Swinburne students reach start-up success with That Dapper Chap and Humble Body
In Summary
Melbourne loves start-ups and Swinburne University of Technology’s students are producing some top notch goods.
George Bauer, who is currently studying at Swinburne, and his team of budding entrepreneurs have been busy producing handmade bow ties and pocket squares under the name, That Dapper Chap.
Tim Bennett, along with a number of other Swinburne graduates, have created Humble Body, a hemp based skin care range specialising in gentlemen’s beard care products.
Both George and Tim launched their businesses in 2014 after meeting their respective business partners while studying Swinburne’s Bachelor of Business (Entrepreneurship and Innovation).
“The skills I have learnt through my course have given me confidence to ensure That Dapper Chap runs as smoothly as possible,” Co-Founder and Dapper Director, George Bauer said.
“The major advantage of studying with like-minded people is the networks I’ve forged. From my course I met our graphic designer, fashion designer, financial advisor and three of our stockists.”
George credits social media for That Dapper Chap’s success due to the reach and engagement they have been able to achieve with their customers.
“Without social we wouldn’t be able to move as quickly as we are. November will see That Dapper Chap use social media to assist the fundraising efforts of the Movember Foundation. We’ll be releasing a range of products that will create social media conversations about men’s health. It’s a campaign we are really passionate about,” he said.
Complementing That Dapper Chap’s involvement with Movember is Humble Body’s natural hemp based skin and body care.
Founder Tim Bennett first discovered the benefits of hemp soap while road tripping through America’s midwest.
“Let’s just say the hemp soap was what my beard was calling for! Curiosity got the better of me when I learnt that this soap was just one of the many ways that hemp could be used,” Tim said.
“After countless back shed brainstorm sessions, and many sleepless nights, an idea took shape and Humble Body was born.”
George and Tim give three tips for other people thinking of delving into the world of start-ups:
- Initiative will help you reap rewards – if you have an idea go for it!
- Work hard for something you believe in, then the brand will prosper and speak for itself.
- Surround yourself with people who will add value to your life, steer clear of the drainers.
Visit their Facebook pages at: That Dapper Chap and Humble Body.
Swinburne offers courses across a range of study levels and disciplines. Come to our information evening to learn more. Thursday 27 November, 4-6.30pm, Advanced Technologies Centre, Hawthorn campus.