“I Had to Learn the Hard Way”: Manchester Entrepreneur Expands Mentorship Programme to Support Start-Ups

Manchester-based global entrepreneur Craig Cornick has announced the expansion of his growing mentorship programme, supporting business founders across the UK and Europe.

A well-known figure in the business community, Craig’s successful reputation comes from humble beginnings, growing up in a working-class background in the north of the city.

The 40-year-old has gone on to build and scale multiple ventures over the past 15 years across technology, finance and the legal sector.

His mentorship initiative, which began informally several years ago, has already helped a number of new entrepreneurs take their first steps in business.

Craig said: “I’ve been there, done it and felt the pain. When I started my journey, there was no one to turn to. I had to learn from mistakes the hard way.

“Mentorship came naturally to me as a way to give back and help others avoid those same pitfalls.”

Craig is the founder and CEO of IQuote Ltd, a technology and litigation finance firm that supports law firms in the UK, Europe and Australia.

The company provides funding solutions and data-led technology platforms that streamline how legal professionals manage complex financial cases.

“I’ve had many successes, but also some tough lessons,” Craig added.

“Markets can change overnight. Regulations move fast. I’ve faced industry model’s collapsing, firms losing the ability to trade, regulation hurdles and even the sudden loss of a CEO.

“Each experience forced me to adapt, rebuild, and learn. Those lessons have been instrumental in building the successful companies I run today.

“Now, I share the knowledge and hard-earned experience I’ve gained with every entrepreneur I mentor, helping them avoid potential pitfalls and providing a stronger foundation for growth.”

The mentorship programme offers mentees access to Craig’s personal experience and his wider professional network.

Participants are supported by a team of technology developers, legal advisers, marketing professionals, analysts and compliance experts.

Together, they help founders identify risks early, strengthen their strategies and grow with confidence.

“This programme is my way of giving back,” Craig said. “It’s about providing the kind of support and access I could never find when I was building my companies.”

Craig’s mentees come from a variety of industries including technology, consultancy, retail and digital services.

Many credit the programme with helping them refine operations, attract investment and develop the confidence to scale.

With interest continuing to grow, Craig plans to extend the programme further in 2026.

His goal is to reach more entrepreneurs across the North West, giving them access to mentorship, expertise and opportunity.

“The North West has incredible entrepreneurial talent,” Craig said. “If I can play even a small part in helping that community grow and thrive, that’s something I’m proud of.”