HARNESSING COMMUNITIES FOR ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT
AN OVERVIEW FOR DANIEL MAGUIRE
AN OVERVIEW FOR DANIEL MAGUIRE
PRESENTED BY REN KAPUR MBE
PRESENTED BY REN KAPUR MBE
NOVEMBER 2024
the power of partnership
WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP
The Partnership Between LSEG and Enterprise For Life®
Enterprise For Life (EfL), along with its subbrands X-Forces Enterprise, and Soldiering On Awards and Academy, immensely values the partnership with the London Stock Exchange Group and its subsidiaries, including the LSEG Foundation.
This partnership is much more than a simple strategic alliance, but rather a heartfelt commitment to fostering economic empowerment and community development. LSEG support covers a myriad of pathways through enterprise skills, whether this be in entrepreneurship or using these skills to understand how business works and finding a job in the commercial world - all of which are life skills
The support provided by LSEG and its Foundation enables EfL to extend its reach and deepen its impact, providing vital resources and valuable opportunities to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and the wider Armed Forces community The strength of this partnership is a testament to the shared vision of creating a thriving ecosystem where every individual has the chance to succeed and make a meaningful contribution to society.
Our aim is to empower communities through enterprise skills learning Whether our delegates are going into entrepreneurship or employment, these skills are synonymous with both EfL and LSEG’s vision of delivering education, enterprise and employment.
Through events, workshops, and mentorship programmes, people can connect with industry experts and business leaders - connections crucial for gaining insights, sharing best practice, and forming strategic partnerships
Fostering a collaborative environment helps to create a supportive ecosystem where everyone can thrive, and LSEG is the right partner in allowing us to deliver this social good.
Invaluable Learning and Sustainability
LSEG provides small businesses and entrepreneurs with unparalleled access to capital markets and financial expertise. This renowned support in preparing businesses to be sustainable, robust, and economically viable is crucial for businesses looking to scale, allowing them to secure the necessary funding to expand operations, invest in innovation, and enter new markets Furthermore, the learning and insights gained from LSEG are invaluable for EfL and its community.
By integrating these principles into EfL’s training and development programmes, this partnership ensures that individuals are not only equipped to start their businesses but also to sustain and grow them in the long term while navigating the complexities of our society.
This focus on sustainability and economic viability is essential for creating resilient businesses that can thrive in a competitive market
This partnership is not just a strategic alliance but a heartfelt commitment to fostering economic empowerment and community development.
Spotlight on Small Business
LSEG and EfL share a commitment to creating social value and making a positive impact on communities Supporting the ambitions of small business owners and entrepreneurs contributes to economic empowerment and job creation, benefiting not only individual lives but extending into local communities.
With innovation and sustainability key focus areas for both the LSEG Foundation and EfL, and with social value at the very heart of the partnership, we align with the goals of so many small businesses that aim to make a difference in their communities while achieving business success.
By encouraging innovative thinking and sustainable business practices, the partnership helps small businesses to stay competitive, adapt to changing market conditions, and future-proof their operations. Innovation is key in driving long-term growth and addressing the evolving needs of the market, while also encouraging businesses to be socially responsible
Tailored Support for Veterans
EfL has partnered with LSEG to offer specialised support for veterans transitioning to
civilian life, delivered at their iconic headquarters in Paternoster Square. Those in the Armed Forces community possess unique skills and experiences that are highly valuable, transferable, and sought after in the business world
In working with LSEG, EfL ensures that personnel looking to transition into entrepreneurship or employment can leverage their leadership, discipline, and strategic thinking skills to build a strong foundation for business success
The support of LSEG in delivering this provision and the inspiration delegates draw from this is extraordinarily important and appreciated
The EfL Skills programme - meticulously cocreated with LSEG - provides training and development opportunities by covering a comprehensive and valuable array of topics, including business management, financial literacy, marketing, and more
The shared vision for equipping individuals and empowering our community with skills training highlights why LSEG is so valuable to our delivery.
