Council grant helps Andover business Crystal Calling grow
A small business in Andover specialising in crystals and offering crystal jewellery is taking its next step with support from a £750 Test Valley Borough Council business incentive grant.
Crystal Calling, run by Laura Whitfield, has been growing steadily through online sales and trading at local markets and events. The Business Incentive Grant has provided a boost to help as it moves into a retail setting while continuing to grow its digital presence. The business is now located in My Fab Finds Emporium on Weyhill Road, Kenyans Yard in Andover. This gives customers the chance to experience the collection in person.
Laura said: “Crystal Calling was created to offer a more intuitive and personal way for people to choose crystals, focusing on how they feel, rather than what they’re ‘supposed’ to mean.
“As a mum of three, building Crystal Calling has been about turning something I’ve always been drawn to, into a real growing business. I’ve loved crystals since I was young, so being able to share that in a grounded and accessible way feels incredibly meaningful. Being supported by the Business Incentive Grant has been a key step in helping me grow Crystal Calling within the local community and beyond.”
Laura plans to trade at future town centre events, and she has also benefited from Test Valley Borough Council’s Small Business Support Service, that offers free advice and training opportunities to help develop marketing and sales.
Test Valley Borough Council is committed to supporting local businesses through various initiatives and grants. The Business Incentive Grant is designed to help new businesses located in Test Valley achieve their goals and contribute to the local economy. You must apply for the grant within eight weeks of starting to trade, and the Council will award the money once you have been up and running for a minimum of six months.