Bike, Hike and Paddle is an outdoor education business founded by Dave and Kirsty Phillips.
An approved activity provider with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, providing training for and supervision of the expedition element of the Duke of Edinburgh Award.
Dave, 46, who has over 25 years experience in the outdoor industry, and Kirsty,47,started the business last year.
Although the couple, based in Crosby, near Maryport, had a small inheritance to help with its set up, they needed more investment for the right equipment to help deliver expeditions professionally and safely.
The pair contacted Cumbria Business Growth Hub and applied for a grant scheme funded by the Rural England Prosperity Fund, provided through Cumberland Council.
They were awarded a grant of £20,000 which contributed to the purchase of equipment including a mini bus, trailer, canoes, walking equipment, and camping equipment
Once fully equipped, Bike, Hike and Paddle was able to get licenced to provide expeditions.
They are now advertising to schools with bookings starting in September and offering open expeditions over the summer for individuals to join.
They are also now positioned to help out schools let down by other providers.
Dave and Kirsty shared that the grant application process, while detailed, was made manageable thanks to support from the growth hub.
They said: “It’s a long process for those not used to form filling, but the help available ensured we were able to complete it.”
The next phase of growth for Bike, Hike and Paddle involves investing in its online presence and booking process, the couple said.
