Small Business Advice From Small Business Owners

Fleximize wouldn’t be here without our fantastic customers – many of whom are business owners running homegrown enterprises across the UK, from trendy cafes to construction firms. That’s why we’re helping raise the profile of hard-working entrepreneurs, who are making a huge contribution to the economy but who often don't get the recognition they deserve.

We've had a chat with two exciting micro-enterprises, and each person has important advice for other business owners drawn from their own experiences. They also share their startup stories and reveal how they've made their businesses a success.

Sisters Grimm

Theatre production company, Sisters Grimm, is run by composer, Ella Spira, and Royal Ballet ballerina, Pietra Mello-Pittman. Both met while working on a Royal Opera House production and decided to merge their stellar creative and production talents to set up a company with an edge over other arts organisations. Below Ella and Pietra explain how Sisters Grimm came to be, what makes them different and their advice for small businesses in other competitive industries.

The power of partnerships

Interview with: Sisters Grimm | Length: 0:37 | Topics: Collaboration, creativity, mutual support

Why they're different

Interview with: Sisters Grimm | Length: 0:50 | Topics: What gives Sisters Grimm the edge

Funds for arts-based businesses

Interview with: Sisters Grimm | Length: 0:38 | Topics: Where and how to get business funding

Lessons learned

Interview with: Sisters Grimm | Length: 1:07 | Topics: Value people, get expert advice and try out new things

Base Performance Simulators

Based near the world-famous Silverstone race track, Base Performance Simulators has roared onto the motor racing scene, offering technology to help drivers improve their lap time. Professional racing driver, Darren Turner, created the very first Formula 1 simulators for teams including McLaren and Red Bull. He used this knowledge to go on to make simulators for racing drivers, corporate events and even royalty. Business Manager, Ella Barrington, talks about the booming business, typical challenges and shares useful tips on how to find small business funding.

First simulators

Interview with: Base Performance Simulators | Length: 0:53 | Topics: Gap in the market, creating professional solution

High-profile customers

Interview with: Base Performance Simulators | Length: 0:50 | Topics: International, royal and big-brand customers

Use of simulators

Interview with: Base Performance Simulators | Length: 0:40 | Topics: Race preparation, corporate events, gift experiences

Business challenges

Interview with: Base Performance Simulators | Length: 0:38 | Topics: Scaling up, lessons learned, planning

Advice on small business funding

Interview with: Base Performance Simulators | Length: 0:49 | Topics: Funding, networking, funding applications