Success Story
| Region/Nation | Wales |
|---|---|
| Sector | Business Franchises |
| Programme | Start Up Loans |
Leon Stapleton, founder of We Make Footballers Cardiff, a football training academy for children aged 4-12.
Applying for a £15,000 Start Up Loan with the British Business Bank last year meant that Leon was able to launch the first We Make Footballers franchise in Wales.
A former maths and science teacher, Leon spent over 10 years teaching in a secondary school, but pre-pandemic he became disillusioned with life in the classroom, despite really enjoying working with children, and decided to leave teaching for a job with a courier service, while he researched new career options.
Alongside being a lifelong supporter of Cardiff City FC, Leon has always enjoyed playing football himself, being part of various teams across Cardiff over the years and most recently joining Thornhill Veterans. Learning about the UK-wide franchise, We Make Footballers, Leon saw an opportunity to establish a branch in Wales and grabbed it with both hands.
There’s nothing else quite like We Make Footballers in Cardiff, and I’m really proud to be offering something which will be benefitting the local community. There’s a resounding passion that exudes from everyone who’s involved with We Make Footballers, from both the players and the coaches. Ultimately, there’s a real joy that comes from playing football with other people. The fact that I get to experience all of this as a business owner is a dream come true.
I’m really excited to be involved in the Ambassador programme as I know first-hand what a Start Up Loan can do to help get a business off the ground. My loan enabled me to purchase the bulk of my training equipment, venue insurance, hire coaches and produce marketing materials. I hope my story can inspire others to turn their passion into a business and know that they will be financially supported in their journey through programmes like Start Up Loans.
Leon Stapleton Founder, We Make Footballers
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