New entrepreneur in residence at Teesside University’s Launchpad

Start-up businesses at Teesside Launchpad are to benefit from the support of a social entrepreneur.

Pam Bennett, who has a wealth of experience in creating and running companies with social value, has been appointed as social entrepreneur in residence at Launchpad to help promote and support social enterprise.

Teesside Launchpad, based at Teesside University, is driving a start-up community on campus by providing affordable accommodation and professional advice and support for students, staff and graduates.

In 2008, Pam, who originally trained as an architect, set up Going for Independence, a community interest company that provides information on equipment and adaptations to help enable people with disabilities to live independently.

In 2016, she also founded Across The Board Games, which uses mobile phone technology to create board games that people with visual impairment can enjoy.

The company was given support by Teesside University through the DigitalCity Fellowship Accelerator and the Launchpad FUEL business development programme.

Steve Dougan, head of enterprise at Teesside University, said: “We are delighted to welcome Pam as social entrepreneur in residence at Launchpad.

“What struck me about Pam is she has created businesses which both drive income and create real social value.

“Traditionally, enterprise education has been skewed towards creating profit but without necessarily a social purpose.

“This generation of students are particularly motivated by their values and care about social issues so we wanted somebody at Launchpad who can help them create businesses which can make a positive impact on society.”

Pam, pictured with her daughter Sophie Bishop, added: “I’m passionate about how businesses can make a real difference in society.

“I’m really looking forward to working with the students and helping them create successful businesses, which generate real social return as well as profits.”