Companies I Have Built

  • Arc Club

    Business Development & Mentorship

    Established in 2024 Arc Club was born out of my desire to provide support to people who have a goal but lack the experience needed to guarantee they will achieve it. Through one-on-one and group mentorship we support 25 businesses a month to succeed.

  • OWNI

    Circular Fashion Tech

    Established in 2021 OWNI’s mission is to tackle the fashion waste problem with two key approaches. Firstly empowering shoppers to understand what the own through an AI powered digital wardrobe of their clothes. Secondly to empower brands to manage the lifespan of the products they sell through a suite of B2B resale software .

  • Sancho's

    Sustainable Fashion Retail .

    Established in in 2015 Sancho’s in an omni-channel muti-brand retailer of sustainable fashion. Sancho’s helps shoppers trying to make conscious shopping decisions by souring a carefully curated range of sustainably and ethically made pieces. Then making them available to buy in a one stop ‘susty’ shop!

What I Love Doing

  • Kalkidan Legesse MBA

    MBA

    Business Development

    With an MBA and a proven track record, I've successfully grown multiple businesses to profitable turnovers and through exits. As an entrepreneur, I've developed a well-rounded skill set encompassing everything from hiring to marketing to product development. I excel in B2B sales and building robust sales pipelines, ensuring sustained growth and profitability. Additionally, I'm proficient in enhancing operational efficiency of revenue models and consequently driving them toward financial success.

  • Investment, Grants & Crowdfunding.

    Early-Stage Fundraising

    Fundraising is one of my passions, as it enables me to provide great businesses with the resources they need to thrive. Over the past seven years, I have successfully raised upwards of £500K through various channels, including winning grants at Santander Universities competitions and from Google For Start Ups securing angel investments & VC capital using SEIS & EIS and running a successful crowdfunding campaign.

  • Events, Awards & Television

    Brand Development

    Brand development is one of my key strengths and passions. I have successfully secured PR from prestigious international outlets. My efforts in brand building include organising impactful events like the Slow Fashion Show, which attracted 700 attendees, and being featured in a BBC documentary on leadership. Recognised for my achievements, I've been honoured as a Vogue Innovator 100, included in Drapers 30 Under 30, and listed in Business Insider's 42 Under 42.

Consulting & Community

  • Research & Writing

    Writer & Activist

    I have supported organisations in developing their diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies, notably coordination the Devon City Council's DEI 10 year Report. My commitment to fostering inclusive environments is reflected in my research and strategic guidance. Additionally, I have written extensively on entrepreneurship, with my articles featured in respected publications such as The Guardian. Through my writing and research, I aim to promote inclusive practices and share valuable insights on entrepreneurial success

  • Speaking

    Key Note Speaker & Panelist

    I have had the privilege of sharing my entrepreneurial journey in retail and technology through various keynote presentations and panel discussions. My engagements include speaking at the Pure London Trade Show, The University of Exeter, Barclays Bank, The Met Office, and other esteemed organisations. These opportunities allow me to provide insights on business growth, innovation, and leadership.

  • Advise & Support

    Non-Executive Board Member

    In my role with Liveable Exeter, I support city leaders in coordinating developments that meet the needs of small business owners and entrepreneurs, ensuring that urban growth aligns with the community's economic and entrepreneurial goals. Additionally, as a member of the Devon Energy Climate Task Force, I collaborate with civil servants and scientists to review and advance climate management research and initiatives. These roles allow me to contribute to sustainable urban development and environmental stewardship while supporting the interests of local businesses and entrepreneurs.