Footie fans score a win with fan-art business

Posted on 12 December 2024 • Business, Student stories, University news

Celebrations are in order for student Becca and business partner Jade after landing a contract to supply a bold and vibrant range of merchandise for Arsenal Women’s team.

The range – which includes cups, apparel and other eye-catching accessories – is officially licensed by Arsenal Football Club and will be available to fans.

The businesswomen netted the deal thanks to a combination of the OU’s Open Business Creators  programme and their work being talent spotted.

The future is now looking bright not only for the women’s game, but also for the duo’s company, AFTA Studios, based in the West Midlands.

Gap in the market

Undergraduate Becca Harvey is studying an Open University degree in Design and Innovation and admits to being a lifelong football fan, as well as a born artist:

“My interest in women’s football really took off during the 2022 UEFA Women’s Euros. The experience of witnessing the team’s victory represented a significant step forward for women’s football and its representation in the sports world.”

Fellow football lover and business partner Jade brings a musical background to the company table as well as her design skills. Together the pair began creating impactful and visually engaging compositions. They identified a substantial gap in the market related to women’s football and focused on creating unique art and merchandise that celebrate women in sports using vibrant cartoons, compelling storytelling, and unique video content.

Thanks to Becca’s student connection with the OU they learned about the Open Business Creators (OBC) programme, a scheme open to anyone across the UK who is interested in learning about business creation and can support people from the first steps in considering entrepreneurship through to the growth of a company.

Moving up a league

Both women felt they could benefit from industry advice and expertise and financial support to grow to the next level. Meanwhile, their creative ingenuity caught the eye of Mags Byrne, one of a team of Entrepreneurs in Residence whose advice is available to support participants of the OBC.

It was at this point that things moved up a league for the business.

Mags, an experienced entrepreneur with a background in senior leadership roles in law and sports, was immediately impressed by AFTA Studios’ work.

“I think their creativity really jumps out. Their designs are brilliant,” said Mags.

Alongside expert legal guidance, Mags used her connections and credibility within football to set up meetings for AFTA Studios, prepare them for corporate-level discussions and also encouraged them to explore opportunities.

Becca said:

“Mags has become an invaluable mentor to us, generously offering her time and expertise to help us elevate our business. Her guidance has been crucial in facilitating our discussions with Arsenal and other partners for potential collaboration opportunities.”

AFTA Studios entered meetings with Arsenal Football Club and agreed a deal to produce a bold and vibrant range of officially licensed merchandise dedicated to Arsenal Women. Fans can look forward to an exciting range of new products, including apparel and accessories.

Becca and Jade hope to take their success for Arsenal Woman and expand their business further with more personnel and more contracts.

Becca says:

“The course is instrumental in equipping me with essential skills for managing the business aspects of our art venture. While Jade typically handles the business logistics, the course is helping me develop a stronger understanding of this side of the business. It encourages creative and innovative thinking, which is crucial for our growth and success.“

Read more on this story and find out about the Open Business Creators programme here

PHOTO: Becca Harvey (l) and Jade Stanger (r)