Seven parents have launched their own businesses in Rhyl.
The start-ups are the result of a course run by the charity Blossom & Bloom and Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s Multiply department.
The enterprises, which include ventures in personalised gifts, home-baked treats, beauty treatments, and wigs, are now trading from Blossom & Bloom’s Wellness Hub in Rhyl.
The six-week course, titled 'Starting Your Own Business', was delivered by the parenting charity in collaboration with Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s Multiply department.
Those who successfully completed the course received a small grant to help with start-up costs, as well as funding for ongoing learning with Grŵp Llandrillo Menai.
The course will be offered again from November 7, providing more aspiring entrepreneurs in the area with the opportunity to start their own enterprises.
Since April, Blossom & Bloom has worked with Multiply, hosting numeracy courses to empower local people.
Vicky Welsman-Millard, founder of Blossom & Bloom, said: "You need those basic skills around figures on money management, so that's why I went to Multiply to say ‘I've got this great idea.
"Can we do this together?’
"There are seven businesses that have been created, which is amazing because that wouldn't have been possible without Blossom & Bloom and Multiply, and the grant was specifically funded by Multiply, which wouldn't have happened otherwise."
One of the successful learners, Erika Lloyd, has started her business, ‘Maisie’s Makes’, creating key rings aimed at mums.
She used her grant to buy stock and equipment to make the key rings, which she produces at home and sells in Blossom & Bloom’s development hub.
Ms Lloyd said: "It has inspired me to work for myself and to be flexible around my daughter.
"It's been helpful because I didn't get all the legal side.
"Another part is focusing on not underselling myself as well.
"I’ll sit on the sofa with her and just design.
"Then when she goes to bed, that's when I think ‘Right, now’s my opportunity to make it real’."
Bethan Lloyd, multiply engagement coordinator for Denbighshire, said: "I’m absolutely thrilled to witness the impact our free numeracy courses are having across North Wales.
"The courses at Blossom & Bloom are a stand-out example of how the Multiply initiative not only builds confidence with numbers but also empowers individuals to chase their dreams, like starting their own businesses."
To be eligible for Multiply courses through Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, you must be aged 19 or over, and live in Gwynedd, Môn, Conwy or Denbighshire.
For more information about courses at Blossom & Bloom, visit their website.
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