Established in 1986, incorporated in 1988, the principal aim of Firmstart (Manchester) Ltd is to assist in developing the economic base of the Hulme and Moss Side areas of Manchester UK . These are two districts immediately to the south of the city centre. Initially intensive support was offered to local people who were exploring self-employment for the first time. More recently Firmstart has developed into a specialist workspace provider. Though incorporated and functioning as a private company, Firmstart's aims are broadly social.
Having first set up in the neighbouring district of Ardwick, Firmstart relocated to the former St Wilfrid's Church in Hulme, in 1990, when the building was declared redundant as a place of worship, by its then owners, Salford Diocesan Trustees. The company continued to operate its enterprise schemes from this celebrated historic building and supported the growth of a number of new, local microbusinesses. By 1993 the company had purchased the property, and, under a self managed project utilising mostly local labour and subcontractors, converted the building into a managed workspace of some 20 units of various sizes. The St Wilfrid's Enterprise Centre opened on June 1st 1994.
Firmstart currently employs three members of staff. Various projects are now being developed, including bringing more of our services online to assist companies to locate good quality and affordable workspace in the Inner City South area of Manchester.
Firmstart owns and manages the St Wilfrid's Enterprise Centre in St Wilfrids, Hulme, and markets and manages the Cornbrook Enterprise Centre in the neighbouring St George's district.
Firmstart markets other serviced offices, business centres and conference and meeting facilities in the area south of Manchester.
Firmstart also supports and seeks to develop local business and other regenerative networks.