With a mission to bridge the digital divide and reduce electronic waste, John Hastings founded Recycle-IT! (Bolton) CIC in 2021, an innovative social enterprise based in Bolton. John's journey to this point was anything but straightforward. From a young age, he had a passion for electronics, often taking apart his ZX Spectrum. However, his path was marked by significant challenges, including a diagnosis of ADHD and a period of incarceration. These experiences shaped his perspective on life and inspired him to create something meaningful.
During a particularly difficult time, John had an epiphany. He realized the pressing issues of electronic waste and the digital divide affecting many people. This realization led him to start Recycle-IT!, aiming to refurbish and redistribute IT equipment to those in need, thereby reducing e-waste and promoting digital inclusion. Bolton, with its strong community spirit and significant need for digital resources, was the perfect place to launch this initiative.
Recycle-IT! operates with a clear mission: to bridge the digital divide and reduce electronic waste. The business model focuses on collecting unwanted IT equipment from businesses and, in the near future, from households as well. These items are refurbished and either sold at significantly reduced prices or donated to those in need. For equipment that cannot be refurbished, the parts and materials are dismantled and recycled.
In the early stages, John faced several significant challenges. Translating his vision into a viable business required learning about business management, finance, and strategic planning. Securing funding without taking on debt was another major hurdle. Recycle-IT! started with minimal resources—just one laptop, one workbench, and £250 in seed funding. Navigating the complexities of the recycling industry, including obtaining necessary licenses and meeting regulatory requirements, was also challenging. Building a network of partners and supporters was crucial to establishing trust and credibility within the community and among potential clients.
John's journey took a positive turn when he discovered the GM Business Growth Hub and its programmes, Start Smart and EnterprisingYou. These programmes provided invaluable support in several key areas. Mentorship and guidance helped John turn his vision into a viable business plan. Workshops and one-on-one mentoring sessions were crucial in building his knowledge of business management, finance, and strategic planning.
Financial planning support from the Hub made a significant difference. They assisted with cash flow forecasting and introduced tools like QuickBooks, essential for financial tracking and management. This support was vital, especially given the minimal resources Recycle-IT! started with. The Hub also helped navigate the complexities of the recycling industry, advising on obtaining necessary licenses and meeting regulatory requirements. Additionally, they encouraged connections with other companies in the industry, helping build partnerships and gain insights into best practices.
The support from the GM Business Growth Hub was instrumental in overcoming the challenges faced in the early stages. Their guidance and resources helped Recycle-IT! grow from a small startup to a recognized social enterprise, making a tangible impact on the environment and digital inclusion in Bolton.
John's experience with the GM Business Growth Hub was extremely positive. From the moment he reached out, they provided a wealth of resources and support crucial in launching Recycle-IT!. The mentorship and guidance helped navigate the complexities of starting and running a social enterprise. Practical advice on everything from business planning to financial management was invaluable, given John's background and the challenges faced.
The workshops and one-on-one mentoring sessions were particularly beneficial, equipping John with essential skills and boosting his confidence in managing the business. The Hub's team was always approachable and ready to help, making the entire process much smoother.
“I highly recommend the GM Business Growth Hub to anyone facing similar challenges. Their support can make a significant difference, especially for those who are passionate about their ideas but may lack the business acumen to bring them to fruition,” said John Hastings. “The Hub provides a solid foundation and the tools needed to turn a vision into reality. If you're looking to start or grow a social enterprise, the GM Business Growth Hub is an excellent resource to consider.”
Recycle-IT! stands as a testament to John's resilience and commitment to social and environmental causes. Through creative recycling and upcycling practices, the enterprise not only promotes digital inclusion but also fosters community engagement and sustainability in Bolton.
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