Stoke-on-Trent start ups invited to take part in the new ‘Business Elevator’
April 14, 2026
START UP businesses are to be given the opportunity to win dedicated hot desk space at a vibrant City Centre location, along with mentorship, networking opportunities and marketing support.
Thanks to a collaboration between Smithfield Works, the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Growth Hub along with PR firm BabaBaboon – The Business Elevator competition sees a prize package worth around £3,000 on offer.
The Business Elevator – which was launched at a recent Chambers One2Three Club networking event, held at Smithfield Works (26 March) – requires businesses in Stoke-on-Trent, of up to three years old, to initially enter via a short online registration form and those shortlisted will then be asked to take part in an informal meeting with the judging panel where they will be able to showcase their products and / or services.
The winner will receive a 12 months free hot desk space at Smithfield Works in Hanley, 12 months free start up membership at the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, plus a two-hour PR strategy session with Sonya Farrall of BabaBaboon.
Support will also be provided by the Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire Growth Hub.
Adele Simmons, Community Manager at Smithfield Works, said: “Smithfield Works is home to many start up businesses who either use our hot desks or office suites, and we want to be able to celebrate more Staffordshire businesses, which is why we are delighted to launch The Business Elevator in collaboration with the Chambers, Growth Hub and BabaBaboon.
“Personally, I come across many start up businesses who are all looking for a bit of extra support to help them along with their journeys, and we are hoping the prize which we have on offer for this competition will be a boost to someone’s business.”
Adele adds: “Entry for The Business Elevator is easy to do via the Smithfield Works website where those interested in applying are required to fill out a form which will go through to the judging process.”
Tom Nadin, Interim Deputy Chief Executive at the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “The Business Elevator is a fantastic opportunity for early-stage businesses to access the kind of support that can genuinely accelerate their growth.
“By bringing together workspace, expert mentoring, and practical marketing support, this initiative provides a strong foundation for ambitious start-ups to build from. At the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, we’re proud to be working in partnership to help nurture local entrepreneurial talent and ensure new businesses across Stoke-on-Trent have the best possible chance to thrive.”
Rachel Wood, Growth Hub Manager at the Stoke-on-Trent & Staffordshire Growth Hub said: “The Growth Hub is proud to support the Business Elevator scheme as part of our ongoing commitment to fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem within the City.
“Start up businesses play a vital role in driving future economic growth, innovation, and prosperity, and we are dedicated to championing their development.
“We encourage all businesses under three years old, from any sector, to explore this opportunity and submit an application. You have to be in it to win it.”
Sonya Farrall, of BabaBaboon, said: “I remember when I first started my business and it can be quite daunting when you are trying to access support and also to market you services.
“Therefore, I am delighted to be supporting this event and giving something back to a young business, as I completely understand what it’s like to get things moving along.”
Entries for the The Business Elevator need to be made via the Smithfield Works website here https://smithfield-works.com/ and close on Friday 29 May.
Judging will take place within two weeks following the deadline and an awards celebration evening will take place on Friday 26 June.
