The University of Plymouth is searching for the South West’s most exciting new business ventures to join the GAIN20. This exclusive network helps dynamic businesses from Devon, Cornwall and Somerset to learn from one another and grow.
Selected by an expert panel, the members will be pioneering entrepreneurs with unique products or services and innovative problem solving skills. By supporting the most promising new business ventures, the GAIN20 aims to boost innovation and entrepreneurship across the region.
Members are invited join the exclusive network by the GAIN team at the University of Plymouth, PKF Francis Clark and Bright Solicitors. They will receive a 12-month package of support and opportunities including working with the University of Plymouth’s students, and tapping into its research opportunities and world-class facilities. Benefits also include attending networking and business events, and accessing advice and expertise from the region’s leading independent firm of accountants, Francis Clark, and award-winning law firm Bright Solicitors.
University of Plymouth Corporate Projects Manager Rich Adams said:
“The GAIN20 has proved that it can give businesses access to real experience and knowledge that you just can’t get online. It’s been great to see how the businesses have learned from one another and come up with solutions together. Great professional relationships and friendships have been formed. We are now searching for new businesses to join the network. We want to hear from the game-changers, the innovators, the creative thinkers. These are the businesses of the future and we are proud to be supporting them on their journey.”Martin Atkins, Partner at PKF Francis Clark, said:
"PKF Francis Clark is delighted to continue their support for the next phase of the GAIN20 journey. With a focus on start-ups and early years business we are able to assist with all aspects of accounting, taxation, funding and general business matters that we see these businesses face. The support offered via GAIN20 is extremely valuable and I'd encourage applications to be made by those ambitious local businesses requiring support, guidance and interaction with other positive people."Matt Cook, Partner at Bright Solicitors, said:
“Bright Solicitors is extremely pleased to be involved in this project with both the University of Plymouth and PKF Francis Clark. Start up businesses are crucial for the successful development of the South West’s growing business community. Supporting them in their early stages should ensure they get the advice and mentoring they need to not only launch their new business but succeed to grow in those crucial first months and years.”The GAIN20 was established in Spring 2016 and many of its inaugural members will stay in the network to share their experience with the new businesses.
Connor Handley-Collins, CEO of Plymouth-based virtual reality start up TruVision, was one of the first members. He said:
“Being part of GAIN20 has been one of the stand out highlights from the start-up year of TruVision. It has enabled us to understand how businesses in completely different industries handle situations. The GAIN20 gave us valuable business knowledge and advice that you couldn’t put a price on. The network has provided a shoulder to lean on, when times have been tough, and was able to support us in moving forward.”Another member of the first GAIN20, co-Director of Cornish start up Halto Lerryn Ryall, said:
“We became GAIN20 members after crowdfunding so were right at the start of building our business. We have had so much from the other members in terms of support on our journey and the networking opportunities afforded us. We were given the opportunity as a group to attend a sales workshop which gave us the confidence and skills to increase our sales. I cannot imagine a better or more supportive group of people to help each other move forwards in their own business journeys.”