Harley Lloyd-Cooksley

Introduction

Sometimes starting a business is the only way to earn a little money when we’re not old enough to be employed by someone-else. This is what happened with Harley when he realised at 11 years of age, he couldn’t even do a local paper round. He’s tried a few business ideas since then, but has settled for now on an online business that’s making money and he’s really enjoying. Read on to learn all about Harley’s business and what inspires and motivates him to keep it going alongside his school studies.

Why did you decide to start a business while still at school?

Harley wanted to have a job since he was 11 years old, to bring in some money for himself, and a much bigger goal of earning enough to help his parents retire! He wasn’t old enough for even a paper round, so started his own car washing business (which still runs today) and also tried earning from affiliate schemes. In February 2025, he started his own online business buying products wholesale and selling them on his website using a ‘dropshipping’ model (this is where the wholesaler sends out the orders so Harley doesn’t hold on to any stock and he receives the money from each sale less the wholesale cost). This has been going well, and he’s really enjoying discovering trending products and bringing them for sale on his site.

What support have you received from family or others when starting out?

Most of the support he’s had in running the business has come from online communities –connecting with and taking advice from people who are already doing that kind of thing. You do have to be careful about which you use and what is said, but he posted up his web site recently to get some feedback on how it could be improved, and found that really helpful. Moral support comes firmly from his family and friends, who encourage him to keep going. Being disciplined and focused on what he’s doing is important to keep up his motivation levels.

What plans do you have for the future?

Harley plans to continue developing the website and expanding the range of products on offer through the ‘dropshipping’ model. He has grown the business so far through organic growth (posting reels and videos on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok) rather than any ‘paid for’ advertising and says, “You learn a few skills as you go along then apply them to the business”.

What advice would you give to a young person thinking of starting a business while still at school?

In Harley’s mind, there are no get-rich-quick schemes, but to become rich he feels you need multiple incomes. This means getting started, being disciplined about what you do, and taking inspiration from others.

“Just start, because if you start you can find out how much time you can give to the business.”

“Be inspired by other people – one of my friends has his own business doing ‘dropshipping’ and inspired me to start mine.”

Closing paragraph: 

Many young people dream of starting a business, but most don’t do anything about it. Harley has been inspired by others and discovered opportunities of his own and decided to go for it! His focus and discipline is amazing, and his ability to adapt the business according to trends is really impressive. We wish Harley every success in achieving all his goals!