Young entrepreneur flips and kicks his way into business

A special loan for businesses that want an alternative to traditional finance has allowed a young entrepreneur to develop one of the UK’s first academies dedicated to the mesmerising urban sport of tricking.

Fast-forward 12 years and Robbie has achieved his ambition.

With mentoring support from Transmit Start-Ups and a Start-Up Loan, Robbie has launched WightTricks Academy at Prospect Business Park on the Isle of Wight, a space designed for tricking and acrobatics – with a huge air floor, spring floor and a team of talented coaches.

The only gymnastics floor on the island, the facility has been an instant hit and has already developed a community of 150 active members, aged from as young as five.

Robbie said:

“It’s absolutely amazing to have actually built this facility for local kids. It’s the best feeling in the world to be able to make a living from my passion. When I was 16 this type of facility is all I ever wanted – now I can give it to others."

Robbie was initially granted a £4,000 Start-Up Loan to develop his business in local schools and was successful in his second application for £16,000 to develop the brand-new facility. He is now working with Transmit Start-Ups’ Jill Stewart to find the perfect mentor to maximise the impact of the investment.

Transmit Start-Ups is the UK’s leading provider of Government-backed Start Up Loans and has backed the business dreams of 4,500 entrepreneurs with over £43.5 million in finance. Transmit’s loans offer entrepreneurs an alternative to traditional finance, with low interest repayments and high-impact mentoring.

Jill said:

“Robbie’s business has got off to an incredible start and he clearly identified an exciting opportunity to be part of the growing popularity of urban sports in the UK. I’m really looking forward to finding out what’s next for Robbie’s business and to hearing about the personal success stories of many young people who will, no doubt, be inspired by his passion and skills.”