Swansea's Entrepreneurial Star Shines Bright with Prestigious Award

In a remarkable achievement, Jess Hickman, the founder of Swansea-based agency The Cusp, has been named runner-up at the prestigious Stelios Foundation UK Young Entrepreneur Awards 2026. This accolade comes with a six-figure financial prize that Jess plans to reinvest into her burgeoning business, just two years after its inception with only £750.

From Startup to Success

The Cusp has swiftly evolved into a £2 million turnover enterprise, successfully catering to clients both in the UK and internationally. Impressively, over half of the company's revenue now originates from overseas markets, underscoring the global potential of a firm established right in Swansea.

A Validation of Purpose-Driven Business

According to Jess, this recognition transcends monetary gain, highlighting the core values that The Cusp 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 stated. The Cusp specializes in digital marketing, creative campaigns, and emerging technologies, impacting diverse sectors including education, engineering, and government.

Accelerating Growth and Job Creation

The £100,000 prize will be pivotal in propelling The Cusp to its next growth phase. Jess expressed her excitement, saying, "We’re at a really exciting stage. The prize fund will allow us to move faster on plans we already have in place, including bringing in specialist talent, expanding internationally, and opening a second UK office." This reflects not only her ambition but also her commitment to creating jobs and showcasing that significant achievements can be attained from any location.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Jess Hickman's journey is a testament to the spirit of resilience and innovation. The awards highlight how entrepreneurial talent can flourish outside traditional business hubs, and she aims to be a role model for future generations of business leaders. Through her success, The Cusp stands as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs in Swansea and beyond, proving that world-class talent indeed exists everywhere.