LYST is a registered Charity and its primary aim is to provide suitable, affordable premises with relevant, timely and comprehensive on-site business and personal development support, including finding innovative ways of increasing sales. It does this through a developing network of Business Incubation Centres, across London.
Affordable small business units
We offer affordable small business units, with rent increasing to a commercial rate over 3 years. Each Centre has a Centre Manager who is available to provide business advice and support. LYST offers a number of other support activities, which may change from time to time.
Who we help
LYST aims to work with the less advantaged, who will be aged 18-30 and previously unemployed. We are particularly keen to work with people from black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, women and people with disabilities. Units are only available for young people who are serious about making a fulltime living out of self employment and not for lifestyle or part time activities (however, we accept that many people will take on part time jobs in the early stages of the development of their business).
How to apply
Firstly, you must you feel sure that you fit the above description. If you are referred to LYST by one of our partner agencies (eg The Prince’s Trust, UnLtd, KIS Training) and come with a completed business plan, then we will you will only require an interview with the appropriate Centre Manager to be accepted on the scheme.If you come direct to LYST, then the process will take longer and your application will require the approval of one of LYST’s trustees or the local committee. In any event, we will help you approach an appropriate funding body and if you already have a business plan, that will save a great deal of time.
In either case, please click on Contact LYST on the menu and choose the contact details of the most convenient Centre to get in touch with the appropriate Centre manager – preferably by telephone in the first instance.
Photographs by www.jacopopandolfi.com