People’s Champion Finalist 2017: Steer73

Start-up name: Steer73
Founders: Phil Woodward
Started in: July 2014
Based in: London
Business description: A service company, developing digital products and services

Shortlisted category:

The Start Up Loans Inspiring Entrepreneur of the Year

The Steer73 story:

Launching Steer73 in July 2014, it’d be reasonable to assume that it’s been pretty rosy in the garden for entrepreneur Phil Woodward as his start-up celebrates its third birthday. But the truth is something quite different.

Only three months in, Woodward had secured a substantial investment from a single investor and things were looking good. However, just three days prior to the agreed transfer date, the deal was called off due to a change in circumstances.

Admitting he was in “dire straits” without the injection of cash it’d been expecting, the company had just days to meet payroll. Insolvency was looming.

Having lost a business previously, this sudden development was mentally tough for Woodward. But he got through it (thanks to a Start Up Loan), and the business hasn’t looked back since.

Now employing 20 members of staff, the growing business designs and develops digital products from high profile consumer apps through to full B2B business systems. Expecting to hit a headcount of 25 before the end of the year, high-profile clients include the likes of Chubb Fire & Security and Paddy Power.

London-based but taking full advantage of modern, remote methods of working, Steer73 employs developers throughout the UK and has teams in the Ukraine and India.

Expecting the next 12 months to be “really exciting”, Woodward has set his sights on even more recruitment. He also plans to add to the sectors Steer73 currently operates in, which includes everything from security, to gambling and mental health.  

Why Steer73 made our shortlist:

A truly inspirational story of overcoming adversity and building a top-class business. Woodward was able to steer his venture from the jaws of defeat into something really worth celebrating. Is Steer73 your People’s Champion?

Where to find out more about Steer73:

Website: www.steer73.com
Twitter: @steer73