When Jade signed up for the Knoei Launchpad program, she came in with a clear mission: to see her small start-up, Epic Garden, bloom. With a passion for growth, both personal and professional, she was ready to soak up new ideas and plant the seeds of a strong business foundation.
“I joined the Launchpad program hoping to learn the skills I need to grow my small business, Epic Garden,” she says. “One of the most valuable things I’ve learnt is to take a few steps back and really focus on building the right foundations.”
Launchpad is designed to do just that, equip young entrepreneurs with the tools and confidence to grow something meaningful. The program blends practical business theory with personalised mentoring, connecting participants with seasoned mentors who know the start-up rollercoaster all too well.
“The one-on-one mentor sessions have been a huge help. They’ve given me support, guidance, and a clearer direction in my business,” says Jade.
Over six months, participants dive into a mix of online, facilitator-led sessions and regular mentor catch-ups. It’s a chance to explore everything from business planning to mindset, with the goal of turning bright ideas into thriving ventures.
Along the way, many discover more than just business strategies, they discover things about themselves too.
“I’ve learnt that I can be a bit impatient and want everything to happen all at once, but I’m learning that things take time,” Jade adds. “Even if all the little steps don’t feel like much in the moment, they’ll add up and become something meaningful.”
Starting a small business is no walk in the park. Launchpad helps prepare participants for the inevitable bumps in the road, offering the kind of real-world insight you don’t always get from a textbook.
By the end of the program, participants walk away with renewed energy, fresh perspectives and a practical plan for the future of their start-up.
“Launchpad has encouraged me to keep going and given me more confidence in my business,” says Jade. “It has reminded me why I started and helped me stay motivated. It’s also made me more open to learning and growing so I can take Epic Garden even further.”
Start-up life moves quickly and comes with its fair share of challenges, but Jade’s drive and passion shine through. With her vision and grit, Epic Garden is only just getting started, we’re excited to see what’s next.
You can find out more about the Launchpad program here
