Evolve

What do business leaders really get from being part of a Peer Group?

It's not just advice.

It's the space to step back and think clearly. It's fresh perspectives when you're stuck. It's accountability when you need it.

And sometimes, it's simply knowing you're not facing challenges alone.

Don't just take our word for it. Here's what some of our Peer Group members have to say. Swipe through to hear their experiences 👇

What happens when business owners step back and learn from each other?

This short video shares insight from the Business Growth Dorset Group programme and the value of peer support, fresh perspective and honest conversation when growing a business.

Featuring:

David Mutton, Evolve
Rohan Byles, Compass Contracting & Employment
Sophie Godfrey, Studio Wood
Eytan Krips, Hotel Collingwood

The programme was conceived by Shelley Collins-Trevett at Business Growth Dorset and designed and delivered by Evolve.

🎥 Watch now

🔗👇

Most start up mistakes are completely avoidable. The problem is most people only spot them after they’ve made them 👀

In his latest blog, David shares practical ways to help founders save time, money and a lot of frustration.

If you’re starting a business or thinking about it, this is well worth a read.

Link in comments 👇

What do investors really look for in a pitch?

At our Perfect the Pitch event back in February, we brought together founders, investors and advisors to share honest, practical insight into securing funding, from first pitches to future rounds.

We covered:
• What investors are really looking for
• Common pitching mistakes
• How to tell your story with clarity and impact
• Practical ways to strengthen your approach

If you’re thinking about raising investment, this is well worth a watch.

🎥 Watch the full panel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ll9Dzs3QKkE&t=5s

Following on from David Mutton’s story about becoming a manager without training…

There’s a moment most new managers recognise. When you realise the job has changed - but no one has really explained how.

It’s not just about doing the work anymore, it’s about:

➡ Having conversations you’d rather avoid
➡ Managing people you used to work alongside
➡ Balancing your workload with leading others
➡ Making decisions that affect more than just you

And often, working it out as you go.

That’s where many ‘accidental’ managers find themselves. Not lacking ability, but without the structure and support.

David explains more about this in his latest blog 👇

https://evolveadvisory.co.uk/how-i-became-an-accidental-manager-and-what-i-wish-id-known/

We’ll be at the Dorset Chamber Business Expo on 7th May.

If you’re there, come and say hello 👋

Join us for The Power of Community in Business - the official launch of Creator Day ’26.

Hosted here at, Evolve Townhouse in Poole, this session brings together Mark Masters (You Are The Media) and David Mutton (Evolve) for an open, honest conversation about what community really means today and how it can help businesses grow stronger.

It’s all about sharing ideas, building connections and seeing how community can become a genuine part of your business approach.

☕️ Coffee, croissants and great conversation included
🎟 Free to attend | Limited spaces

Book your place 👇

The Power of Community in Business - Evolve Networking is easy. Building a real community is different.

Spring vibes at this morning’s Peer Group 🌼

Mini eggs on the table, daffodils in full bloom AND some seriously good brownies from Poppy Bakes 🍫

Today’s theme? The good, the bad and the mad. Sharing what’s working, what’s challenging, and everything in between.

Follow Poppy on Instagram .... Poppy (17) is raising funds for a volunteer trip to Kenya in 2026, supporting community projects and turning her love of baking into something much bigger.