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Cheltenham Growth Hub has been part of The Growth Hub's county-wide network for almost a year. During this time our Cheltenham team have been working out of the amazing co-working facilities at Hub8 in the Cheltenham brewery. Eagerly awaiting the opening date of their own Cheltenham Hub at the Minister Exchange, the team have been busy helping local businesses grow. And the team behind the hub has done some growing too…

Get to know Illyana, Charlotte and Tom below.

Illyana Mullins, Business Navigator

Illyana is originally from Texas and has now lived in Gloucestershire for over 7 years. She has an background in personal finance and customer service, with a passion for technology and cyber security. Illyana has extensive experience with event planning, as well as supporting with inclusion and diversity. She is dedicated to helping people and business reach their potential.

Tell us a bit about you

I originally grew up in the United States, before moving to the UK over 8 years ago. My background is finance and pensions, while currently I am head of operations for hub8. I am also Director of BSides Cheltenham a CIC which focuses on my passion for Cyber security and technology. 

Why do you love what you do?

I am really passionate about helping people and one of the best way I have found is through helping companies grow and seeing them succeed through the help they receive with the Growth Hub.

What’s the best thing about Cheltenham Growth Hub?

The best thing is our community! From the coworking space we currently inhabit to our delivery partners, our Growth Hub is uniquely Cheltenham and I think that is seen by the companies we help.

How can a local business get support from The Growth Hub?

There are plenty of ways a business can get support through Cheltenham Growth Hub. Why not give our Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn a look or even a follow so you can keep up to date with what’s going on, or you can pop in for a nice chat, email or give us a quick call. 

One piece of advice for Cheltenham businesses?

One piece of advice I would give is to get involved! There is so much support waiting and available to you.

Charlotte Lyons-Martin, Business Navigator and Events Officer

Having studied International Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Gloucestershire, Charlotte has a depth of knowledge of the tourism sector and is also experienced in events management. This experience, combined with knowledge of the Gloucestershire area means she is able dedicated to developing an events programme to support local businesses and promote Cheltenham Growth Hub.

Tell us a bit about you

I grew up in Devon before moving to Gloucestershire to study International Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Gloucestershire. I am a passionate individual who love all things cooking/ baking and am a avid animal lover- apart from the dreaded spider.. I have always loved to interact with new people and to help where possible which is why I feel so lucky to be the business navigator at Cheltenham Growth Hub.

Why do you love what you do?

I am passionate about my role as it allows me to talk to all the wonderful businesses around Cheltenham and beyond. I am a people person which is great with this role as I get to meet new people all the time. The role also allows me to proactively help and support businesses which is great as I love to see them benefit.

What’s the best thing about Cheltenham Growth Hub?

The best thing about Cheltenham Growth Hub is the wide variety of support and the atmosphere. Everyone is made to feel welcomed from the minute they arrive to the minute they leave. Everyone is helpful and supportive which means we can provide more support, advice and guidance to all business which is our main goal! Apart from that, its in a fantastic location with loads of things to do.

How can a local business get support from The Growth Hub?

There are lots of ways the Growth Hub can support local business in Cheltenham. It can range from them popping in for a chat to discover how we can help your business to grow, giving us an email or a call, having a dedicated 1-2-1 discovery meeting with our skilled navigators, use of space to work, booking a meeting room or attending one of our many events that range from workshops to one-to-ones.

One piece of advice for Cheltenham businesses?

My one top-tip to give businesses in Cheltenham is to come and speak to us at The Growth Hub. This can be for support and advice or just for a friendly chat. You never know what you may learn.

Tom Broadway, Business Host

Tom is a keen musician and a naturally sociable person. Tom's role as host means that he can welcome all businesses who come through the Growth Hub doors and ensures that all businesses are well taken care off. He also helps to run and set-up our events and is an integral part to the Growth Hub team’

Tell us a bit about you

I grew up in Devon before moving up to Cheltenham, Gloucestershire in 2022. I had previously studied at the University of Gloucestershire studying a Ba Hons in Popular Music. Since then, I have worked for a music-based CIC in Devon that was put in place to help the local community grow and offer opportunities in a creative sector. I have a passion for watching communities grow and seeing people succeed. This is one of the main reasons I chose to join Cheltenham Growth Hub. The chance to see businesses grow and see the positive impact they will have is a prospect that excites me.

Why do you love your role?

Strength in local communities is incredibly important to me, helping businesses grow and thrive will only enhance local communities. It’s a very rewarding role.

What’s the best thing about Cheltenham Growth Hub?

Having a team that is committed and driven to offer the best possible opportunities to help businesses grow. The buzz and excitement that is generated from the services we offer just goes to show what we are capable of in terms of support!

How can a local business get support from the growth hub?

Through a wonderful variety of ways! The hub can offer 1-2-1 tailored support where our experts will offer essential guidance. Our online and in person events are a perfect way to learn a new array of skills that can aid business growth. They’re also a great chance to network with other local entrepreneurs. If you’re a local business, you should definitely come see what the hub can offer you. 

One piece of advice for Cheltenham businesses

My one piece of advice for businesses is to always believe in the business. Work hard, take risks and remain resilient. Oh, and of course come pop in and see us at The Growth Hub!

Get support from Tewkesbury Growth Hub

While the Cheltenham Hub is under construction, the Cheltenham Growth Hub team is welcoming clients to Hub8 at The Brewery Quarter or at Gloucestershire College for face-to-face meetings and support. We are also offering virtual support which must be booked in advance with the team via email: cheltenham@thegrowthhub.biz.

Get in touch to find out more about how we can help your business to grow.