In November 2024, I joined the Start-up Programme, “How to Start a Business the Right Way”, organised by Berkshire Growth Hub and delivered by Ant Parsons from ALP Synergy Limited. Most founders in the room were at the very beginning of their journey. Some had only just developed an idea, while others were still exploring whether entrepreneurship was the right path for them.
Starting a business can feel overwhelming. There are many elements to consider at once: financial planning, product or service development, marketing, sales, and legal structures. At the time, I was slightly further along in my journey. The idea for my business first emerged in 2021, and by the time of the first workshop session, the prototype of my motorcycle jacket was already in development.
However, even with progress, doubt can still arise. As a solo founder, it is easy to question whether you are moving in the right direction.
Learning the Foundations
The programme focused on the fundamentals of building a viable and sustainable business.
During the workshops, Ant guided us through the core principles every founder should understand. We discussed business models, planning, and how to structure an idea into something that could realistically succeed in the market.
For some participants, the goal was to turn an idea into a structured plan. For me, the programme became a valuable moment of reflection.
Building a business alone often means spending a great deal of time in your own head. Being surrounded by other founders helped to step outside of that mindset. It also reinforced that uncertainty is entirely normal. Many people in the room were facing the same questions and doubts. Seeing this helped to normalise the emotional side of starting a business.
Key Milestones Along the Way
The programme did not suddenly transform my business, but it reinforced something important: it gave me confidence that I was generally on the right path. Sometimes, that reassurance is enough to keep moving forward.
Looking back, the journey since the idea first formed in 2021 has included several key milestones:
- Summer 2024, before the jacket was even completed, I secured my first retail partner in Germany.
- December 2024, the motorcycle jacket prototype was finalised.
- November 2025, I launched the jacket at EICMA, the international motorcycle exhibition in Milan, where initial sales were made through pre-orders.
- January 2026, the first finished jackets were delivered to retail partners.
- By March 2026, the brand had expanded to two additional retail partners across Europe, and I am currently working to secure the right retail partner in the UK.
To date, the business has been entirely bootstrapped, and I am now exploring funding options alongside future product development.
Lessons for Future Founders
If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone considering starting a business, it would be this: don’t overthink it. If you wait for everything to be perfect, you may never begin. Some strategies only become clear once you take the first step.
Be prepared for a long-term commitment. Progress is often slower than expected.
Stay consistent. Attend events, join networking sessions, and surround yourself with other founders. Speaking with people on a similar journey is a powerful reminder that you are not alone, many of us experience the same challenges and emotional highs and lows. It is also important to seek professional guidance. Many counties across the UK provide access to business advisors through local support hubs.
Looking Ahead
What motivates me most is seeing women who previously had limited choice in motorcycle gear, finally finding clothing they enjoy wearing. Women in motorcycling have often been treated as a secondary market. Yet many women ride motorcycles, and many more ride as pillions. We are very much part of this industry.
Through Linda-Jean Women’s Motorcycle Fashion, I aim to help shift that perspective. Every rider who finds clothing that fits well and makes her feel confident on the bike is a strong reason to continue building.
Linda-Jean Belvedere
Founder | Director | Motorcyclist