Case Studies from April 2024

Sector: Architectural Services

Location: Derby

Originally from Lisbon, KreatiViz founder Joao Bravo started his business following a career in the architectural industry.

The Derby-based business began in October 2022 creating 3D architectural renderings (pictures/images). More recently a new online 3D home design solutions service has also been added. They offer CGI, 3D design and visualisation, and architectural design services for homeowners across the UK.

Challenges faced

As a relatively new business, KreatiViz faced several challenges. There was the issue of outdated hardware and lack of capital, as well as not having certain business skills in-house, particularly around digital marketing to enable further growth.

Solution and Impact

When enquiring about funding with the Chamber, Joao was contacted by Steve Phillips, a Business Adviser with the Accelerator project. Steve identified that the business qualified for a Growth Voucher which funded some help from digital consultant, Ian Lockwood.

Ian completed an audit of the business’s website highlighting several flaws which were impacting organic growth. He set up Google Analytics reports enabling Joao to see accurate performance results, which has saved a great deal of time. There was also keyword research, advice on SEO and creating better page layouts - all helping the business to have an improved, well-functioning and organised website.

KreatiViz is now working on making the site more professional using streamlined processes. The support has meant the business is on its way to being more competitive and has helped reduce costs.

“The amount of time and energy this has saved is priceless. We were able to carry on with our daily work and still get the support for our website that was extremely needed. The audit work has saved us days, if not weeks of research to get even close to the level of detail we’ve been given. I’m very pleased with the outcome, and Ian Lockwood exceeded my expectations.”

- Joao Bravo , Director

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This initiative is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and delivered by East Midlands Chamber on behalf of Derby City Council.

Sector: Construction

Location: Sutton-in-Ashfield

Ashfield Accelerator is a brand-new business support project designed to help established businesses based in the District of Ashfield find practical solutions to improve commercial operations leading to sustainable growth. This is being funded by Ashfield District Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and delivered by East Midlands Chamber.

After many years as a successful sole trader, Robert Thorpe incorporated his business, Thorpe Electrical Solutions in 2020.

Specialising in residential and commercial electrical services covering the East Midlands, particularly Mansfield and Ashfield.

Now as a team of 8, Thorpe Electrical Solutions has vast experience in testing a wide variety of installations from domestic housing to commercial offices. The business is fully NAPIT-approved which means the team works safely and to legally required standards.

Challenges faced

The business has faced many challenges in recent years from rising costs to tackling Covid lockdowns. There was also the transition from a sole trader electrician to growing a business, recruiting and managing staff.

A lot of time has been spent developing services and launching another company in the energy sector, as well as on diversification. Growth is the ambition but at the same time managing costs and keeping up-to-date with changing environmental requirements.

Solution and Impact

Robert has been supported through the Accelerator programme by Chamber Business Adviser, David Smith, particularly around the financial aspects of the business. The use of subcontractors has recently been reduced to increase efficiency and save on labour costs. The business is also combating rising costs and tracking each job to see where further efficiencies can be made.

David’s insight has also helped in a further two areas. Firstly, by supporting Robert to benefit from Help to Grow: Management, a 12-week executive development leadership and management programme. A Chamber subsidy meant that 100% of enrolment costs have been met. The programme is helping Robert build his strategic knowledge and skills. It has focused his thinking on what his business offers and the jobs it takes on, as well as tracking profitability and marketing for higher-value work.

The course has already had an impact on staff with better engagement than ever before, helping them develop and grow as the business expands. Robert says he is learning a lot and looking forward to scaling up with a new business plan.

Secondly, a Growth Voucher from the Chamber has enabled the business to commission an external consultant, Sophie from Be Your Best Version, to provide support and a greater understanding of reducing their carbon footprint. New processes are now in place, helping them be more environmentally friendly now and in the future.

“David and his team have been a huge help to our organisation – from our 1-to-1 meetings, helping us with the numbers, informing us about the Help to Grow programme and accessing the Growth Voucher. David helped me years ago before I started the business. He’s been a great help, just as he was back then! I couldn’t recommend anyone more highly!”

- Robert Thorpe, Founder and Director

Read the full Case Study

This initiative is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and delivered by East Midlands Chamber on behalf of Ashfield District Council.

Sector: Machining, fabrication, and assembly

Location: Ashfield

Ashfield Accelerator is a brand-new business support project designed to help established businesses based in the District of Ashfield find practical solutions to improve commercial operations leading to sustainable growth. This is being funded by Ashfield District Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and delivered by East Midlands Chamber.

Tybro is an award-winning, fourth-generation independent business. Founded in 1914, it provides high-quality precision engineering solutions to a range of industries.

The business’s initial focus was on motor and electrical engineering but it has
developed a niche for precision engineering (specifically milling, turning, fabrication & assembly). Its key selling point is its ability to manufacture bespoke, out-of-theordinary items which relies heavily upon the skillset of its team.

Challenges faced

The business faces two key challenges: finding skilled staff to deliver the bespoke, precision work required by its customers; and remaining at the forefront of technological changes to provide the best possible customer service.

As a business committed to reducing its carbon footprint and, in turn, that of its customers and their end users, it has also invested in implementing significant changes to aid this journey. The business continues to rise to the challenge of being a critical manufacturing partner to several companies that are creating new green environmental projects such as fusion, hydrogen and electrification.

Solution and Impact

First and foremost, the business has benefitted from expert support from Chamber Business Adviser David Smith. David has identified the right support to meet the business’s needs and challenging growth plans, working closely with Mandy Tyler, who took over as Managing Director in 2021. Introductions have been made to key partners such as the University of Derby’s apprenticeship team and Made Smarter for automation advice & funding.

The support through Made Smarter has highlighted many of the good practices already being undertaken but has also led to the awarding of a Made Smarter grant. This injection of funding will support the business to invest in new machinery, thereby helping to increase its manufacturing speed and efficiency. The time saved will not only speed up the whole process – as there will be only one set up and set down – but will also leave another machine and operator free for another job. The end result will be an increase in capacity, a reduction in lead times and, ultimately, reduction in production cost. As well as enabling the business to become more efficient, the standardisation of its machines will also help it streamline its training of
new staff.

An energy audit has also been commissioned and the business is looking forward to acting upon the findings to identify how it can take further steps to reduce its carbon footprint.

“David introduced us to Made Smarter and was on hand throughout the grant process, helping me to demonstrate what impact the investment would have on the business.

We received a £20k grant as a result which will help us increase our manufacturing capability. Our new machine has additional features that our current turning machines don’t, enabling us to undertake multiple operations in one setting rather than manufacturing on multiple machines.”

- Mandy Tyler, Managing Director

Read the full Case Study

This initiative is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and delivered by East Midlands Chamber on behalf of Ashfield District Council.