‍Insights from Michelle Atkinson, Co-founder& COO of Apollo Cloud

On 5 June 2025, Michelle Atkinson appeared on the FUNDED:Brilliant Entrepreneurs and Founders podcast to share how Apollo Cloud has grown from startup to scale-up. In just two years, the company has tripled its turnover and secured around 80 clients, including a multinational worth several billion pounds.

Why Apollo Cloud?

Michelle and her co-founder chose the name 'Apollo' as a nod to NASA's legendary space missions. It reflects their big ambitions and future-facing mindset. The inspiration became even more real for Michelle after a visit to Cape Canaveral.

Omnichannel Comms with a Human Focus

Apollo Cloud specialises in omnichannel telephony and communications, working with clients across professional services, logistics,education and more. What sets them apart is their focus on service and genuine human connection. Michelle is clear that customers are tired of automated bots and poor service. As she puts it, "We want to put the 'special' back into 'specialist'."

Built on Trust and Standards

In their first nine months, Apollo secured ISO 27001 and ISO9001 certifications. This early focus on quality and security helped them quickly build credibility, especially in sectors like education where trust is essential.

Fuel for Growth

The business was initially self-funded by Michelle and her co-founder. However, a key turning point came with a six-figure investment from the Business Enterprise Fund (BEF). This funding gave Apollo the breathing space to grow and scale at pace, while staying true to its values.

Giving Back: Sustainability and Community

Apollo is committed to making a difference. They support local schools in North Yorkshire, plant trees as part of their sustainability goals, and donate £10,000 annually to Candlelighters, a Yorkshire charity supporting families affected by childhood cancer.

Smart Hiring and Future Plans

Michelle credits much of their success to carefully chosen team members and a focus on quality over quantity. Looking ahead, acquisitions may be on the cards to further strengthen their offer. Apollo has already been recognised as Fast-Growth Business of the Year at the 2024 Connect Yorkshire awards.

✏️ What Other Founders Can Learn

Names Matter

A name like Apollo gives you an instantly memorable story that aligns with your ambition.

Put People First

In an increasingly digital world, good old-fashioned service is still a winning strategy.

Quality Brings Trust

Getting certified early on can set you apart and open doors in competitive sectors.

The Right Funding Makes a Difference

Mission-aligned investors like BEF help you grow without compromising your values.

Community Is Powerful

Supporting schools and charities builds strong local roots and a positive reputation.

Awards Boost Visibility

Recognition like the Connect Yorkshire award reinforces your credibility and motivates your team.

🎧 Listen In

The full 34-minute episode is available now on ApplePodcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music or via the Business Enterprise Fund’s website.

Listen here

‍Michelle’s story is a fantastic example of building a fast-growing tech business without losing sight of people, purpose or planet. For any founder wanting to scale with heart, this episode is well worth a listen.

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