World Entrepreneurs Day 2024: Celebrating Newcastle graduates transforming industries
This World Entrepreneurs Day, we’re celebrating Newcastle University graduates who have founded innovative businesses and are reshaping industries with the support of Newcastle University’s START UP Founderships programme.
21 August 2024
World Entrepreneurs Day recognises the entrepreneurial spirit that drives innovation, economic growth, and social change.
To support the next generation of entrepreneurs, the START UP Founderships programme was launched. This six-month pre-accelerator programme, worth £20,000, offers support to help turn ideas into successful businesses.
Chris Dawson (BA Town Planning, 2014) - Co-founder of One Utility Bill
Chris Dawson co-founded One Utility Bill, a service that simplifies utility payments by combining them into one monthly bill. Geared primarily toward renters and students, One Utility Bill now serves over 21,000 customers nationwide. The business has gained significant traction, receiving multiple awards and securing £5.5 million in funding. Chris's innovative approach to utilities is simplifying the lives of thousands of people across the UK.
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Dan Ellis (MA, 2011) - Founder of Jam Jar Cinema
Dan Ellis is the visionary behind Jam Jar Cinema, an independent cinema located in Whitley Bay. Dan transformed a derelict building into a vibrant cultural space, creating a community-driven cinema that now screens over 200 films annually and attracts more than 45,000 visitors. Dan has also raised over £80,000 for local causes and was awarded a BAFTA in the 'For the Love of Film' competition which was launched in December 2019 and recognises individuals from across the country that have done something amazing simply 'For the Love of Film'.
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Natalie Ellis (BSc Business Management, 2014) - CEO of Boss Babe
Natalie Ellis is the CEO of Boss Babe, a global platform empowering ambitious women in business. Natalie’s background in marketing and entrepreneurship has helped transform Boss Babe into one of the largest online communities for female entrepreneurs, offering resources, mentorship, and support. Through her work, Natalie has inspired thousands of women worldwide to pursue their business goals and take control of their futures.
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Johnson Fernandes (PhD Electrical and Electronic Engineering, 2017) - Co-founder of Equiwatt
Johnson Fernandes co-founded Equiwatt, the UK’s first community-powered virtual power plant. This smart energy platform rewards consumers for reducing their energy usage during peak times, promoting energy efficiency on a large scale. In 2022, Equiwatt was recognised by PwC UK as one of 50 innovative start-ups with the potential to drive the country towards achieving Net Zero. Johnson’s work is at the forefront of the energy revolution, empowering communities to collectively make a difference.
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Raj Parmar (MBBS, 2018) - Co-founder of Rewire
Raj Parmar, a medical professional, co-founded Rewire, a cutting-edge neurological rehabilitation app. Raj is passionate about integrating healthcare with technology, and Rewire offers stroke survivors personalised, at-home physiotherapy powered by AI. The app provides tailored recovery plans that adapt to each user's progress, helping to improve rehabilitation outcomes. Raj's work is revolutionising how neurological patients approach long-term recovery.
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Katie Stienlet (BSc Sport and Exercise Science, 2020) - Founder of DISK Sport Science
Katie Stienlet founded DISK Sport Science, a specialist clinic focusing on injury prevention and rehabilitation. With a background in sport and exercise science, Katie combines her expertise with practical injury management, helping athletes and active individuals maintain peak physical condition. Through her clinic, Katie is making a difference in the world of sports science by ensuring that her clients are supported in staying healthy and injury-free.
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