MYONLINECOACH

Founders: Lesley Calland

Industry/sector: Training and Development

Key product/service: workplace coaching

Website: myonlinecoach.io

The Challenge

What problem was the startup trying to solve?

The startup set out to solve a key problem in the coaching industry: a lack of regulation and transparency. Many organisations struggled to source qualified coaches they could trust, often relying on word-of-mouth or inconsistent recommendations. There was no easy way to verify credentials, ensure quality, or manage coaching provision at scale — making it difficult for employers to provide timely, consistent support to their teams.

What challenges or limitations did they face before joining the accelerator? (e.g., product development, market access, fundraising, team building)

Before joining the accelerator, the main challenges were the lack of a trusted network, limited access to relevant insights, and the isolation that often comes with building a business alone. As a solo founder, I needed strategic guidance from experienced advisors, peer support to share the journey with, and a space to test ideas, learn quickly, and gain confidence in my decisions.

Why Exchange?

What made them apply to your programme?

The supportive and high-energy environment was a major draw. As a solo founder, I was looking for a place that combined structure with encouragement, somewhere I could access guidance, build momentum, and feel part of something bigger. The reputation of the programme and the culture of the team made it a natural fit.

What stood out about your offering? (Mentorship, funding, community, expertise, facilities)

The programme offered a rich variety of input, from expert mentorship and targeted workshops to peer learning and community support. The helpful, down-to-earth culture of the team made it easy to ask for help, share challenges, and gain insight from people who truly understood the startup journey.

The Experience

Key activities or support received (mentorship, workshops, introductions, etc.)

One of the most valuable aspects of the programme was the quality of the one-to-one sessions. I had direct access to highly experienced mentors people who had built, exited, or actively worked within the startup and funding landscape. Their insights were honest, relevant, and grounded in real experience. Alongside that, the workshops were practical and engaging, and the introductions to other founders, advisors, and investors helped broaden my perspective and my network.

Milestones achieved during the programme

During the programme, I secured my first global client, which was a huge milestone. I also gained the confidence to take my platform to the next level,  both in terms of ambition and execution. I was able to identify the right people and resources to bring into the business, and for the first time, I felt clear on who to ask and where to go for the right information at the right time.

The Impact

Tangible results (fundraising, partnerships, revenue growth, product launches, user acquisition, etc.)

Since completing the programme, I now have three global clients and  expanded the platform’s reach to employees in 12 different countries. We have launched new services including supporting neurodiverse employees and have created a  ground breaking new leadership and management programme. We are also starting to generate consistent revenue through early-stage partnerships and offering services to our coaching pool. .

Intangible outcomes (skills gained, network expansion, clarity on business model)

One of the biggest intangible benefits was clarity. I refined my value proposition, strengthened the business model, and learned how to communicate it effectively. The programme also helped me build a strong network of peers and advisors, which continues to be a source of support. I’ve developed greater resilience and confidence as a founder, and now approach challenges with a more strategic and informed mindset.

Founder Testimonial

As a non-tech tech founder, this accelerator was transformational. The exposure and confidence I gained directly contributed to raising the platform’s profile and validating the business model with real clients. I left the programme with not just momentum, but respect,  as someone now seen as credible in the tech and startup space. That shift has opened new doors, and I’m now in a position to give back and support other founders on their journey. Without the support of the Exchange and its team, I genuinely don’t think I’d have made the same progress, their belief and guidance made all the difference.

Where They are Now

The platform is now in a growth phase, with increasing traction and a steadily expanding client base. I’m currently in active discussions with industry-specific investors and exploring the next stage of scalable activity. I’ve started building a strong team around me to support that scale, bringing in the right expertise to strengthen operations and delivery.

Importantly, I’ve also had the opportunity to stay involved as Coach in Residence for The Exchange Programme,  a full-circle moment that reflects both the credibility my business has gained and my commitment to supporting other founders as they grow.