A Leeds-based entrepreneur is expanding an online learning community designed to help small business owners and freelancers navigate the increasingly complex world of digital marketing without the jargon, pressure, or high costs often associated with professional training.

Founded by Rebecca Hopwood, the founder of Youbee Media, The Hive Academy has grown steadily since launching less than six months ago, becoming a practical, peer-supported toolkit for startups and scaling businesses across the UK.

The Academy brings together on-demand training, expert insight and community support in one place, responding to a growing challenge faced by small firms: information overload driven by social media, AI tools and conflicting business advice.