Our Journey

Geminus Innovation was formed in 2016 by Richard Harrison and Nick Roach to help businesses grow by thinking differently. Richard and Nick had spent a career in business and innovation support, and recognised that Innovation was the key to provide growth and scalability whist addressing any emerging commercial threats.

In 2019, Geminus Innovation was approved by the Home Office as an Endorsing Body for the Start-up and Innovator Visa routes. Innovator International was created as a brand to help innovative international founders.

In 2023, the Home Office launched the revised Innovator Founder Visa, reducing the number of private sector endorsing bodies to 3. Geminus Innovation was successful in being selected to continue to deliver Endorsements under the new programme.

In 2025, the vision for the UK Growth Accelerator was launched, creating a wider community of international entrepreneurs, businesses, investors and academic partners who wish to extend their UK interests.

Our Services

Business is about doing things together, learning from and supporting each other on incredible journeys. We provide support across many sectors, helping to build thriving businesses.

We offer a wide range of services to businesses, entrepreneurs and individuals seeking to expand their commercial interests in the UK. This ranges from the provision of endorsements for the Innovator Founder Visa route through to business support, business representation and investment support.

Meet The Team

Nick Roach
Nick, Co-founder of Innovator International, is an expert in business consultancy with a proven track record of delivering high-value contracts. His strategic insights and expertise in managing complex projects play a crucial role in guiding our clients and shaping our vision.
Nick Roach - Director
Richard Harrison
Richard, Co-founder of Innovator International, combines his extensive experience in innovation and engineering with a deep passion for entrepreneurial growth. His expertise shapes our strategic direction and supports our mission to drive impactful advancements in the business and technology sectors.
Richard Harrison - Director
Karen Hockenhull
Karen is our client relations manager; she works closely with our community of international entrepreneurs and offers business coaching; she is a serial entrepreneur and has worked on a number of large projects in the UK.
Karen Hockenhull - Client Relations
James Roach
As Operational Lead at Innovator International, James ensures that systems, processes, and people are aligned to keep things running smoothly. He works closely with the team to solve problems, streamline workflows, and support day-to-day delivery.
James Roach - Operations Lead
Ali Beynon
Ali is one of our incredible Business Coaches. Having spent years managing large teams at the operational end of the business, Ali stepped into a training and coaching role, looking to help others achieve their potential.
Ali Beynon - Business Coach
Kathryn Porteous
Kathryn is one of our exceptional business coaches and has extensive experience in developing national programs and managing large projects across the UK. Specialising in customer engagement, operations, and sales training, she is committed to supporting international entrepreneurs throughout their business journey.
Kathryn Porteous - Business Coach
Keith Atkins
Keith is one of our experienced business consultants, specialising in EdTech, innovation, and leadership. He has a wealth of experience guiding organisations toward growth and success through strategic insights and innovative solutions.
Kieth Atkins - Edutech Expert
Stephen Allen
Stephen is a consultant at Innovator International, bringing a wealth of experience from healthcare, engineering, and entrepreneurship. With a strong background in operations and business strategy, he supports founders in navigating the practical challenges of growth and innovation.
Stephen Allen - Operational Expert
Sarah Brennan
Sarah is a business support expert and funding specialist with extensive experience in helping entrepreneurs secure resources and grow their ventures. Sarah offers an array of expertise, from strategic planning to financial management and accessing funding opportunities.
Sarah Brennan - Funding Expert
Craig Hines
Craig is one of our expert assessors, specialising in managing applications for the Innovator Founder Visa. He has a diverse background, having worked across various sectors including the creative industry, travel industry, consultancy, and technology.
Craig Hines - Creative Expert