Cat Nap Inn

Janet Bell, owner of the Cat Nap Inn, gained support through the Department for Enterprise’s Business Start Up scheme to help launch her dream business.

Tell us a little bit about your business journey, when did you set up and what does your business offer?

Karl and I decided to open a cattery on his land in the summer of 2023. By the time we received planning permission and ordered the bespoke pens, it was around Easter 2024 when Karl set to work and built the entire cattery himself. We were ready to open in May but had to wait for an inspection and to be granted our boarding licence. Shortly after receiving it, we officially opened our doors and began taking bookings from June 2024, followed by an open day in early July. We proudly offer a 5-star luxury cattery service.

How has the Enterprise Support Scheme helped your business?

The Enterprise Support Scheme was a huge help — from the insightful training on how to run a business, to the continued mentoring and financial support that enabled us to repay some family loans.

How did you find the experience of receiving support?

Our experience receiving support has been overwhelmingly positive, everyone we have dealt with along the way has been helpful, receptive and always available to answer any enquiries.

Tell us about your business – what do you enjoy most about the work you do?

The business speaks for itself. It  is for Cat boarding where our feline guests experience a little luxury holiday of their own whilst their owners are away.

Why did you choose the Isle of Man as the destination for your business?

The Isle of Man is where we live, but It’s also the perfect place to grow both personally and professionally. The island offers a unique blend of community spirit, natural beauty, and a supportive business environment. Being based here allows us to enjoy the lifestyle and values that matter most to us.

Outside of work, what do you like to do? How do you spend your free time?

Outside of work, I enjoy staying active and creative. I swim regularly, play golf, and take pottery courses at the college. Karl is a talented artist—his work can be seen on the 'Karl Bruders Intricate Art' Facebook page—and he spends his afternoons looking after daughter, Liviana.

How did you hear about the support schemes offered by the Department for Enterprise?

I knew there were various grants available for businesses, so I researched it on the Government website then applied.

Would you recommend the support scheme to other businesses and what would be your top tips for going through the application process?

Overall I would highly recommend the training scheme to anyone who is thinking of setting up a small business. The application process is straightforward, and the short course is both accessible and flexible, with options that can easily fit around work or other commitments.