Six Leverage cohorts creating impact in NENW

UNE SMART Region Incubator’s Entrepreneurs’ Leverage Program helps founders and entrepreneurs grow their businesses. An unexpected but valuable community outcome, is that each cohort also donates bikes to local children!

Most recently, a collection of small bikes found their forever homes via Tamworth Family Support Services (TFSS).

TFSS CEO Belinda Kotris said she was thankful for this generosity.

“Riding a bike is one of those skills that stays with you for life. This donation will have long-term health and social benefits for families in the region.”

UNE SRI’s Sewa Emojong, TFSS CEO Belinda Kotris, TFSS staff Taylor McKenzie and Heidi Jeffrey and bikes at Giant Tamworth.

Mandy Walker, UNE SRI Expert in Residence and Focus First Business Coach, leads the Leverage Program - mentoring founders and business owners throughout the high impact, 12-month program. It is experiential, not just theoretical and participants learn through activities including group discussions and games.

After the bikes fulfill their Leverage role, Mandy generously pays to have them serviced and checked for roadworthiness and safety - most recently at Giant Tamworth (formerly BC Bike Shop).