From £750 to a Million: The Inspiring Journey of The Cusp’s Jess Hickman
Swansea-based entrepreneur Jess Hickman has made headlines by turning a modest initial investment into a thriving business, showcasing the potential for remarkable growth outside of the UK's traditional business hubs. As the runner-up for the prestigious Stelios Foundation UK Young Entrepreneur Awards 2026, Hickman not only brings home a substantial cash prize but also demonstrates the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.
Rapid Growth in Two Short Years
Founded just two years ago with an initial capital of £750, Jess Hickman’s agency, The Cusp, has rapidly developed into a £2 million turnover business. The agency, specializing in digital marketing and creative campaigns, now boasts a diverse client portfolio that spans across the UK and international markets. This significant growth underlines Hickman's ability to adapt in an ever-evolving industry and to pioneer innovative strategies that are increasingly relevant in today’s digital landscape.
A Meaningful Recognition
Winning the runner-up position at the Stelios Foundation awards signifies more than just monetary gain; it is a validation of Hickman's ethos that commercial success and positive societal impact can coexist. She emphasizes that her firm's dedication to creating value extends beyond mere profit, stating, “Being recognised in the Stelios Young Entrepreneurs Awards is hugely meaningful to me because it validates what we set out to prove — that businesses can be both profitable and purpose-driven.” This perspective is vital in an era where consumers are increasingly conscious of the corporate responsibility of brands.
Investing in Future Growth
The £100,000 prize fund will enable The Cusp to accelerate its growth plans, including the recruitment of specialized talent and an expansion into overseas markets. Hickman expresses excitement about the firm’s trajectory, noting, “We’re at a really exciting stage. The prize fund will allow us to move faster on plans we already have in place.” This forward-thinking approach not only promises to bolster the agency’s services but also supports job creation and further establishes the economic landscape in Swansea.
Making Waves in Swansea
Hickman’s success story adds to the narrative of Swansea's growing reputation as a hub for innovative and high-growth businesses. The emphasis on international reach suggests that major opportunities exist outside traditional business districts, reinforcing the idea that talented entrepreneurs can emerge from any location. Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, founder of the awards, praised the winners for their potential to inspire future generations, an ethos that Hickman embodies through her work and vision.
The Cusp’s journey illuminates the reality that with determination and strategic foresight, any aspiring entrepreneur can achieve remarkable success, creating positive change in their communities and beyond. As Hickman prepares for the next chapter of her business, her story will undoubtedly inspire many to pursue entrepreneurial dreams, emphasizing that location is not a barrier to success.
