Inormas Media refused to be held back by the lack of investment funding caused by the credit crunch.  Instead they refocused the business model for their social media enterprise on generating their own revenue. Read more about their success story.

Entrepreneurs Calum Brannan and James Leavesley first met through AWM-funded  Connect Midlands; a networking project that supports technology and high growth companies in achieving investment. “We were introduced as we’d both worked in social media. My commercial experience complemented Calum’s technical skills perfectly,” explains James.

As partners they had planned to raise funding for their social networking aggregator website Youmeo – which allows users to update sites like Facebook and Twitter from one place - but were faced with a brick wall as the UK went into recession.  The pair decided to make use of the technology that they’d already developed for Youmeo to generate income.

Earlier this year, Inormas Media was established with the purpose of building bespoke online communities or ‘social networks’ for public, social and commercial organisations such as media companies, sporting clubs, alumni bodies and corporate firms. The networks provide a platform for interaction, education and discussion. Inormas’ customer list already boasts Aga Rangemaster and the LighterLife Weight Loss programme.

One of their recent success stories is working for a West Midlands-based charity, Christian Vision.  Inormas has created a platform for delivering live streaming and on-demand content to an online community of over 500,000.  “We’ve literally changed the way they communicate and interact with their audience.  It used to be through radio stations and is now through a single website.”

Both Calum and James were raised in the West Midlands.  After spending time away they’re happy to be based back in Coventry where they manage a team of eight people.  “We can offer the same service as a London-based firm but with lower-operating costs.  There are great transport links to the rest of the UK and Europe, and we can still be in London in just over an hour,” explains James.

Inormas believe their success stems from believing in their vision, not giving up when times got tough and a mutually respectful working partnership. Aged just 20, Calum is no stranger to business.  At 15, he set up his first company, PPLparty.com, which attracted over 350,000 users with no marketing budget.  He is also proud to be named youngest ever ‘Director of the Month’ by the IOD’s Director Magazine.

Both Directors of Inormas are involved in helping other young entrepreneurs get started in business.  As well as spending time in local schools and universities, Calum is an ambassador for the Make Your Mark in Coventry campaign.
 
James and Calum plan to continue growing Inormas Media. “There’s enormous scope for Social Networking.  Companies are just beginning to appreciate the advantages they can offer in building and establishing customer relationships,” says James.  Youmeo is also still a part of their long-term vision. “We are steadily building user numbers and believe that we’ll attract investors in the long term,” comments Calum.

For further information, contact Inormas Media
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