A Blackburn woman has set up a new ethical cosmetics company and is planning to launch her business globally.
Salma Chaudhry has been given a helping hand by the new business start-up programme – Pennine LEAP.
She plans to manufacture Halal (accredited) cosmetics and is currently testing a range of beauty products that are suitable for everyone but especially for consumers that require Halal products.
The entrepreneur accessed free coaching support from Pennine LEAP including a four day start up boot camp and will also access expert advice from the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce on developing an export strategy.
As a result, she will be launching her products in the Spring and will be exhibiting in the Middle East.
Pennine LEAP offers support to anyone wanting to start or grow a new business or social enterprise.
It is being delivered by Regenerate Pennine Lancashire and a network of enterprise partners including Enterprise4All, Winning Pitch, East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, Community and Business Partners and Selnet.
The programme is financially supported by the European Regional Development Fund and provides intensive coaching, mentoring, HR specialists, social enterprise and international trade support to non-retail enterprises across Blackburn, Darwen, Hyndburn, Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale. The programme also provides finance support and the benefit of an experienced business mentor for up to two years.
Salma will also benefit from access to an indemnified HR specialist through Community and Business Partners as her business grows and she starts to recruit staff.
She said: “I attended the Pennine LEAP Bootcamp, which provided me with a essential coaching on running a new business, including marketing and business planning. I’d recommend it, even if you’ve been in business before as it offers real food for thought. The expert coaches really know their stuff.”
“Pennine LEAP will also help me with my marketing. We hope to export our products to the Middle East, so it’s essential we have a strong marketing campaign.”
If you have an idea for a business, call Regenerate Direct on 0800 612 2029 for free support or look at our Start Your Business pages.
