Liana Fricker: Hustle Awards Finalist, Sparking Innovation in Surrey
Celebrating the unstoppable drive of the woman reshaping the UK's startup landscape.
Liana Fricker, the Inspirer-in-Chief behind Surrey-based startup support service, Inspiration Space, has been catapulted into the global spotlight.
Recognised for her relentless dedication to fostering creativity, entrepreneurship, and inclusivity, Liana now finds herself on the esteemed shortlist for the international Startups Magazine Hustle Awards, in the 'Inspirational Womxn in the Industry' category.
Steering Through Challenges
The Hustle Awards have always been known for showcasing the best in the industry, celebrating those who embody the entrepreneurial spirit in its purest form.
This year, the awards are even more significant given the record number of submissions. Liana's impact-driven approach to entrepreneurship has been acknowledged, a testament to her hard work and perseverance.
As Startups Magazine puts it:
“Liana’s work has empowered countless entrepreneurs to overcome challenges and achieve success. Her dedication to mentorship, environmental stewardship and championing underrepresented groups is how she continues to inspire and transform the lives of many in the industry.”
Embracing Change
With Inspiration Space, Liana has created an environment that nurtures entrepreneurial talent across a range of sectors.
The community-driven venture originally began as a networking group, but amidst the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, Liana led a strategic pivot into mentorship and education.
The Power of Mentorship
Today, Inspiration Space has delivered over 7,000 hours of intensive one-on-one mentorship and group education to a diverse cross-section of Founders outside the status quo.
Liana, alongside Nigel Scarfe, former CEO of Compass PLC, and Pamela Iannotti, a retired Venture Capitalist and Senior Lecturer in Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Winchester, are the organisations catalysts for progress.
A Nomination Well-Deserved
"I am truly honoured to be recognised amongst so many inspirational women in the industry. This nomination is a testament to the work my team and I have been doing at Inspiration Space to support startups, small businesses and 'Companies of One', particularly in the areas of sustainability, education, and tech for good," said Liana, reflecting on her Hustle Awards nomination.
Driving Inclusive Growth
Recognised as one of the "Most Influential Women of 2022" by Startups Magazine, Liana continues to champion inclusivity, creating opportunities and driving growth in a challenging business landscape.
With the support from the ever-expanding network of mentors, industry experts and seasoned entrepreneurs, founders from Inspiration Space, including Surrey-based gaming company, Atom Stars, have gained entry into internationally-recognised accelerators such as TechStars and Antler.
The Road Ahead
As Liana looks forward to the challenges facing startups and small businesses ahead, her commitment to her mission is unwavering.
"Starting a business has never been easier - keeping one going, is harder than ever before," she says.
"Inspiration Space is here to hold the ladder for people with BIG ideas while they ambitiously reach for more. Yes, not all ideas are created equally but; they all deserve the same opportunity to work."
Lasting Impact
In a world filled with competition and constant change, Liana shines as a beacon of inspiration, proving that entrepreneurship can be a force for good, and that every dream, big or small, deserves the right environment to flourish.
As the anticipation for the Hustle Awards builds, one thing is certain: regardless of the result, Liana's influence on Surrey's startup scene will continue to be felt for many years to come.
The Hustle Awards is on the 20th July 2023 at Steel Yard, London. The startup event of the year, grab a ticket to mix and mingle with the creme de la creme of the industry. Space is limited, so book your ticket early to avoid disappointment.
Are you looking to unlock your entrepreneurial spirit? Do you have an untapped idea waiting for the right guidance to flourish? Now's the time to seize the opportunity.
Whether you're a budding startup, a small business, or a 'Company of One', it's time to explore the wealth of support on offer.
Visit Inspiration Space today, and let's turn your dream into a reality.
