Pizza Hut relaunches New Founder Programme

Pizza Hut has relaunched its New Founder Programme, a two-stage initiative, offered in partnership with Hatch, designed to offer entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds the skills needed to establish their own businesses.

A study recently carried out by the company found that almost two-thirds (65%) of people with an additional income stream would love to give up their day job to focus on their passion project and turn it into a full-time career. 

Yet, over a third fear a lack of consistent income would be the main barrier, while 23% are uncertain about the market demand for their offering. Twenty-three percent have already been knocked back when trying to scale up – and this stat grows to 37% for those from underrepresented communities. One in four of those from underrepresented communities do not have access to capital or funding to help them expand, while 29% have limited time and resources to scale their side hustle. 

Elevating the side hustle

The Launchpad phase of Pizza Hut's New Founder Programme is a selective 13-week process for early-stage entrepreneurs who want to turn their business idea into a reality. The Incubator phase is a selective 16-week programme for those who have already started making money, or have customers, clients or one part-time staff member and want to turn their side hustle into a full-time job. Nine in 10 founders supported since the programme's inception in 2021 have said they left with better business management skills and an average increase of 35% in turnover. 

Emily Curtis, head of people, operators and social purpose at Pizza Hut UK&I, comments: "Britain is full of would-be entrepreneurs who just need a helping hand. But there are many barriers impacting entrepreneurs, and we know from our work in this area that some groups continue to be overlooked by investors. It is so important that everyone has the same opportunities to pursue ventures they are passionate about, and despite beginning this journey back in 2021, the issue today remains as prevalent, if not more so, as it was back then."

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