ABOUT US
The WIP was founded by Lucy Kebbell. We support small businesses to be sustainable and successful, because we believe that true, collaborative impact, must be driven by businesses that don’t struggle, they thrive.
Businesses shouldn’t just survive, they should THRIVE
There are two main barriers to businesses adopting sustainable, circular and regenerative practices…
… Lack of KNOWLEDGE and lack of FUNDING.
We are tackling both issues through easy to understand resources, events and accountability. Whether you are an individual (founders of Micro organisations, sole traders, freelancers, consultants and people at idea, startup stage) or an Organisation (Business support organisations, Graduate Enterprise Teams, Local Authorities & Corporate Partners) we have tailored support to suit you.
About Lucy
A former fashion stylist and content creator, Lucy accidentally began creating The WIP’s community of small, creative business when she wrote for her own platform The Vendeur. Fast forward to the pandemic and Lucy’s pro bono work supporting these businesses during uncertain times evolved into The WIP. Recognising the need for community, as well as optimistic messaging around environmental & social impact, Lucy is passionate about supporting SME’s to thrive.
She is an experienced speaker, workshop facilitator and developer, as well as a certified Business Mentor with the Association of Business Mentors. She also hosts a kick ass event.
We only work with people who align with our values.
FAQs
Do you only work with fashion businesses?
No, whilst Lucy’s experience in Luxury fashion media makes her well placed to support the fashion industry, her work with Hatch Enterprise, Enterprise Nation & Startup Discovery School has seen her work with a wide range of businesses. From tech, to product and service based, ideas stage to growth stage, Lucy is happy to help.
Is The WIP a membership?
Not anymore. This model didn’t work for our community so instead we offer a weekly newsletter ‘Friday Funding Chats’ via Substack, online tools like the Expert Directory and Funding Opportunities Database, as well as unique programmes. See our Services page for more details.
I lead a community of small businesses, how can we work together?
Easy, just fill in the contact form and Lucy will get back to you. We work with everyone from corporates, to Social Enterprises, Local Authorities, Graduate Programmes and small business communities. All our content can be tailored to suit your audience & their goals.
How is The WIP Sustainable?
We practise what we preach and endeavour to exist with a minimal footprint. Lucy is Carbon Literate and we only work with people who align with our values. We are zero plastic, and use public transport as much as possible. We are proud to bank ethically with Tide and are hosted on Krystal – the conscious web host!
Book Lucy To Speak At Your Next Event
Lucy has worked with a wide variety of organisations to deliver inspiring workshops & talks on topics ranging from;
Introduction to Impact for a variety of business stages & sectors
Understanding funding for your values driven business
Impact for makers & creatives
Ethical communications and avoiding greenwashing
Preparing yourself for your funding journey
