When Gavin Helinski launched the innovative startup HAH UK Group, he structured the company around two core divisions: HAH Protect, specialising in cutting-edge biometric technology and HAH Software, focused on advanced solutions for simulation and cloud-based high-performance computing (HPC).
While he knew starting a software and consulting business would come with its challenges, what he didn’t anticipate was just how transformative the support from the Hampshire Growth Hub would be in shaping the company’s early success.
Founded in January 2025, HAH UK Group is still in its early stages but it’s already gaining momentum. With over 24 years of experience in technology sales, specialising in Software as a Service (SaaS) and other services, Gavin brought deep industry knowledge to the table. Yet, like many entrepreneurs, he found that navigating the startup landscape came with its own set of challenges.
“Starting a business is exciting – but let’s be honest, it can also be overwhelming,” Gavin reflected. “With so many options, opinions, and unknowns, finding reliable support and guidance often feels like searching for a needle in a haystack.”
That’s where the Hampshire Growth Hub stepped in.
“Working with the Growth Hub gave me access to the kind of strategic support and practical advice that every startup needs but rarely knows where to find,” Gavin said. “Their resources helped me clarify my goals, refine my business model, and build momentum in the critical early stages.”
Gavin first connected with the Hampshire Growth Hub through its free Business Growth Accelerator programme, held in early 2025 at BizSpace Basingstoke. Following the one-and-a-half-day workshop, he was paired with Senior Growth Champion Andy Swift, whose business experience and mentorship proved invaluable.
“Andy was instrumental in helping me navigate the challenges of launching the business,” Gavin explained. “His guidance gave me confidence, saved me from a few common pitfalls and helped me make decisions with a clearer focus on our longer-term growth.”
Over the course of 12 hours of personalised one-to-one support, Andy helped Gavin sharpen his strategy and identify further opportunities for development. One key recommendation was to enrol in the Help to Grow: Management programme at the University of Winchester – a 12-week executive development course often described as a mini MBA for SME leaders.
Having finished the course, Gavin said: "The course was an incredibly valuable experience. I genuinely enjoyed learning alongside other business leaders, gaining practical tools and fresh perspectives that I could immediately apply to my software business. Each module was delivered by excellent and highly knowledgeable professionals with real-world expertise, which made the content not only engaging but highly relevant. It gave me the structure and confidence to grow both as a leader and an entrepreneur."
Chris Burchell, Strategic Growth Manager leading the Hampshire Growth Hub, said: “We’re passionate about supporting ambitious and innovative businesses like HAH UK Group turn vision into action.
“Our tailored support programmes are designed to equip entrepreneurs with the clarity, confidence and strategic insight they need to build strong foundations and accelerate their growth.
“Gavin’s experience highlights how timely, expert guidance can make a real difference in those crucial early stages.”