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OutsideIn founder shares how he took his business from ‘Spare Room to Stellar’ in resource for budding Belfast entrepreneurs

Posted By:
Belfast City Council

1st Mar 2022

David Johnston, founder of Belfast-based business with purpose, OutsideIn, is the first to share his story in 2022 on a Belfast City Council online resource which aims to inspire people to start their own business and signpost them towards the right support.

Councillor Ryan Murphy, Chair of Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee said: “It’s really inspirational to see and hear how David started with very little, beyond a strong desire to help people experiencing homelessness. With focus, hard work and determination, he’s built OutsideIn, an incredibly successful streetwear brand which has a really positive social impact.  I’d encourage anyone thinking about starting a business to go online to www.spareroomtostellar.com, watch the films and sign up to get our support – we’ve got a team of experts on hand, ready to help!”

David Johnston of OutsideIn says: “I started off with nothing but a vision and a passion to help those less fortunate. OutsideIn is now a one of the UK’s fastest growing streetwear brands and through our ‘wear one share one’ model, every time a customer purchases an item, an additional item is given to someone experiencing homelessness.

“If sharing my story inspires others to give their business idea a go, I’ll be delighted. Taking a small idea and growing it is what the Spare Room to Stellar resource is all about. After all, I started my business in my mum’s spare room too!  There’s fantastic support available for people starting out on their own in business – and we want to see more people getting out there and giving it a shot.”

In the coming weeks, people will also hear how Lynsey Bennett, co-founder of Lusso tan started her ever-expanding, revolutionary tanning brand providing inspiration and tips for early-stage businesses and entrepreneurs alike. 

The resource is supported by Danske Bank and Pacem Accounting and Tax Advisory. To watch the stories and get the signposting and support you need to start your own business, go to www.spareroomtostellar.com