Empowering Young Founders: Launch It Stoke-on-Trent Now Officially Open
- Ed Montalban
- May 1
- 4 min read
Launch It's first-ever enterprise centre in the Midlands invites enterprising young Stokies to connect & explore start-up support opportunities available at the hub.
Stoke-on-Trent, 29 April 2025 – After years of dedication, planning, and preparation, Launch It Stoke-on-Trent proudly celebrated its official opening, welcoming founders, partners, and supporters into the hub. Located in Longton, one of Stoke-on-Trent’s most culturally rich districts, Launch It Stoke-on-Trent is designed to become a central point for local talent to start up, connect, collaborate, and grow.
With a focus on nurturing young entrepreneurs, creatives, artists and makers, the centre aims to drive the regeneration of Longton and the wider Stoke-on-Trent area by providing affordable workspaces, business development support, skills training, mentoring, funding opportunities, and guidance to help young people succeed in their respective industries, and today’s competitive market.
"We are beyond excited to officially open the doors to Launch It Stoke-on-Trent and welcome young founders, small business owners, supporters and the local community who will be part of this vibrant space. Bringing Launch It’s 25-year legacy of helping break barriers to thriving in entrepreneurship to Stoke-on-Trent marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter—one where ambition meets opportunity, and young entrepreneurs can help shape the future of this vibrant city,” said Anya Cummings, Launch It Stoke-on-Trent Chair of the Board of Trustees.
Launch It Stoke features 20 state-of-the-art studios with a mixture of co-working and individual workspaces. It is connected to the Longton Townhall market, making it a central focal point in the area, and offers a fantastic environment for creativity, innovation and business growth. A key component of the regeneration of Longton and Stoke-on-Trent, the development of the hub is made possible through a strong partnership between Launch It, its invested group of local trustees and Stoke-on-Trent City Council. Together, they share a commitment to supporting young people on their entrepreneurial journeys while also contributing to the economic revitalisation of the city.
"Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire offer immense potential for growth, innovation, and business development. Launch It Stoke-on-Trent is a pivotal part of our long-term vision for the city’s regeneration, helping to build a stronger, more inclusive economy by supporting local talent and empowering young people to turn their ideas into reality.”, said Cllr Chris Robinson of Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
The Launch It Labs programme which was made possible through the generous support from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) with the Mayor of London and Enfield Council, gave away a grant total amounting to almost £10K overall across the various legs of the programme.
Pitch judge, HR Sports Academy founder and former Launch It alumna, Mickela Hall-Ramsay said: “Support programmes like Launch It Labs are absolutely vital. I have first hand experience of the impact they can have on young entrepreneurs. Often, when you’re in the thick of running a business, you’re too busy to step back and strategise. These programmes provide the space to refine ideas, develop structured plans, and receive valuable guidance from experienced professionals."
"Beyond practical business knowledge, they also surround you with like-minded people, inspiring and motivating you to push forward. They help build the confidence and resilience needed to not just survive in business, but to thrive. A strong foundation is crucial for long-term success, and programmes like these provide exactly that."
Launch It Stoke is also sponsored by the Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce and brings a network of professional partnerships, highlighted by over 23 years of business expertise from Gemma Bourne, Launch It Stoke enterprise manager.
“I’m proud to say I was born and bred in Stoke-on-Trent. Growing up with a self-employed father in the pottery industry, I developed a deep appreciation for entrepreneurship and the dedication that goes into running a business. I’m passionate about supporting local businesses and making a lasting impact on my community, and I’m thrilled to continue this journey of empowerment with Launch It, Gemma shared.
The centre is ready to launch its first training programme in July, with workshops for young people eager to start or grow their businesses. Future hub clients will also be matched with ROCKETLAUNCHERS, expert business mentors who can help with their growth, and an Open Day is scheduled on 22nd May to introduce the local community to the resources on offer. Also ongoing is a digital skills development programme for start-ups called Digital Pioneers!
Matt Ogden, Sales & Marketing Director at LilaConnect, one of the hub partners who has committed to providing full-fibre broadband for founders who will set up their businesses at Launch It Stoke-on-Trent said, “We know how essential a fast and reliable connection is to get ahead. Whether it’s accessing digital tools, collaborating effectively in real-time or managing transactions, your internet speed plays a vital role. We’re delighted to support increased productivity and growth for budding entrepreneurs!
Launch It Stoke-on-Trent is now officially open, and we invite young entrepreneurs, creatives, makers and small business owners from across the city, along with the greater community to explore the opportunities available and join us in this exciting new chapter for Stoke-on-Trent.
Find out more about support opportunities or get involved with supporting the next generation of business founders in Stoke-on-Trent! Visit www.launchit.org.uk/stoke-on-trent or follow us on Instagram and/or LinkedIn.
You can also email gemma@launchit.org.uk for a chat or arrange a visit at the hub.
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