The founder of the first escape room business in Derby has told how a charity founded by Prince Charles helped her get her venture off the ground.
Three years ago, Michelle Burton opened Make Your Escape, in Osmaston Road, at a time when the craze for the Crystal Maze-style venues was really starting to take hold.
She founded the business after being made redundant for the second time in her career. But while she was unemployed she came up with the idea of bringing the escape room concept - which challenges teams to escape a room by solving clues in a set period of time - to Derby.
And it was The Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme that helped her get the business off the ground.
Looking back Michelle said that the uncertainty of finding a new job was unsettling and it knocked her confidence.
She said: “It was a really difficult time, being at home I found myself feeling isolated and not knowing what I was going to do next.”
Michelle discovered escape rooms some years ago and loved the experience, so much so, that she decided it could be a viable business in Derby and an opportunity to rebuild her life. However, she had no idea how to start a business.
She said: “The Prince’s Trust was amazing. Through the enterprise programme they helped me with my business plan, provided me with training courses, a brilliant mentor and a small business loan.
“They made me realise that it was achievable if I put the work in. They gave me the confidence to go for it.
“Three years on, I’m now a limited company, employ 10 staff and I’ve designed and built four games, which are nationally recognised within the escape room community. And through the Trust I’ve met so many interesting people.”
Recently the business received a visit from Lord Burlington, the High Sheriff of Derbyshire and John Booth, chairman of The Prince’s Trust.
Michelle said: “Meeting the High Sheriff has been a high point and a great opportunity to showcase my business and demonstrate how far I have come personally with the help of the Trust.
“I’m keen that even more young people in Derbyshire have the opportunity to succeed with the help of The Prince’s Trust.”
The Prince’s Trust Enterprise programme offers support and funding to help young people aged 18 to 30 explore their business ideas. They receive one-to-one and group support with Prince’s Trust staff and volunteer business mentors.
To find out more about starting a business or to volunteer as a business mentor contact The Prince’s Trust on 0800 842 842 or visit princes-trust.org.uk.
