The Nolii Story: Why and How I Started a Design-Driven Hardware Tech Company

We’re only months away from launching Nolii into the world, and I want to share my experiences with you

In 2017 I founded Nolii — a British hardware tech brand dedicated to designing beautiful, intuitive products which empower people to do more.

We are now on the home straight, with Nolii’s launch currently planned for the end of Q1 2019. Those of you have been following along know that it hasn’t been an easy journey!

I’d like to think I’m a pretty experienced entrepreneur, having started and run multiple businesses over the last 10 years, but my journey with Nolii has been like a mini MBA in hardware technology and business.

We’ve learned a hell of a lot along the way, from turning concepts into designs, designing for manufacture, working with designers, negotiating deals, developing packaging, sales & marketing, raising investment & much more.

And one thing I’ve noticed along the way is the striking lack of resources available to people who want to start hardware businesses. I can’t help but wonder how much trial and error, and how much money (!), could have been spared if I had had somewhere to turn for answers when the going got tough.

So I’ve decided to share my mistakes, experiences and knowledge with you in the hope that it might help you to take the leap and make your dreams a reality.

The things I’ve learned apply to anyone manufacturing physical products, but will also ring to true for those striving to build any innovative business with world class products.

My aim is to provide you with real detailed insights — the what, why and how of Nolii. If this helps people learn from some of our mistakes then this will have succeeded in its purpose.

Community is important to us, and I’d love to see this series inspire creatives, designers, entrepreneurs and others to share their thoughts and experiences in life and in work. So please recommend this blog to like-minded people and leave your comments and questions below!