About Us – Stoke Startup

Our Why: Empowering Stoke-on-Trent’s Dreamers

In a world where conformity often stifles creativity, we believe that the people of Stoke on Trent who dare to think differently deserve the confidence and tools to bring their boldest visions to life. Stoke on Trent is a place brimming with untapped potential, where innovative ideas can transform not just lives, but entire communities. At Stoke Startup, we’re on a mission to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs, those who dream big and think differently, by giving them the resources they need to succeed. We’re not just building a business; we’re building a movement where innovation thrives, and every visionary has the chance to make their mark.

Because when you succeed, Stoke on Trent succeeds. And that’s why we’re here.

Our Story: Born from Stoke’s Grit

Stoke Startup was founded by Ethan, a kid from a working-class family in Stoke-on-Trent who refused to follow the path of deprivation laid out for him. Armed with a Keele University degree and experience rising from intern to Business Operations Manager at a thriving SME, Ethan proved that Stoke has more to offer than the headlines suggest. Inspired by the government’s levelling up scheme, he created Stoke Startup to share the lessons and tools that fuelled his own success. This isn’t just one person’s story, it’s about unleashing a wave of young hustlers ready to rewrite Stoke’s narrative.

Our Vision

A Stoke-on-Trent that runs on technical innovation and big ideas. Imagine entrepreneurial startups pumping life into our economy, creating jobs, and tackling local challenges head-on. With opportunities like levelling up in play, we’re laying the groundwork for a city that’s unstoppable tomorrow.

Our Mission

To spark a youth-led revolution in Stoke-on-Trent. We’re here to arm you with free, no-nonsense resources, local expertise, and a network that’s got your back. Your business dreams? We make them happen together, brick by brick, until Stoke’s buzzing with your success.

Our Values

This is the heartbeat of Stoke Startup:

Levelling the Playing Field: Entrepreneurship isn’t for the privileged few. Our resources are free and built for Stoke’s own.
Smashing Stereotypes: Forget the “deprived” label, we’re here to show what’s possible when you bet on yourself.
Continued Development: Growth never stops. We’ll keep encouraging you to learn more, adapt, and win.
Stoke First: Your success powers our community. We’re stronger when we rise together.

How We Do It

We believe opportunity should never be limited by barriers, whether financial or something else. That’s why we provide free resources designed to nurture entrepreneurial skills and foster a supportive ecosystem for startups. Our approach is unique:

Education: Free online content and guides on business planning, marketing, product development, and more, tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts who understand Stoke’s unique vibe.
Community: Workshops, co-working, and networking events to connect you with peers, mentors, and potential investors.
Opportunities: Access to funding, pitch competitions, and other avenues to take your business to the next level.

As a private company, we balance our mission with commercial objectives just like you. This ensures we can sustain our work while helping you achieve commercial success. By supporting you, you in turn help us grow, ultimately creating a thriving ecosystem where everyone wins.

What We Offer

Ready to turn your vision into reality? Here’s how we can help:

Online Content: Learn at your own pace with free content on business fundamentals, marketing, product development, and more.
Mentorship Programs: Gain personalised guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs who want to see you succeed.
Community Events: Join workshops, co-working, and networking events to connect with Stoke’s entrepreneurial community.
Funding Opportunities: Access grants, loans, and pitch competitions tailored for Stoke-on-Trent startups.

Join the Movement

Stokes Startup is more than a resource hub, it’s a community of dreamers, doers, and innovators who believe in the power of Stoke-on-Trent. If you’re ready to take the first step toward turning your idea into a thriving business, we’re here to support you every step of the way, but in return, you must be willing to support Stoke.