Jessica and Daniella of Betty and Bird regularly attend Striding Out events .

�We have found both Like-Minded and Dinner Matters events a great escape from isolation, and have come away enthused and inspired by people we've met. The events are very diverse and you can always tap into other people�s ideas. Everyone is so willing to help each other.
Striding Out has played a role in developing both professional relationships and friendships that have contributed to the success of our business."

Helen, founder of Global Sense, believes the Business Motivation Programme has broadened her view of the business, allowing her to define both her short and long-term objectives.

�The coaching sessions have added value to my business by making me think about the long term commericial goals for the business. Striding Out has boosted my connections in terms of customer leads and referrals and I have developed working relationships with other members. It has been very useful to have a dedicated coach who understands your goals and works throught them with you to achieve success."

Ben Keene has founded Tribewanted, a global project which aims to bring 5000 people together to develop a Sustainable community on an island in Fiji.

�Striding Out has been about connecting with like-minded people. The focus for me has been to increase my knowledge of Social and Ethical Responsibility issues. As a result of connecting with other Striding Out members I have been able to understand the issues, find experts and integrate their skills into my business. The coaching and the community has had a positive impact on the development of the business.�

Beth set up Huge PR at the age of 23, integrating a range of specialist PR services to meet the needs of the fashion and lifestyle industry.

"Striding Out has enabled me to promote my business via events, the website and blog section to potential affiliates and clients. I have met many like minded people that I can swap skills with, use the services of and even socialise with. Striding Out has helped me to expand my service offering to clients and make some great contacts - an invaluable source for sharing ideas, making contacts and having fun!"

Rob was working in the corporate world when he started toying with ideas. He came across Striding Out when he was looking for inspiration and support for launching Languages at Lunch .

"I have met lots of other like-minded people through the Striding Out events. I used to think that I was the only 20-something who wanted to break out of my day job and run my own business. Now I have discovered that there are lots of others and they have given me inspiration, ideas and encouragement to stride out on my own."

Tom is a serial entrepreneur, having set up his first business four years ago, he now runs Blue Ventures, Travel Roots , and Tip the Planet. He is constantly exploring new ideas and opportunities.

"In the last couple of years, Striding Out has done literally that, helping to excite, engage and connect a plethora of entrepreneurs. Since joining, I have seen the organisation and its influence grow and made fantastic connections with people who've helped me with my ideas."

Cath is the founder of Unpackaged, and the Winner of the Big Leap Competition 2006.

"The coaching programme I undertook with Striding Out has been of significant value to the development of Unpackaged from idea to reality.
Having a coach can help on many levels: breaking problems down into manageable pieces, identifying priorities to work on, putting you in touch with the expert advice that's available and offering a different perspective on the challenges you face. "

Belinda Hall and Gyula Toth have launched Tug Inc, a brand of lifestyle trolleys and accessories for multi-purpose living.

"The In2Fashion networking events are really interesting, with good, energetic people to present their top tips!It is great to have the opportunity to speak with other experienced people in the industry"