When asked why young people in Newham should see entrepreneurship as a viable option, Campbell says it's important to define entrepreneurship. "Lots of people see it as a job, it's actually a lifestyle and a sense of confidence. Those who are marginalised often show entrepreneurial spirit naturally." People in Newham are best placed to take advantage of the massive amount of business support available in the borough and opportunities arising from the 2012 games.
The Bright Ideas Trust is an altruistic enterprise set up by Tim Campbell to support start ups and provide guidance to young people who are talented and want to get into business. It's about helping young people that have "untapped potential, energy and talent" but who have never been given the opportunity.
On the question on how the Trust differentiates a great idea from one that is so-so, the Trust uses a network of venture capitalists, angel investors to determine the most likely candidates for success.
"Most people use friends and family to help them start up, in Newham not many people have that advantage, hence the importance of taking advantage of business support services available here." To engage with the Bright Ideas Trust, the starting point is through Business Link for London. Applicants should be under 30 years of age. There is a strong focus on the regeneration boroughs and in the not too distant future, the Trust will accept video applications where entrants can upload a video, (which could be from a mobile phone) outlining what their idea is about.
Tim Campbell wants to be remembered as someone with "integrity and dignity that used his talents to help others," and has one key message for budding entrepreneurs. "Follow your heart, but support your heart with your head." That means doing the numbers, planning your business, getting the right support and seeing entrepreneurship as a lifestyle.