Empowering Communities through Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Learning
Enterprise For Life®is a unique organisation dedicated to empowering communities through enterprise and entrepreneurship learning Its mission is to foster economic growth and personal development by providing essential skills training and social value projects. The organisation plays a crucial role in supporting individuals to excel in their careers and entrepreneurial endeavours.
EfL and its directors have been instrumental in providing pathways for success, including transitioning from institutions such as frontline services, military, civil service, as well as those who have come from complex backgrounds, working closely with the MOD, Home Office, Cabinet Office and Department of Business and Trade
Collaboration and Building Social Value
Working closely with local communities to identify specific needs and develop targeted solutions, EfL is committed to creating social value through its projects. Whether through educational initiatives, community development projects, or support for local businesses, the organisation strives to build stronger, more resilient societies Collaboration is at the heart of the approach and LSEG is vital to this delivery of social good
Working with an extensive and diverse range of partners - including educational institutions, government, the third and private sectorsensures that the initiatives are always delivered to the highest possible standard, with the beneficiary at the heart of the programme at all times This commitment to quality also ensures that new ways to address the evolving needs of the communities it serves are at the forefront, at all times
Using close connections and providing role models and success stories that inspire others
praises aspirations in those who participate in EfL programmes By showcasing the achievements of individuals who have previously benefited, as well as senior role models from business, the organisation demonstrates what is possible with the right support and determination This fosters a culture of ambition and self-belief for the individual, and also creates a wider community connected by the shared values of empowering people to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential.
Empowering Communities Through Skills Training
One of the primary goals of EfL is to stimulate economic growth within communities through the lens of enterprise and the culture of entrepreneurship, helping to create new businesses and job opportunities. The ripple effect of this economic growth can lead to improved infrastructure, better educational facilities, and increased access to healthcare services.
EfL understands that needs differ at both an individual and community level, and to ensure that beneficiaries get the best out of support, the organisation offers targeted programmes that address a specific need
EfL and its brands’ key community focus areas in delivering skills training include military and emergency services personnel, youth, and prospective business owners
Supporting Transitioning Military Personnel
Transitioning from military service to civilian life can be a challenging process. EfL - through the X-Forces Enterprise (XFE) brandrecognises the unique skills and experiences that military personnel bring to the table and provides tailored support to help them transition smoothly, which includes specialised training programmes that leverage their management, discipline, and strategic thinking skills
Using mentorship and networking opportunities, EfL helps veterans to find meaningful employment or start their own businesses. The success of this blueprint has also been replicated in the X-Emergency Services brand, centering on support for those transitioning from emergency services
Promoting Self-Employment
For those who aspire to be the masters of their own business, XFE offers end-to-end support for self-employment This includes guidance on business planning, access to funding, and ongoing mentorship, which enables individuals to turn their business ideas into reality
Supporting Youth and Graduates
EfL places a strong emphasis on supporting young people graduating from universities. The organisation has a coveted relationship with the National Centre for Entrepreneurship in Education (NCEE) and Universities UK, a partnership instrumental in bridging the gap between education and employment and enhancing economic growth, while providing real opportunities for the young leaders of tomorrow By bringing together esteemed institutions and individuals from universities, the private sector, and policy, EfL and its partner NCEE aim to drive entrepreneurial mindsets in higher education and bring out the entrepreneurial talent of graduates, ensuring they are equipped with knowledge needed to thrive in the modern economy [1]
Whether supporting transitioning military personnel, promoting self-employment, or enhancing employability, LSEG’s partnership with EfL is making a significant impact on the lives of many. Through collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to social value, we are helping to build stronger, more resilient and cohesive communities that are wellequipped not only to survive, but to thrive
X-FORCES ENTERPRISE
The Leading Organisation in Delivering Enterprise Support to the Armed Forces Community
X-Forces Enterprise (XFE) is the nation’s leading organisation for enterprise support to the military community in business. XFE nurtures entrepreneurial ambition in the UK Armed Forces community by supporting start-up and scale-up businesses
It provides free training - with the support of partners - to individuals (Service leavers, military spouses and partners, reservists, cadets and children of forces), and is the industry leader for enterprise training for the Ministry of Defence, as well as a recipient of the Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award for outstanding support of the military family
The over-riding aim of XFE is to provide members of the military family with the knowledge and information they need to make informed choices about their own selfemployment and business ownership journeys. As a social enterprise and community interest company, the partnerships with military charities, government departments and commercial organisations are key in driving success.
