Mint Photo Studios is a creative hub for photographers to use based in FBC Clerkenwell, one of Islington Council’s affordable workspaces.
Sajeda wanted to start her business as she had been a professional photographer for many years but struggled to find local studios-for-hire that were suitable and affordable. Seeing this gap in the market, she approached FBC Clerkenwell who loved her idea and supported her in using their space to set up a studio that she could use for her photography and hire out for other professional photographers to use.
Having secured her plan and venue, Sajeda needed some funding to full equip her studio, which is why she applied to the Inclusive Entrepreneurship Programme. She was able to spend the grant on a better computer, items for the studio and to begin developing her website.
She also found that the consultancy was an important step in helping her to breakdown what her business needed and how to best prioritise spending the funding, with the consultants’ advice being a constant reminder in the back of her head.
In addition, Sajeda attended one of the Action Learning Sets while on the programme on ‘how to charge clients for services and tell them about increased rates’ which can be a conversation many entrepreneurs struggle with. While she didn’t present this challenge, it did resonate with Sajeda, and she was able to take away many actions to apply to her business.