation reinvests any surplus into loan funds to further support economic growth and job creation in the local communities.
Chris Hopkirk, Founder of The Business of Mindfulness, comments: “As an entrepreneur, I faced working capital and cash flow challenges despite having a strong business proposition. First Enterprise provided more than just a loan; they offered invaluable guidance. My business adviser, Forbes Lucas, helped me budget my business accurately and determine the sensible borrowing level. The support gave me time to grow sustainably, with regular updates aiding my planning. They are not just a lender, but also having an interest in my success.”
Forbes Lucas, Business Adviser at First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans, comments: “Insert commentary”.
First Enterprise – Enterprise Loans is an official Business Support Partner for the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loan Scheme within a network of business support partners, delivering Start Up Loans across the East Midlands, South East Midlands and West Midlands.