A former student of the University of Wales, Newport has been named as the University’s Graduate Entrepreneur of the Year 2012 last week.
21 year old Ryan Welch left the University this year after graduating from Photography for Fashion and Advertising used his time at University to set up Ryan Welch Photography a specialist wedding photography business based at his studio in Cwmbran. The growth of his firm over the last few years means that he is already well established, despite the fact he only graduated this summer.
The award was presented last week at the University’s fifth Enterprise Dinner and Awards which showcased the success of Newport’s Bright Ideas programme which supports budding student and graduate entrepreneurs with funding and advice.
The Bright Ideas Den, which is supported financially by local entrepreneur and University supporter Dr Alf Gooding OBE gives students and graduates the chance to pitch for funding of up to £1,000 to support them in setting up in business. Over the last year, it has supported 12 businesses financially, including Ryan Welch Photography and many more through expert advice and guidance. The Bright Ideas Programme also holds regular events and business surgeries for budding entrepreneurs.
Ryan Welch said: “I’m delighted with this award; it was totally unexpected but really appreciated. To get recognition for what you’ve done really helps you to continue to develop your ideas.
“When I decided to set up the business, I had taken over the premises and refurbished it into a studio, but unfortunately I had run out of money before being able to buy signage and promotional materials.
“It was absolutely fantastic to win the Bright Ideas Den as the money came at exactly the right time, and I was able to have the signage and marketing that I wanted, giving the right impression to potential clients straight away.”
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