Promise Bears Ltd is a unique e-commerce business creating bespoke teddy bears with a mission to spread the Christian gospel and offer comfort to those going through challenging times. Each 40 cm bear wears a T-shirt featuring faith-based messages, making them a meaningful gift for people of all ages, from parents and grandparents to young adults. Although based in Wollaton, Nottingham, Promise Bears sells nationwide and attends events across the country.
As a new business, founder Jan Mace sought guidance from NBV Adviser Godfrey Anderson to help her navigate the early stages of growth. NBV’s support was instrumental in helping Promise Bears identify key ways to improve efficiency, marketing, and customer engagement. With practical advice on leveraging technology and streamlining processes, Jan introduced new systems, including AI tools for marketing and workflow and implemented more effective approaches to selling at events.
This guidance helped Promise Bears become more productive and professional, improving both online and face-to-face customer interactions. It also positioned the business to reach new audiences, explore sponsorship opportunities with charities, and plan future expansion of its product range.
Building on this progress, Promise Bears has now launched a partnership programme and is currently running a Christmas giving campaign to gift 100 Promise Bears to local children’s charities. The business is already partnering with The Brook Church and Community Centre in Mansfield, with further discussions underway with Safe Families in Nottingham, alongside outreach to additional local charities.
The giving fund, launched on Collectiv, has already raised £400 towards the £2,200 goal needed by 17th December, a strong start that reflects the community’s enthusiasm and support. The wider partnership programme is set to expand further in January 2026, strengthening the business’s charitable impact and community presence.
Looking ahead, Promise Bears aims to increase its visibility across social media platforms, grow its email list, expand its bear range and merchandise, and continue building long-term partnerships with Christian charities and community organisations. With NBV’s ongoing support, Jan is confident the business will continue growing sustainably while making a meaningful difference to customers and the wider community.
“NBV’s guidance has been invaluable in helping me build a solid foundation for Promise Bears. Their support has given me the tools and confidence to grow efficiently and reach more people with our mission.” Jan Mace, Promise Bears Ltd
Website: www.promisebears.co.uk
This project was supported by NBV Enterprise Solutions and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.