Empowering The Next Generation of Young London Business Founders with Support from London Freemasons

Parachute
Regiment
Lodge
9315

WHAT IS FREEMASONRY?

One of the oldest secular social and charitable organisations in the world, modern Freemasonry’s roots lie in the traditions of the medieval stonemasons who built our castles and cathedrals…

The lodge has held several social events such as witnessing the Tower of London Keys ceremony a lady’s festival at a hotel usually outside of London that provides opportunity for our families to enjoy the company that these types of events provide. Importantly we maintain links with the regiment and serving soldiers.

EVENTS

Delve into the rich traditions of Freemasonry as we gather to celebrate our shared values and principles

WHERE WE MEET

Our meetings are held on the 1st Saturday of March, June, September and December, at 60 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5AZ. they usually start at 11am thus providing members ample time to travel to London to join the meetings. The June meeting is the installation meeting.

ABOUT

The Parachute Regiment Lodge was consecrated on 5th June 1989. Though named for our Regiment the decision was taken not to restrict membership to serving or former members, though the majority do fit that criteria. Our membership is drawn from a wide range of military, security and civilian backgrounds who all adopt our ethos, to be the best in all that we do…

ARENA

Engage in enlightening discussions, partake in meaningful rituals, and forge lasting connections with fellow brethren

A generous £10,0000 grant from London Freemasons will support Launch IT's flagship hub in Edmonton, Angel Yard, by funding the vital role of a dedicated Enterprise Manager.

The Enterprise Manager is key to the hub’s success, managing day-to-day operations and serving as a consistent source of one-to-one guidance, mentorship, and practical support for young entrepreneurs. This role is instrumental in helping early-stage founders navigate the challenges of launching and growing their businesses, ensuring they have access to the advice, resources, and encouragement needed to succeed. The funding received is crucial in maintaining the high level of support that makes Angel Yard a thriving centre for youth enterprise.

The charity strategically establishes centres in areas where we can make the greatest local impact, creating hubs of entrepreneurial activity. Each centre is deeply embedded in the community, supported by local trustees who bring passion, expertise, and connections. These centres contribute to the local economy by generating jobs, fostering new businesses, and encouraging local spending.

Since inception, Launch IT has supported over 12,000 young people. In 2023, 88% of participants in our incubation programme achieved a positive outcome. All participants at the intensive level reported improved business skills, 75% credited the programme with helping develop key entrepreneurial competencies, and 69% experienced increased confidence. Launch It continues to refine its services to respond effectively to the needs of young entrepreneurs, building meaningful partnerships and lasting community impact. In a recent report for one of the Launch IT centres, the charity found that the total social value generated amounts to £6.75 per £1 donated.

Launch IT is a group of UK-based charities dedicated to empowering young entrepreneurs aged 18–30. Our mission is to empower the next generation of business founders from diverse backgrounds and underserved communities by providing affordable workspaces, tailored training, one-on-one mentoring, access to funding and other opportunities to meet both business and personal development needs. Launch It's core offering is a two-year incubation programme, guiding aspiring entrepreneurs through every stage of starting and growing their own ventures.

In total, over 12,000 of the young people we have worked with have gone on to start a business.

Pat Shelley, CEO, Launch IT said: “We’re incredibly grateful to London Freemasons for their generous support. This funding ensures that the young founders we support at Angel Yard continue to receive dedicated expert guidance and hands-on support as they build and grow their businesses. With this backing, we can keep empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs to break barriers and succeed.”

Paul King, London Freemasons said: “The work that Launch IT is doing to support business founders and entrepreneurs within our community is fantastic and we are really excited to be able to support their work. The level of social value and the gains made from every pound donated are impressive”