Three brothers have launched a new Manchester barbershop, based in Blackley, after securing a £20,000 Start Up Loan through GC Business Finance, delivered on behalf of the British Business Bank.
Michael, Moses and Matthew Giwa, Changed Studios is the result of a lifelong ambition to build something of their own.
Michael first began barbering while studying at university in Manchester, working at the well-known Smokey Barbers on Market Street. Inspired by their father, who also ran a barbershop, Michael and his younger brother Matthew both honed their skills as barbers, while their older brother Moses brought expertise in IT, software engineering, and property. Together, they have combined their skills and experience to launch Changed Studios.
Now open, the barbershop offers barbering and hairstyling services, with a strong emphasis on building confidence and creating meaningful connections with clients. Taking inspiration from 90s culture, the salon has a nostalgic, artistic atmosphere that reflects its ethos: changing appearance, boosting confidence and creating a space where people of all ages can feel at home.
To help the brothers realise their ambition of setting up shop on their own, they worked with the team at GCBF to secure a Start Up Loan. The £20,000 loan supported the acquisition and renovation of the salon, along with the purchase of barbering stations, signage and equipment.
With the barbershop now up and running, the brothers are already planning for growth. Phase two of their expansion will introduce additional services such as nails and eyebrow treatments, ensuring the space is inclusive for both men and women. Longer term, they hope to grow the team and expand to multiple sites across Greater Manchester.
Michael Giwa, Co-founder of Changed Studios, said:
“Changed Studios is about more than just haircuts. We wanted to create a place where people feel good about themselves, where they connect and where they leave with more confidence than when they walked in. The support from the GCBF team really helped us on this journey, providing us with a smooth process and practical advice. The help of the Start Up Loans programme ultimately gave us the leg up we needed to turn our vision into reality, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.”
Alex Mearns, Head of Start Up Lending at GC Business Finance, said: “Michael, Moses, and Matthew’s journey is a brilliant example of how entrepreneurial spirit, family heritage and determination can come together to create a vibrant new business. It’s great to see them carrying on the legacy of their dad, bringing the skills they learnt to create a new community hub in Blackley. With the help of our underwriter, Melanie Tsang, the Start Up Loans programme is ensuring these ambitious founders can start up and grow their own business.”