The infographic below offers an overview of how the community shapes XFE’s ability to deliver services to the highest standard
Ren Kapur MBE and Richard Bearman - Managing Director of Small Business Lending at British Business Bank - celebrate the 3000th business to be supported by XFE with a Start Up Loan, underlining the organisation’s reputation as one of the nation’s top providers of microfinancing.
XFE deeply values its partnership with LSEG, recognising its significant role in empowering the Armed Forces community to thrive in selfemployment. This partnership is about more than business – it’s about building futures for those who have sacrificed so much for their nation Together, we provide the resources, training, and opportunities needed to unlock entrepreneurial potential in this community
Since 2015, XFE have been the Official Business Enterprise Trainer for the Ministry of Defence through the Career Transition Partnership, delivering Self-Employment Awareness and Enterprise training to Service Leavers across the UK We believe that involving spouses and family members in our programmes is crucial. Their unwavering support is often the foundation for entrepreneurial success, and empowering them alongside veterans creates a stronger, more united path to financial independence By nurturing the entire military family, XFE and LSEG are helping build resilient communities where ambition can flourish, and dreams can become reality.
Since 2013, we have been the appointed Armed Forces Community Business Support Partner for the Start Up Loans scheme across the UK, administered by the British Business Bank
XFE worked with Government to change policy and make funding accessible to the Armed Forces community unable to get traditional finance to make this possible.
Through our bespoke five phases of support, from discovery to ongoing support after securing a loan, we have changed lives In the years since XFE’s inception, we have supported over 10,000 people, helped launch over 3000 new businesses, delivered tens of thousands of hours of training, facilitated in excess of £36 million in seed funding through Start Up Loans, and influenced the major government policy changes for the betterment of our community [2]
The holistic approach we adopt - strengthened by our partnership with LSEG - ensures the military community has the tools, guidance, and encouragement needed to succeed in entrepreneurship
We were extremely proud and privileged to have marked the special celebration of ten years of XFE’s support of military entrepreneurship at LSEG’s renowned market close, and in our eleventh year and beyond, this support to the community is only getting stronger [3]
SOLDIERING ON AWARDS
The Soldiering On Awards epitomises our nation's commitment to our people in uniform, their families, our veterans, our reservists, and their connecting fibres with civilian life in the public, private, and third sectors
Each year this event brings together all of these incredible people and organisations, with a shared purpose – so that we may express our gratitude, our admiration, and our sincere respect The Awards tell the stories of our finalists’ altruism, endeavour, commitment, and outstanding achievement, representing the very best of both our Armed Forces community and of society itself.
Having just completed our 14th year, the Soldiering On Awards are bigger and better than ever Across diverse categories from business to healthcare, education to inclusivity, and beyond, 36 finalists are fittingly celebrated and recognised.
Additionally, the Awards afford members of the Armed Forces community a space for
ed, familiar faces, nections
Importantly, it offers our partners a crucial opportunity to come together and connect with others who share a common purpose.
By sharing stories and recognising achievement, the event reminds us every year of our common goals To quote the touching words of Mark Harding, the winner of the 2023 Inspiration Award: “It’s never about the awards; it’s all about the people.”
We are immensely proud to have LSEG Foundation as The Business Scale-Up Award partner, which looks to honour an individual or group of individuals linked with the Armed Forces Community who have started a successful new business venture more than two years ago and who still retain a minimum of 50% interest in the venture.
