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Zimupa Ltd

Business Startup

About Zimupa Ltd

Zimupa is an internet start-up developing the first true social network for entrepreneurs and investors. The founders are Tina and Paul Bilan. Tina graduated from the University of Nottingham with an MA in International Relations and is currently working towards her MBA, also at Nottingham. Paul is a graduate in Computer Science from Manchester University.

How the project is being undertaken

Any University of Nottingham graduate run start-up business is eligible to apply to join the Enterpriselab. Applicants are asked to provide an outline business plan describing their idea but enrolment is a relatively straight forward procedure. Zimupa have been members of the Enterpriselab since May 2007.

The lab provides the following ongoing support to members:

  • Access to the physical resources at the lab (hot-desks, meeting rooms and office facilities)
  • Use of the lab’s Science Park address
  • Mentoring and business advice from staff
  • Access to professional business advisors through the ‘business surgery’ model at no cost to the business
  • Networking opportunities

Impacts and benefits

Zimupa are a small start-up business with big ambitions but limited resources. Membership of the lab has provided them with a supportive low cost environment in which to grow their business.

‘The Enterpriselab has been pivotal and a vital resource for Zimupa.’ Paul Bilan, Zimupa.

Specific examples of the benefits of membership include:

  • Zimupa required both a part time developer and a designer to assist them with the development of their site. The nature of the work made it ideal for students looking for part time, flexible employment. Through the lab network and with the help of the Computer Science department, two suitable students were found and engaged. Their technical skills and enthusiasm have had a positive impact on Zimupa and the speed at which the project has progressed. As well as the advantages to the company, the students are receiving work experience in a live development environment and have a foot in the door of an exciting Web development company.
  • Zimupa were recently assisted with their entry for the Anubis III business technology competition by lab staff. This EMDA funded initiative is designed to help technology companies invest in the ICT they require to grow. Zimupa were successful in their application and one of only ten companies to be awarded a grant of £10,000 in the East Midlands.

For more information about the project

If you would like to hear more about the Enterpriselab, please contact Dan Edge
Email: dan.edge@nottingham.ac.uk
Telephone: 0115 8466950

Duration

Most graduate businesses accepted are supported for a period of at least twelve months. There is no stipulation that those engaged are recent graduates.

University

The University of Nottingham

Contact

Dan Edge

0115 8466950

Website

Zimupa