Meet our Space for Change Winners

We are thrilled to support and celebrate the achievements of forward-thinking businesses through our Space for Change competition.

Three organisations have been granted honorary DL/ Memberships for one year, which includes complimentary access to our DL/ Lounges. We met the winners, Foundation for Change (FfC), Disruptor London and Materials Assemble at our Lounges to find out what sets them apart, their aspirations and what they’re most looking forward to over the next year.

Foundation for Change

What inspired you to enter the Space for Change competition?

Having previously been a recipient of the Derwent London Community Fund, we decided to apply for the Space for Change competition, and the opportunity came at an ideal time for us. We're at a pivotal time of growth within the team and organisation, and have a need for extra space to meet the increasing demands for our courses and our work. We are excited about how access to the Lounges will enhance our operations, which are essential to the support we provide to people in recovery from using substances.

What impact do you hope to make over the next 12 months?

As we celebrate our 10th birthday this year, we aim to use this opportunity to both celebrate and raise awareness of our unique approach to recovery. Our educational courses support individuals completing substance use treatment, focusing on their transition between leaving services and entering society, fostering long-term recovery. We are also planning for our own future, and how we can reach more people in recovery, as well as extend our approach to support those transitioning from other sectors, such as those leaving prison, mental health or homelessness services. We are very proud to work in these transitional stages, and know how crucial it is to see the entirety of a journey, and not just part of it, if we want to truly achieve long-term and sustainable change.

Disruptor London

How does it feel to be one of the winners of the Space for Change competition?

Winning the Derwent London Space for Change 40th anniversary prize feels absolutely incredible! We are deeply honoured and thrilled to receive this recognition. For a small business like ours, it’s a powerful validation of the hard work and innovation we've dedicated to our mission. This prize not only boosts our confidence but also highlights how Derwent London’s commitment to providing valuable workspace resources and integrating startups into their vibrant community can truly empower and accelerate new ventures.

What are the key elements of your product that you believe set it apart?

At Disruptor London, our products stand out due to their unique combination of innovative formulation and user-centric design. We focus on addressing real-world challenges like overconsumption, plastic pollution, and water scarcity impacting the beauty industry with practical, scalable solutions that are both efficient and sustainable. Our mission is ‘do more with less,’ so we formulate and produce products that are multipurpose, setting us apart in a competitive market.

Materials Assemble

How did you find the application process? Were there any challenges you had to overcome to apply?

The application process was smooth and well-conceived. We found it easy to navigate each step, thanks to the clear instructions and support provided. One aspect we particularly appreciated was how Derwent offers robust support to small businesses through the Space for Change initiative, ensuring winners have the necessary resources to advance their business.

What are your next steps now that you are an honorary Derwent London Member?

"The spaces available through the Space for Change initiative are incredible. Our next steps include immersing ourselves in the vibrant community that Derwent has built. We also plan to utilise the meeting rooms to organise sustainable material presentations and lectures, fostering collaboration and growth within both the community and the broader design industry."

We are proud to support these innovative companies and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make in the coming months. Congratulations to Foundation for Change, Disruptor London, and Materials Assemble on their well-deserved recognition!