Swansea Entrepreneur Shakes Up the Industry: A Journey of Success
Jess Hickman, the founder of The Cusp, has taken the entrepreneurial scene by storm, recently being named the runner-up in the prestigious Stelios Foundation UK Young Entrepreneur Awards 2026. This accolade not only acknowledges her remarkable journey but also comes with a lucrative six-figure prize to further fuel her growing business, just two years after it was launched with a modest £750.
The Rise of The Cusp
From a small startup, The Cusp has burgeoned into a powerhouse with a turnover of £2 million. Operating from Swansea, the agency has successfully expanded its client base nationally and internationally, with over half of its revenue now stemming from overseas markets. This impressive growth underscores not only the potential of local businesses but also the global competitiveness of firms founded outside traditional business hubs.
The Meaning Behind the Recognition
Jess expressed that this recognition transcends financial reward, serving as validation for the core values her business embodies. “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,” she remarked. This sentiment highlights a growing trend among young entrepreneurs who prioritize social impact alongside financial success.
Plans for Expansion
The substantial £100,000 award will catalyze The Cusp's plans for rapid growth, including the recruitment of specialized talent and the opening of a second office in the UK. Hickman noted, “We’re at a really exciting stage,” indicating her ambition to accelerate the company’s trajectory and enhance its service offerings across various sectors such as education, engineering, and government.
A Model for Future Entrepreneurs
Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, the founder of the awards, stated that winners like Jess serve as inspiring role models for upcoming entrepreneurs, emphasizing their role in job creation and economic growth. The competition attracted over 60 entrants, showcasing a wealth of talent and innovation in the UK entrepreneurial landscape. The success story of The Cusp reflects the potential for remarkable growth and success in less traditional markets like Swansea, proving that location is no barrier to achievement.
With the backing from the Stelios Foundation and increased investment, The Cusp is poised not only to expand its operations but also to create new job opportunities, signifying the burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit within Swansea. This achievement serves as a beacon of inspiration for both local businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing that determination and innovative thinking can lead to remarkable accomplishments regardless of geography.
