Agency’s neurodiverse-friendly innovation receives praise

Creative Stripes, a marketing agency based in Hemel Hempstead, has been honoured with a Judge’s Commendation and grant as part of Heathrow Airport’s World of Opportunity programme. The award recognises Creative Stripes’ innovative Mapper Cards – affordable, visual planning aids designed to support neurodiverse thinkers.

The Mapper Cards, created by company founder Lydia Berman, are inspired by her personal experience with dyslexia. Berman recognised that many people, especially those with dyslexia or other forms of neurodiversity, process information more easily when it is visual and hands-on. Designed to help business owners plan everything from marketing strategies to social media campaigns, the cards offer a tangible alternative to purely digital tools.

Creative Stripes was one of 12 small businesses selected from across the UK to receive a £2,000 cash grant as part of Heathrow’s World of Opportunity programme. Alongside the funding, each winner will benefit from expert guidance on selling their products and services overseas. The programme, supported by the Department for Business and Trade, also provides coaching and trade missions to help businesses access new international markets.

Nigel Milton, Heathrow’s Chief Communications and Sustainability Officer, congratulated all the winners. “We have so much ambition and quality among small businesses in the UK,” Milton said.

“There is a world of opportunity for SMEs to tap into through Heathrow’s unrivalled network and we’re proud to play our part in helping UK businesses grow through trade.”

Business and Trade Minister Gareth Thomas also highlighted the significance of the initiative. “Helping more small businesses across the UK to export is a key priority,” Thomas noted. “Heathrow’s World of Opportunity programme aligns perfectly with our commitment to removing barriers to international trade for SMEs. These grants will help promising companies access global markets and showcase British innovation worldwide.”

Jake Uko, East of England Regional Chair of the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), praised Creative Stripes and the other winners. “Exporting means growth. We know that trading overseas opens the door to new customers and new opportunities, and those who export are more resilient during tough times. With the right backing, more small businesses can take that leap into global trade – and it’s fantastic to see companies like Creative Stripes leading the way.”

Reflecting on the award, Berman expressed her gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. “It’s incredible to have our Mapper Cards recognised by such a prestigious programme,” she said. “When working with small businesses and start-ups through my mentoring and workshops, I noticed many people struggled with traditional learning tools. That inspired me to create affordable, hands-on marketing solutions. Mapper Cards fit seamlessly into Creative Stripes’ workshops and mentoring sessions – they offer a different, more inclusive way of learning that really resonates with people.”