In March 2022, we launched Hatch: We invited small businesses for their chance to win free retail space for six weeks later in the year. We knew Milton Keynes was home to a high number of small businesses and start ups, but even despite that, we were blown away by the number, variety and calibre of the applications we received. Following a pitch with our shortlisted applicants, we selected two businesses to receive this chance of a lifetime. Both businesses opened in summer 2022 and both went on to stay!
Hatch created a number of links between us and our small business community that has provided new opportunities for us to work together: