Programme:
Cumbria Accelerator: Business Support Programme
Business Advisor:
Ray McCreadie CBASS
Phil Thomas founded E-Bike Safaris Ltd to deliver e-bike experiences and multi-day cycle holidays in the Lake District. With a passion for the outdoors and a clear vision for the business, Phil wanted to develop E-Bike Safaris into a sustainable business that could provide both an income and a lifestyle he enjoyed.
However, establishing and marketing a new business presented significant challenges. Phil had no previous marketing experience, while the range of digital marketing platforms, tools and priorities was constantly evolving.
“I would not have been able to establish E-Bike Safaris without the marketing support provided through Enterprising Cumbria.”
Through tailored support from Enterprising Cumbria, Phil was able to build his marketing knowledge and develop the tools and confidence needed to grow the business.
The focus was on three key priorities:
Ray McCreadie was Phil’s main advisor, providing ongoing guidance while also connecting him with specialist expertise where needed.
Ray signposted Phil to website developer Gareth O’Rourke and marketing specialist Mary Ballard, helping E-Bike Safaris access the specialist support needed to strengthen its online presence and marketing activity.
The support provided Phil with practical tools and guidance to improve his marketing skills, while giving him greater confidence in making decisions about the business.
“The tailored support has been extremely helpful, helping to fill the gaps in my knowledge and very reassuring and supportive.”
Alongside the marketing support, grant funding has also helped the business grow. The 50% co-funding from the Investment in Growth Fund enabled E-Bike Safaris to expand its fleet to support the development of its multi-day cycle holidays in the Lake District.
The impact of the support can be seen in the significant increase in turnover since the business began trading. For Phil, however, the results go beyond financial growth. The business has enabled him to achieve a long-held ambition of creating a business and lifestyle that he genuinely enjoys.
“The most valuable part has been the marketing support, particularly website development and guidance around social media and Google Ads.”
The combination of practical advice, specialist support and investment has given Phil the confidence and foundations to continue developing E-Bike Safaris.
Ray’s ongoing guidance has also supported Phil with his current grant application, helping him identify further opportunities to build on the progress already made.
“Ray has given me very strong guidance on my current grant application - very much appreciated!”
Most importantly, Phil has created the business and lifestyle he set out to achieve, combining entrepreneurship with time outdoors and the opportunity to meet people from across the region and beyond.
“With the support, I have managed to achieve a lifetime dream of establishing a business and lifestyle that I enjoy, meeting a lot of great people and spending a lot of time out enjoying the Lake District countryside.”
Are you looking to grow your business but need support with marketing, investment or developing a clear route forward?
Enterprising Cumbria provides tailored advice and specialist support to help businesses build confidence, access opportunities and achieve sustainable growth.
Contact us today to start your journey.
