Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Liana Fricker, Founder of Inspiration Space, located in Woking, Surrey, United Kingdom.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Inspiration Space is a venture studio and Founder community for ambitious small business owners, freelancers, and 'Companies of One.' We work with a diverse network of specialists, investors, and experienced entrepreneurs to help the next generation of conscious capitalists start smart, grow sustainably, and scale up with the climate in mind.
Tell us about yourself
When I originally started Inspiration Space, it was to provide an alternative to traditional networking groups for small businesses. Instead of cold pastries, 8 am meetings, and awkward introductions, I curated experiences and workshops in collaboration with independent venues and local hidden gems. However, I soon realised that there was an even bigger gap in the entrepreneurial education space. And so, in 2020, I joined forces with two experienced entrepreneurs looking to invest their knowledge in the next generation of Founders - and so Inspiration Space 2.0 was born.
What motivates me is an unshakeable belief that entrepreneurship is the foundation of progress - especially when people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences are given the inspiration, education, and confidence to build with purpose and profit in mind.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Startups Magazine recently recognised me as one of the '22 Most Influential Women of 2022.' And I was invited to deliver my first TedX: Inspiration is an act of Resistance. Since 2020 our members have achieved 30% revenue growth year-on-year, raised over £1M in investment, and joined venture-backed accelerators like TechStars and Antler.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Focus and self-compassion. My drive and ambition often mean I am my hardest critic.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- You CAN'T be everything to everyone. It's not only unrealistic but also a recipe for burnout. I'm still not great at saying 'no,' but boundaries are becoming clearer. My current mantra: good is good enough.
- Ask for help BEFORE you need it. It's even easier when you surround yourself with people who complement your skillset and help you fill in the gaps. This has been key as part of delegating is learning how to trust other people to fly the plane to free you up to focus on the most important things.
- Create space for JOY. Founder life is tough - it's not surprising that 75% of us experience challenges with our mental health - and it's also a learning experience. Surround yourself with people who feel like sunshine to keep your inspiration tank full.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.theinspirationspace.co/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theinspirationspace.co/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/theispco
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/theinspirationspace/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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