Innovate York Case Studies

See how Innovate York has supported businesses to grow and innovate.

Innovate York offers a series of workshops, womens peer-to-peer networking and specialist events to businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the city. The programme is delivered by the University of York and funded by City of York Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

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We’d be delighted to hear from you. The Enterprise Works team can be contacted via:

enterprise-works@york.ac.uk
+44 (0)1904 321420
@@UoYEntWorks
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Myth Drinks

Myth Drinks specialises in non-alcoholic spirits and ready-to-drink cocktails. Founded just over two years ago, it quickly expanded to the US, Canada, and EU. As it scaled, challenges like optimising market routes and understanding customer segments arose.

Joining the Innovate York Workshop series led by Dr. Jo North, founder Colette gained insights into focusing on wholesalers and on-trade venues. This prompted Myth Drinks to pivot its marketing and product strategies, emphasizing sustainability.

The workshops transformed their business strategy, integrating social and sustainability goals, enhancing customer engagement, and positioning Myth Drinks as a forward-thinking brand.

"The workshops provided me with a much broader perspective of innovation which I've been able to use to look more clearly at my customers, my products and the sustainability and operational considerations for my business."

Read the full case study here:
Myth Drinks Case Study (PDF , 553kb)

Tutorfox

Tutorfox, a York-based start-up, simplifies finding skilled local tutors for in-person tuition through its bespoke platform, which includes messaging, lesson booking, payments, and invoicing.

The platform provides detailed tutor profiles for transparency. Founder Anna Sinclair faced typical start-up challenges and sought clarity and a strategic plan through the Innovation Workshops. These workshops provided valuable feedback, introduced her to Horizon Scanning and Competitor Analysis, and deepened her understanding of innovation.

As a result, Anna has implemented new revenue ideas, hired a marketing intern, and joined the Phase One business incubator program, gaining confidence to explore new opportunities.

"The Innovation Workshops provided me with clarity, focus, and tools to create a comprehensive business plan. The ongoing mentoring support and connections with the Internship Programme and Phase One business incubator have allowed me to propel my business forward."

Read the full case study here:
Tutorfox Case Study (PDF , 533kb)

The Mindful Organiser

The Mindful Organiser, founded by Cher Casey, offers professional decluttering and organising services in York and nearby areas, focusing on creating calm, functional spaces with tailored storage solutions, all aimed at enhancing physical and mental well-being. Cher provides both in-person and virtual sessions to help families, professionals, and retirees manage clutter.

Starting the business involved challenges like building a brand and gaining visibility. Cher joined the Innovate York peer-to-peer networking, funded by City of York Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which was invaluable for learning from experienced businesswomen. These sessions provided confidence and clarity, helping Cher identify her target audience and equipping her with tools to grow her business.

"I highly recommend the peer-to-peer group program to any woman at any business stage. As I began my professional organising business, I gained invaluable knowledge on operating successfully, from defining target audiences to confident pricing and innovation. Led by Holly Arden, we brainstormed, collaborated, and networked, making enriching connections with fellow women business owners in York."

Read the full case study here:
The Mindful Organiser Case Study (PDF , 725kb)