Clevilli Bay

In a nutshell… 

• Financial backing paired with mentorship can significantly impact entrepreneurial success. 

Clevelli Bay Ltd, an eco-friendly household cleaning brand, is making waves with its luxurious, ocean-inspired products designed to limit single-use plastic and reduce carbon emissions. Through ambition and determination, as well as the support of Start Up Loans (SUL), Founder Charlie Sefton has turned a groundbreaking idea into a thriving business, overcoming significant obstacles along the way.  

Clevelli Bay was inspired by Charlie’s life in Australia and her keen desire to create a sustainable alternative in household cleaning. The company's mission is to protect the oceans and the planet with innovative cleaning solutions. These products, made and sold in the UK, feature multiuse bottles crafted from 100% Prevented Ocean Plastic, carbon-friendly letterbox refills, and environmentally conscious packaging. 

Charlie made the bold decision to leave a stable corporate job to pursue an entrepreneurial dream, with no savings to cushion the transition. She faced numerous rejections from banks due to her business being pre-revenue, making the path to launching a product-based venture with substantial upfront costs appear daunting. 

Everything changed when she discovered Start Up Loans during her research. Being a neurodivergent entrepreneur, Charlie was inspired by Richard Branson’s stories about dyslexia and success, so decided to apply and make her own dreams a reality. The approval of a £25k loan was a pivotal moment, sparking both shock and excitement – as well as a prompt call to Dad to share the good news. 

But the financial boost was just the beginning. Clevelli Bay was paired with mentor Sophie Taylor, whose guidance proved indispensable. Sophie, with her extensive business experience and network, offered insights and connections that were crucial to overcoming initial hurdles and navigating the complexities of starting a product business. 

Charlie said: "Starting a product business with incredibly large upfront costs seemed impossible pre revenue before I came across SUL. Not only did SUL provide the capital to get up and running, but the mentor support has been second to none. I am overwhelmed by the knowledge, expertise, and network that my mentor Sophie has supported with me. Aside from this, Sophie has also given me the mental confidence to push through the difficult times in setting up a business, particularly as a female founder". 

Charlie attributes much of her success to the support received from Start Up Loans, but her commitment to sustainability and innovation cannot be understated as it continues to drive the business forward. The combination of both Charlie’s approach and the mentorship received through SUL has seen Clevelli Bay achieve several key milestones beyond the successful launch of its eco-friendly products. These include securing an additional £20k low-interest business loan and applying for a £50k grant with Innovate UK’s Unlocking Potential Award: Build. 

Charlie went on to say: "Without the support of SUL I would not be where I am today with Clevelli Bay. SUL has not only provided the financial capital to get the business up and running, but the mentor support and network. This guidance has been invaluable". 

As Clevelli Bay looks to the future, its success story serves as an inspiration to other aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating that with the right resources and guidance, even the most ambitious visions can become reality.