Watch: Interview with Scale-Up Award winner Nick Orde-Powlett and Daniel Maguire.
With the impact of Armed Forces community businesses continuing to grow across the country, the Business Scale-Up Award has never been more relevant or important. Congratulations to all this year’s entrants from the LSEG Foundation team - your entrepreneurial drive and innovation never fails to impress - Daniel Maguire, Group Head of LSEG Markets
Delivering Transformative Enterprise Skills to Those Who Need an Extra Hand-Up
The launch of the brand-new Soldiering On Academy will begin with renewed, bespoke provision for those who need that little bit more support The initiative is dedicated to Wounded, Injured, and Sick (WIS) veterans and their families re-entering the workforce, as well as Cadets and Spouses. Our first cohort in 2024/25 will focus on the WIS Community, ensuring they receive the attention and care they deserve
From 2015 to 2020, 282 WIS veterans, service leavers, and their families were supported through the unique Business Xperience enterprise programme, pioneered by XFE. Affectionally classed as our platinum programme thanks to the valuable input from Help for Heroes, the training provided many with the essential foundations needed for ‘lift off’ on their aspirations
For others, it represented a vital lifeline during incredibly challenging times, and built confidence, brick by brick, that enabled them to embark on their journey to professional independence at a pace that suited them The profound impact of the course was felt not only in career development terms but also in the significant boost to well-being.
The Soldiering On Academy, delivered by XFE, will revive this spirit of enterprise training for those economically inactive members of the Armed Forces community seeking to enter the workforce. Often, physical or mental health challenges can seem like insurmountable barriers - this programme is here to help veterans and their families, who have given so much to their country, to find a fulfilling life after service Focusing on lifelong enterprise skills, participants will be empowered to bridge
the gap from economic inactivity to flexible, promising futures.
The bespoke course content is meticulously designed to build confidence and foster an understanding of different sectors Using the construct of a business, students will learn foundational skills and gain a comprehensive understanding of how businesses operate.
This invaluable knowledge – coupled with XFE’s ongoing support and mentoring - can be harnessed to enhance the trajectory of their career pathways, whether they choose employment, a portfolio career, or selfemployment.
The importance of XFE’s structured support for WIS veterans is poignantly highlighted by a previous beneficiary, John Geden, founder of Sinah Common Honey: “XFE will help you consider your fledgling idea in forensic detail and make you focus and ask yourself difficult questions. It seemed that whenever I suffered a crisis of confidence there was someone there with a sensible answer at the end of the phone ”
Prof Gary Packham, Pro Vice Chancellor Student Enterprise and Entrepreneurship at Anglia Ruskin University, commented: “Enterprise skills are empowering, fuel creativity, and can help realise ambitions. For the Wounded, Injured, and Sick cohort, these skills – delivered through the Soldiering On Academy – could be transformative, and pave the way back into the workforce With the track record of X-Forces Enterprise in this arena, beneficiaries will receive not only high calibre training but a holistic approach that is tailored to their needs ”
CADETS IN ENTERPRISE
Connecting Cadets with the World of Business
A major focus of our commitment to supporting enterprise and entrepreneurship skills over the years has been on the nation’s youth, in particular members of the Cadet forces
While the core Cadet activities foster social interaction, develop essential teamwork and leadership skills among young people, it is important to equip them with a comprehensive understanding of the economic landscape, careers, and opportunities across a variety of industry sectors
This is where the EfL Cadets in Enterprise programme makes its profound impact, and has done since 2018
Enterprise skills empower Cadets through essential competencies needed to thrive in today's dynamic job market. Understanding concepts such as marketing, building a personal brand, supply and demand, budgeting, and more, instils a mindset of resourcefulness and adaptability This enables them to define their interests and strengths, paving the way for a fulfilling career path aligned with their passions and aspirations.
