Nearly six years working as a freelance journalist without a single permanent contract taught VideoHQ founder Hannah Quinn something the Alan Milburn report has now confirmed: for too many young people, the traditional route into work simply isn't there. In this blog, Hannah shares how self-employment — with the support of Launch It — turned that uncertainty into a thriving video production business of her own.

The Start-Up Smarts Masterclass Series is a free, in-person business training programme for young entrepreneurs aged 18–30 in Stoke-on-Trent happening from October 2025 to March 2026. Hosted at Launch It Stoke, the series covers key topics like marketing, AI, cybersecurity, funding, and networking, all led by industry experts. It's the perfect opportunity to gain practical skills, connect with other founders, and access ongoing business support locally.

Launch It CEO, Pat Shelley, shares some business advice learned from his wife's venture into entrepreneurship.