From Freelancer to Founder: The Inspiring Story of Beckie Denny

Meet Beckie Denny, the founder of The Charity Spark, a consultancy that helps charities elevate the voices of their beneficiaries and focus on the impact they generate. Learn how she made the transition from freelancer to founder...

Beckie started her self-employed journey as a freelancer in 2019, but faced the challenge of growing her business during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.

In search of support and guidance, Beckie enrolled in New Beginnings by Inspiration Space and found the resources she needed to successfully pivot and grow her business.

IS: How did you start The Charity Spark?

I started the business in 2019 as a freelancer and went on maternity leave in February 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

During my maternity leave, I struggled figuring out how to continue growing and serving clients while adhering to lockdown measures.

I decided to offer virtual services and enrolled in New Beginnings by Inspiration Space to help me navigate this transition and grow.

IS: What led you to New Beginnings and how did the program impact your journey from freelancer to founder?

New Beginnings is the only small business accelerator program I found that provided top-notch business mentorship.

I was able to overcome the challenges of moving from freelancer to founder with the structured feedback, entrepreneurial knowledge, and support I needed to validate my business ideas and focus on the core services of The Charity Spark.

With New Beginnings, I was able to pivot my business model to include virtual services, which led to a 37% increase in my financial year target and my first six-figure year three months ahead of schedule.

The Charity Spark has since gone on to work with major charities and share their impact story with funders, all thanks to the guidance and encouragement from experienced entrepreneurs who understand the unique barriers experienced by women founders.

IS: What big successes did you have with the New Beginnings program besides making money?

Joining New Beginnings program was a game-changer for me and my business.

It's not fluffy and it gave me the confidence to embrace my ambition. The support I received helped me navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, allowed me to focus on the core services of my business, and kept me motivated to stay true to my vision.

With access to valuable resources and the wisdom of experienced entrepreneurs, I grown beyond what I thought was possible before.

IS: What tips do you have for freelancers considering making the leap to founding a company?

My advice would be to seek out resources and support to help you navigate the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship.

It can be overwhelming trying to figure things out on your own, so finding guidance and encouragement from experienced professionals or trusted programs can be invaluable.

Additionally, it's important to stay focused and persevere through the ups and downs of starting and growing a business. I'm saying a little prayer of thanks for the opportunity this evening, but I also wanted to encourage you all to push forwards and lean into the vision.

As it turns out, you can make it a reality! Thanks to Liana Fricker for being a true encourager - I couldn't do it without Inspiration Space.

Unshakeable Ambition

Before the New Beginnings program, Beckie felt overwhelmed and uncertain about the direction of her business.

She was struggling in isolation trying to balance family life and navigate startup life in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic.

But with her unwavering spirit and drive to make a positive impact, Beckie Denny's journey from freelancer to founder in the charity sector stands as a testament to her determination and success.

Beckie's story is a source of inspiration and encouragement to aspiring entrepreneurs and startup founders, reminding us that with hard work and support, success is achievable.

Today, her work at The Charity Spark goes from strength to strength. She is delivering on her mission to positively impact others through her work.

Are you ready to take your business to the next level?

Go faster with Inspiration Space. Discover how we can help you accelerate your impact to support people, planet, and profit.