Integrating enterprise skills into Cadet training emphasises the importance of lifelong learning and professional development In today's rapidly evolving economy, individuals must possess a growth mindset and continuously acquire new skills to remain competitive. Additionally, enterprise skills complement their role as future leaders and contributors to society By cultivating traits such as stakeholder engagement, financial planning, and effective communications, Cadets are better equipped to tackle complex challenges and make meaningful contributions in their future endeavours.
LSEG: Hosts of the Cadet Graduation
The London Stock Exchange, an iconic symbol of British business and entrepreneurial endeavour, is the perfect setting for the Cadets' graduation. For many young people who have never been to London let alone welcomed into the Exchange, it is a powerful introduction to a prestigious institution that builds their confidence and broadens their sense of possibility – an integral aspect of our work for these promising young future leaders.
For many young people who have never been to London let alone welcomed into the Exchange, it is a powerful introduction to a prestigious institution that builds their confidence and broadens their sense of possibility
The latest programme - which took place in September 2024 - saw Army and RAF Cadets tasked with creating a venture that considered digital skills and net-zero. The hands-on group learning approach meant that by the end of the day they had the foundations of what is needed for a business not only to survive but thrive
It is testament to the validity and efficacy of the programme - coupled with the support of LSEG - that the Cadets fully embraced each task and absorbed themselves in their creative business plans, exploring aspects such as digital and traditional marketing communications and finance management While the social value of these programmes is inarguable, it is important to remember that they are helping shape the leaders of tomorrow.
“The course helped me understand that to achieve my dreams I need a plan, and that includes a financial plan!” - RAF Cadet
“I considered the things that are important to me and how to budget for them in order to live independently” - Army Cadet
“I’ve always thought I would want to go into business but I now have a better idea what that would involve, including the challenges Before it was just an idea ” - RAF Cadet
“We realised that before spending to produce a product we needed to think about how many customers we might get and how much they might be prepared to pay!” - Army Cadet
CONCLUSION
CEO and Founder, Ren Kapur MBE
My lifelong belief in the power of enterprise education to uplift and enable people and communities to reach their potential runs through the DNA of Enterprise for Life® (EfL) and its brands
By delivering enterprise skills training to groups who face challenging circumstances - whether they be transitioning from the Armed Forces or the Emergency Services, or those at risk of economic inactivity – we can equip them with the knowledge and tools to make meaningful decisions about their futures and make vital contributions to their communities and society itself
The invaluable support provided by LSEG allows EfL to take its programmes to greater numbers of people and to new sectors, allowing yet more individuals to access opportunities and avail themselves of the resources that have helped so many entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and small business owners across the UK.
Our partnership with LSEG, and its commitment to communities and economic empowerment, both enriches the provision and adds inestimable value to the experience of those looking to enhance their knowledge of entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship, whether they see their future as a business owner or a dynamic and key member of an employer’s team.
As an organisation we believe in the remarkable power of partnerships So much of what we deliver for the Armed Forces community, the Emergency Services, in the Education sector and beyond - from training to mentoring, from finance to the Soldiering On Awards - is built on collaboration
CONCLUSION
As CEO, I see it as our job to find the right corporate partners to fuel economic growth by enterprise, while improving social mobility and supporting career journeys. This richness of community is the magic of EfL and I am deeply proud of our shared commitment to delivering social value for our community
Through our partnership with big business (including LSEG) we have been able to react to market conditions to ensure the best policies and structures are provided to our communitybalancing this is our partnership with the Federation of Small Businesses
As a delivery partner to some of the UK’s leading tri-service military charities we continue to effect positive change in the lives of members of the military family.
With the support of our Soldiering On Awards partners we are able to shine a light on extraordinary individuals and organisations who selflessly dedicate themselves to helping others.
The brand new Soldiering On Academy will allow veterans and their families, who have given so much to their country, to have a fulfilling life after service. By focusing on lifelong learning skills, participants will be able to bridge the gap from economic inactivity to flexible future careers.
The work we have already done with LSEG has been hugely impactful, and I look forward to working with LSEG in the months and years to come - together we continue to make a difference.
