The hookup, an online dating platform for small and micro businesses, has secured funding from Innovate UK.
This strategic partnership with Innovate UK, the government innovation agency, will empower the hookup to revolutionize the way small and micro businesses connect, collaborate, and expand their networks.
Designed by two local Derby businesses, think3 and Ask the Chameleon – the force behind the Swap Shop business platform during the pandemic – the hookup is based on the simple principle of connecting like-minded small and micro businesses together to collaborate.
A dynamic online hub, the hookup will offer a mobile platform for entrepreneurs to initially meet online with those that share similar aspirations, establish valuable partnerships, and unlock new opportunities. By encouraging meaningful connections, the hookup tackles barriers to collaboration, enabling small and micro businesses to scale their operations with confidence.
In recognition of its innovative approach to business networking, the hookup has been selected as a recipient of the prestigious Innovate UK funding – one of only 14 in the East Midlands totalling £400,000 of investment and one of only 4 businesses in Derbyshire to secure the highly competitive award.
The fund supports pioneering ventures driving technological advancements and economic development. This award signifies a significant milestone for the startup venture and reaffirms its commitment to spearheading digital transformation in the small and micro business landscape.
The investment from Innovate UK will fuel the hookup’s ongoing development and expansion, allowing the online platform to enhance its user experience, introduce cutting-edge matchmaking algorithms, and leverage advanced data analytics. With these advancements, the hookup will provide its members with personalized recommendations, facilitate tailored introductions, and deliver actionable insights to foster mutually beneficial business relationships.
Founding partner and owner of think3, Lee Marples said: “Our partnership with Innovate UK marks a pivotal moment for the hookup and the small business community as a whole, demonstrating their confidence is us to create a vibrant place for businesses to find their perfect match, unlocking endless possibilities for growth.”
Joint founder and owner of Ask the Chameleon, Rachel Hayward said: “We are delighted to receive this funding, which will help us to accelerate our goal to change the way small and micro businesses connect, collaborate, and thrive. Business is tough, and we aim to give our members the knowledge, tools and meaningful connections necessary to grow their businesses.”
Rachel added: “Based on our experience of running the Swap Shop during the pandemic, we know through this new platform, small businesses can find partners, suppliers, investors, and collaborators, fuelling our futures.”
