Barclays Black Founder Accelerator 2022 member
HotPatch
HotPatch allows you to rent the right space for your purpose, whatever it may be.
If you're not using your space, list it with HotPatch and let it earn money for you instead.
Why did you join the Barclays Black Founder Accelerator?
It has been such an exciting journey so far, but it also feels as though it is only just beginning. For HotPatch to be as successful as I envisage, every bit of expert advice and mentoring will be of high importance. The start up world is very small, and very competitive, so being able to move quickly with the right knowledge is hyper critical.
Why did you want to start your business?
It started when I was working on a similar concept in the fitness & wellness space. I realised that there are so many more professionals who rent the space they need, but need it on a flexible basis, and yet the only method of doing so was really awkward and time-consuming, and to be honest, just outdated. If all of these companies out there can deliver food to your house in 10 minutes and you can get a cab through a quick swipe of an app on your phone, why can't we just make accessing the space you need just as easy for professionals too?
What would be your desired outcome from this programme?
I am looking forward to meeting the awesome cohort of founders and expanding my network in the start up world. Having such a lean team and being so early stage, you have to learn quickly and a lot of it whilst you are in the act so I am really looking forward to the masterclasses and work with the team to give a better grounding going forwards.
Which entrepreneur inspires you the most and why?
Mohamed Yunus - Whilst building a successful business he has also changed the lives of millions through this work and a simple concept in the form of microfinancing.
What has been your biggest win in your entrepreneurial journey?
Bringing HotPatch as far as we have so far has been amazing, but what really stands out is the amazing small community of Hosts and Professionals who are with us and have spoken so positively and gratefully about us bringing this solution to market for them.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Awareness! The start up world is so busy and there are so many amazing founders doing so many amazing things, you really have to stand up, standout and shout to be heard!
Where did you go for business advice and how did it help you?
I have found a great number of resources online, as well as being able to reach out to a network of friends and professionals who have been so kind with their time. Although they may not have always been experts in the exact field HotPatch needs, even simple business advice on things start up rarely discuss, such as legal, tax, IP etc has been invaluable.
What drives you to make your business a success?
I am always spurred on by the fact we are solving a real problem for real people every day. Being able to build and improve that constantly is great motivation to see the solution get better and our users delivered with more convenience as we grow and improve.
What advice would you give other founders thinking about starting their own business?
Go for it! Having a good network around you of people who can help you get off the ground is great. Speak to other founders, establish relationships with stakeholders as early as you, it will only help you in the future.