Originally seeking support for a product launch, Freshleaf Digital’s focus evolved as the business grew. Mentoring helped create the space to reassess priorities, strengthen strategic thinking and move forward with greater clarity.

After three children, Gemma Puzas felt lost in business. With mentor Julia Macmillan’s support, she regained confidence, set clear goals, and grew Corefithealth while balancing family life.

After becoming sole owner of a small industrial automation company, the Managing Director set a goal of sustainable growth. With support from Dorset Business Mentors, they gained fresh insights to explore new markets and strengthen sales and marketing—providing vital support for long-term success.

Referred by the South West Manufacturing Advisory Service, the case study of D&S Cabling illustrates how mentoring has helped its owners preserve, and reverse the national loss trend of, this specialist form of manufacture in the UK.

Michael Stoate, 5th generation owner of N.R. Stoate & Sons, reflects on the mentoring support which has contributed to his increasing sales since 2014 in the region of 65% and the tonnage by 57%.

We recently invited testimonials from mentees who have taken up our Business Resilience Support in the face of C-19. Yolanda Fuentes of Equ-All illustrates how we work with partner organisations (here the Dorset Growth Hub) in the interest of local business owners.

Ann Doughty of Abacus Accountancy offers a personal view of the all-consuming cliff edge her business faced at the onset of C-19 lockdown and how she is being helped to overcome this and navigate her previously successful business to a brighter future.

Lucy Erskine, Founder and CEO of Gunho Marketing, discusses how business mentors have supported her to manage her business growth since 2010. This case study highlights how as a business and its needs develop, the Dorset Business Mentors program can introduce different mentors with the relevant experience to bring new perspectives and fresh insights.

Bob and Sofia Carter of Nature Travels give a personal account of the support they have received since first being recommended Dorset Business Mentors in 2011. They candidly discuss how they have overcome the typical challenges presented to married joint Director owners and anyone wanting to achieve steady growth and a solid team.

John Fisher, founder of Firepot (Outdoorfood) discusses his business journey and experience of mentoring. Firepot specialises in flavoursome dehydrated packaged meals, created originally for expeditions. They have pivoted their messaging to highlight their product as a store cupboard essential during this period of isolation.

Karl and Chrissy Regler of condiment specialist From Dorset With Love sent us this testimonial on their mentoring experience to date.

Sam Acton shares what led her to try mentoring, the skills she was looking for, the impact mentoring has had on her business and how the relationship works.

Nicky Kay of Fit Kids shares how her mentor helped her to explore franchising as a route to growth

Roger Brisley explains why he wonders how any does without a mentor