The Inclusive Growth London programme is designed to support businesses based or trading in Camden, Hackney, Tower Hamlets or Westminster. It delivers scale up business support across the boroughs, with a focus on micro and small female-owned and/or disabled-owned businesses with the potential to grow. The programme aims to strengthen confidence and resilience in underrepresented business owners to unlock growth opportunities.
Here, programme participant Ayesha Ibrahim shares her experience and journey on the programme.
About the brand
Honey Corn is a consciously crafted, gender-neutral skincare brand rooted in nature and innovation that delivers luxurious skincare with purpose. Its hero ingredient is honey. Infused with high-quality, natural and organic ingredients ethically sourced from around the globe. The brand has been featured in prestigious publications such as Vogue, Tatler, GQ and Mayfair Life Magazine.
The challenge
As a solo entrepreneur with global ambitions, Ayesha recognised the value of strategic support. Running a business can often feel like an uphill, lonely climb. While friends and family offered her encouragement, Ayesha recognised the need for expert mentorship to refine her goals, sharpen her strategies and prepare for international expansion.
Why the Inclusive Growth London programme?
When Ayesha discovered the Inclusive Growth London programme, she knew it would fit her needs perfectly. The programme offers access to mentors who can challenge, guide and inspire entrepreneurs. Ayesha eagerly applied, stating: “I apply for any free help because knowledge is power! I saw the criteria and thought: bingo, this is me!”
Tailored support and advice
Through 1-2-1 virtual mentoring with expert business adviser Hardeep Sarma, Ayesha received valuable support, including:
- Clarity on her goals: Hardeep instinctively understood Ayesha’s business ethics and personality which helped her clarify and articulate what she wanted to achieve
- Social media strategy: Together, Hardeep and Ayesha developed strategies to enhance Honey Corn’s presence across digital platforms
- Networking encouragement: Recognising Ayesha’s passion for connection, Hardeep encouraged her to engage more deeply in networking within the industry
- Market Insights: From global trade missions to intellectual property advice, Hardeep provided valuable insights and practical tools to help Honey Corn compete internationally
The impact of the support
“The Inclusive Growth London programme helped me find clarity when my vision felt cloudy. The support revealed real opportunities, and I’m incredibly proud of what lies ahead.”
Honey Corn has secured a significant deal with a Chinese luxury retailer, set to launch in May 2025 with Boundless Matro Group. This marks the brand’s first step into the premium Asian market and represents a significant milestone in its global growth journey.
Final words from Ayesha
“Athletes have coaches to help them win, why not business owners? The programme’s support has been game-changing. I now move forward with confidence and clarity.”
Ayesha Ibrahim, Honey Corn
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