5 days ago
- Business
- South Wales Argus
Career renovation for Newport man is thanks to Business Wales
Michael Vowles launched Newport-based MVP Tiling and Decorating in May 2024, offering high-quality painting, decorating, and tiling services. However, the journey to becoming his own boss has not been straight forward.
Originally an apprentice mechanic, Michael was forced to leave the trade and focus on recovery after being diagnosed with spinal degeneration.
He turned to painting and decorating by enrolling in a course with Access Wales, which helped him acquire the training he needed for a career change.
With new skills at his disposal and his medical condition under control, Michael worked as part a of a warehouse maintenance team until 2022, but was made redundant after his employer went into administration.
Through the Welsh Government's ReAct+ programme, he secured funding for a tiling course.
Michael's former boss also encouraged him to contact to Business Wales for help to set up his business.
Business Wales adviser Ian Harvey guided him through the process and identified a £2,000 grant which allowed him to buy a dustless sanding system, used to minimise the amount of dust created through decorating.
This equipment has been key to Michael being able to provide services to customers who are dealing with their own health conditions.
Michael said: 'When I was made redundant, I knew this was my chance to make a change. I've always loved the idea of being my own boss and this was sort of a now or never moment.
'The grant funding has helped me to source equipment I wouldn't have been able to purchase out of my own pocket.
'I've faced a lot of challenges in my career, but thanks to the support I've received from Business Wales, I'm now in a position to build a reputable and sustainable business.'
Ian Harvey, said: 'Michael is a great example of what can be achieved through resilience and determination. He came to us very prepared but needed help with where to start. To see the progress he has made in such a short time should be applauded."
Business Wales is funded by Welsh Government.
