SEN Sports game-changing journey with Post Loan Support from Start Up Loans

When Shadie founded SEN Sports Ltd, she had a clear vision: to establish a sports club where children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) could thrive. Shadie was well-versed in the world of sports, but turning her passion into a sustainable business was a new challenge. "I knew I had the expertise to make a difference in these children's lives," Shadie reflects. "However, transforming that passion into a viable business was the real hurdle." 

The Start Up Loans programme provided the initial funding Shadie needed to launch her venture, but securing a loan was just the first step in a long journey. It was the Start Up Loans Post-Loan Support Service that truly helped her build a strong foundation for her business. 

Through personalised mentoring sessions, Shadie addressed her first major challenge: the company's structure. Her mentor advised converting from a Limited by Shares to a Limited by Guarantee structure, which opened up new avenues for grants and other funding which wasn’t an option under the business’s current setup. "This guidance was invaluable," Shadie notes. "It helped me understand how to position my business for success and access the resources I needed." 

Next, Shadie tackled the issue of pricing. How could she balance affordability for families with the need to keep the business sustainable? The Post-Loan Support Service provided the solution: "They helped me design a customer survey that was instrumental in finding the right balance between what families could afford and what we needed to grow," Shadie explains. With insights directly from her customers, Shadie can now set prices with confidence. 

Shadie also recognised the importance of creating a strong brand identity for SEN Sports. When her mentor suggested introducing branded uniforms, she saw an opportunity not only to enhance the professional image but also to improve safety measures. "Those uniforms became a symbol of unity and belonging for our children, helping them to feel like true participants in the sports activities." Shadie explains. “On top of feeling good, the uniforms keep the kids safe, making them easily identifiable around the premises and outside if they start roaming around and need returning.” 

As Shadie navigated the complex world of sports education for children with special needs, she drew heavily on the resources provided by the Start Up Loans programme. 

"The post-loan support was more than just business advice," Shadie reflects. "It was about having a team of experts who understood my challenges and were committed to helping me succeed." 

Today, SEN Sports is a thriving community where children who once felt excluded are now active participants. "Starting this business has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding," Shadie says. "Thanks to the Start Up Loans Post-Loan Support, I feel confident that I'm not just running a business – I'm making a lasting impact." 

Shadie's story highlights the importance of perseverance and engaging with the right support system to overcome business challenges. In the world of entrepreneurship, having a strong team behind you can make all the difference. 

"To anyone considering starting a business, I would say this," Shadie advises, "Take that first step, but ensure you have the right support in place. With the right guidance, you can turn any obstacle into an opportunity for growth."