Former freelancer, Mike Gittins has started his own video
production company with help from St Helens Chamber and Enterprise Hub.
After working on freelance projects for the last decade, Mike decided
to go into business for himself and has already attracted some high profile
clients.
He said: “Sundown Films specialise in video content production
which help businesses raise the profile online through video, generate brand
awareness, and increase sales and SEO rankings.
“We are currently working with Holiday Inn Express for the next 12
months, producing social media and video content for them to raise more
awareness about their company and what they offer to the audience.”
Mike studied TV and film production at university and has had a
varied career in the sector including freelance work and teaching.
He said: “I studied video content producing at University and for
the past ten years I have done freelance film work, some teaching in Geneva, short
films and promotional material.
“I decided to start a business so I would have regular work coming
in as I have had a family and wanted to produce something for my son’s future
and the security of my family.”
Mike had previously attempted to start a business and although he
managed to secure work, he felt the scope was limited due to inexperience in
running a business and a lack of support available.
“When I left University, I
started a business which I think was naïve as we were inexperienced on the
business side of things. Although we did some work, we weren’t able to take
that bigger step.
“But this time with Sundown Films, the advice and support I’ve had
from the Chamber has been great. If you utilise the help on offer then you can
really benefit from it.”
For Mike being part of the Chamber has given him the opportunity
to access a readymade business community and the support of other Members,
which he feels has been instrumental to his success.
Mike made contact with the Chamber’s Business Start Up service
which enabled met with a dedicated business Start Up adviser to discuss her
business plan.
He said: “Going through the Start Up programme, I’ve grown my
business alongside other companies. A lot of them have supported me and we help
each other to grow.
“I knew how to go about networking, but I needed help with how to
sustain a business, which I think is often a problem for start-ups. The Chamber
helped me focus on what I needed to do to get longevity out of my business.
“I would recommend the Chamber’s Start Up programme without a
shadow of a doubt, the support you get from the staff and Chamber Members is so
beneficial. Whether you are a company with a number of staff or work on your
own, it’s so good have the support there.”
Mike has high hopes for the future and would like to grow and
establish his company as a key player in video production.
He said: “As
well as looking to move into premises in the Liverpool area, I want to help
businesses understand and really utilise video marketing”
To find out more about Sundown Films visit the website at http://www.sundownfilms.co.uk/
St Helens Chamber is part of Enterprise
Hub, the enterprise gateway for business start-up support in Merseyside.
Offering expert advice and support to anyone thinking about starting a business
including help to:
- Understand the process of starting a business
- Research a business idea
- Build a comprehensive business plan
- Develop a marketing plan
- Create financial forecasts to understand the costs of running your business and potential income
- Identify sources of finance to get started
Enterprise Hub is funded by the European Regional Development Fund. For more information about the support available email us on enterprisehub@thewo.org.uk or ring us on 0151 706 8113
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