Beitak Productions, empowered to grow by LSBU’s free business support programme
LSBU’s Investment Escalator programme gave Beitak Productions founder Katie Bracher the skills and confidence to develop her businessBeitak Productions Limited is a small media production company that produces high quality media to capture and bring together compelling stories. Having operated as a part-time sole-trader for four years, founder Katie Bracher needed to grow her business and safeguard her job. In March 2015, she joined London South Bank University’s (LSBU) Investment Escalator, a free business support programme funded by the EU.
Learning how to develop business practices
“As someone from an arts background, business practice was very daunting to me. I really didn’t know where to begin. My previous clients had all been made through personal connections, which I would now call ‘networking’ although I didn’t see it that way at the time,” says Katie.
Through the programme, Katie benefited from 1-2-1 advice from LSBU academics, who gave her guidance tailored to her specific needs. She also attended a variety of expert workshops, including Digital Marketing, Sales Development, Key Account Management and Business Effectiveness.
“The range of introductory courses I have attended through the Investment Escalator supported me in gaining a good understanding of the core elements to have in place to run a small business. The more advanced courses, which look at these subjects in more detail, have consistently supported me through my journey of development,” says Katie.
Continuing the journey to success with the right skills
Katie is now working full-time as Beitak’s Creative Director and has developed a team of freelance creative practitioners whom she regularly employs and manages. She has redesigned her website using branding and copywriting techniques she has learned through Investment Escalator workshops and has developed her skills for pitching to new clients. She recently secured a substantial video contract with the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.
“This programme has helped me to see a new future, one which is full of opportunity and I now continue the journey with the skills and confidence to make it a success,” says Katie.