MARTIN TWIGG

From 27 years with the police to harnessing the advancement of drone technology, Martin Twigg talks to unLTD about his journey as a new business owner so far.

Tell us about your company. Making the use of the latest drone technology, Iprosurv – Martin Twigg provides high quality aerial data services such as photography, videography, thermal imaging, mapping and surveying, and 3D modelling, as well as security and surveillance operations. Drones are utilised across various sectors from agriculture, construction, engineering, and insurance to marketing, property sales and lettings, and facilities management, to name but a few. Drones reduce carbon emissions, improve efficiency, and reduce health and safety risks when compared to traditional inspection methods like scaffolding, cherry pickers or working at height teams.

When did you decide to start up on your own and what inspired you?

I was inspired to start a drone business when I was flying drones operationally for the police. In September 2020, I was 18 months from retiring as a police officer and looking to run my own business. I had recently qualified as a drone pilot and the technology was advancing rapidly, allowing drones to be used in a wide range of applications across the UK, so I wanted to be part of that growth. I had already set up an electrical testing business, Marcaz Ltd, and saw an opportunity to change direction and pursue my interest by purchasing a franchise in a drone business in April 2022.

How has Launchpad helped you?

Launchpad have been an asset to me and my business, having been there to talk ideas through, provide reality checks when needed and greatly assist with my development through the various training programmes and workshops they provide to small businesses like mine. They also made me more accountable to myself. At times when starting a new business, you want to run before you can walk, yet at the same time, you can

Statement

FROM JULIA MILLEA, BUSINESS START UP ADVISOR

“It’s been great to work with Martin on shaping his business proposition so he can stay focused on demonstrating the unique wealth of knowledge and expertise he brings to his customers. Most of the work we offer is around clarity so business owners can see their priorities and a clear path forward to developing their business strategy and growing more successfully, as Martin has done.” feel you have made no progress at all. Launchpad are supportive and help to boost your morale by highlighting how far you have come in a short period of time.

What are your hopes and aims for your business?

I am still a relatively new business, with my drone operation only recently reaching its first birthday. My aim is to continue to develop by helping those businesses who are looking to reduce their health and safety risks, reduce costs and improve efficiency. I want to develop and grow my business so I can employ staff to assist me with my vision for Iprosurv – Martin Twigg, allowing me to develop my transition from public servant to a successful business owner. Find out more by contacting Martin on martin.twigg@iprosurv. com or 07939 653818 and visiting www.iprosurv.com

Starting and growing a business is not easy and that’s why the Launchpad programme was created. Part funded by the European Regional Development Fund and our partners means there is no cost to the entrepreneur, so we can get straight to work on turning those dreams into reality. Stop dreaming and do it. Contact us for information now on 03330 00 00 39 or email growthhub@southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk.