Dedication - and a business plan - is what you need

Russell Smith profiles a small business with a big challenge

Dominique Oliver, 26, set up Resource Productions in 2000 and is based at the Slough Enterprise Hub at Thames Valley University

Dominique Oliver, 26, set up Resource Productions in 2000 and is based at the Slough Enterprise Hub at Thames Valley University

"I have three passions", says Dominique Oliver, "the oral history of cultural heritage, video production and community work. My challenge has been to build a business from these passions rather than from financial aspirations." Her business, Resource Productions, works with voluntary groups helping to source funds for, and produce, short dramas and documentaries. The list of credits is impressive: in 2001 a BBC Skillset award, in 2002 a Film Council award for "Best film made by under 11s" and, in 2003, a local award for Women in the Arts.

After working as a volunteer researcher with BBC education while still a student, she went to work for Brechin Productions as a runner. Next was a contract as curatorial assistant at Slough Museum. But her breakthrough came when she was awarded funding to set up Active Archive, a voluntary organisation that allows people to video-record their memories.

Dominique's route to self-employment is a text-book case of seizing opportunities - the keyword being networking. And she's done it while following a rule of "beg, don't borrow" so that her business doesn't owe a penny. "I think it's important that the idea of setting up a business be seen as achievable on a zero budget," says Dominique, "but you must be prepared to knock on lots of doors." Luckily, Dominique has the necessary determination; after an ankle injury in 2000 she chose to walk everywhere on crutches, with cameras and tripods strapped to her back, instead of running up taxi fares.

Ann Johnstone, director of the Slough Enterprise Hub where Dominique is based, says that the Hub is the perfect place for Dominique and people like her to grow their business. "The Hub concentrates on supporting new media and creative businesses. We understand that these businesses don't necessarily fit the standard business model. We also stimulate networking opportunities." So, with business booming, just how big is the network that Dominique has created? Well put it this way - her new mobile phone can't cope with her contact list.

Resource Productions: 01753 553374