ABOUT THE TEAM
Meet Dan Ware
For over two decades, Dan Ware has built an impressive career at the intersection of FinTech, AI (dating back to its early machine learning days), Web 2.0 and 3.0, consumer credit, PR, and marketing. During this time, Dan has worked with globally recognised brands such as Stoli, Sacla, Havana Club, The Richmond Group, Anthony Nolan, and Diageo, contributing to their growth and success.
As a prolific entrepreneur, Dan has:
- Founded 11 businesses
- Raised over £60 million in capital
- Supported 16 start-ups and scale-ups
- Created jobs for more than 300 people
A track record of success
Dan’s expertise lies in solving real-world problems with innovative, growth-focused solutions. His approach is guided by data-driven decision-making, adding value, and promoting sustainability. His background in FinTech and consumer credit is particularly notable, having led and scaled businesses that tackled complex challenges in lending and financial services.
One of the standout achievements of his career was leading DJS (UK) Limited, which grew from a small team of three to a thriving company of over 100 employees. Under Dan’s leadership, the business received:
- Two Sunday Times Best Companies 3-Star Awards,
- Two BDO Profit Track 100 recognitions, and
- A valuation of £86 million in just five years—all within the BCP Conurbation.
This success has equipped Dan with invaluable insights into raising capital, building teams, and navigating the intricate startup and regulatory landscapes.
Golden Sands Capital: Empowering Founders
Through Golden Sands Capital, Dan now focuses on empowering founders and start-ups to succeed. His work includes:
- Preparing businesses for capital raises,
- Connecting them with the right investors,
- Guiding them through challenges, and
- Helping them scale effectively.
Having collaborated with HNWs, family offices, VCs, and private equity investors, Dan provides comprehensive support, from pitch preparation to operational optimisation.
Our Awards
A Vision for BCP’s Innovation Ecosystem
Growing up in Poole, Dan has always believed in the potential of the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) region as a hub for business, creativity, and innovation. With its talented workforce and ambitious businesses, Dan envisions BCP as a rival to tech hubs like London, Bristol, and Brighton.
To realise this vision, Dan has spearheaded The Spark, a groundbreaking initiative designed to:
- Unite entrepreneurs, creatives, and innovators,
- Foster collaboration and growth, and
- Position BCP as a global destination for tech-driven ventures.
The Spark: A Catalyst for Innovation
The Spark is not just a co-working space, it’s an ecosystem where start-ups are nurtured and empowered. Leveraging Dan’s extensive experience, The Spark provides:
- Mentorship,
- Networking opportunities,
- Access to funding, and
- Tailored support for scaling businesses.
Dan sees The Spark as a platform for game-changing ideas, driving economic growth in the region. With a focus on emerging technologies such as FinTech and AI, The Spark aims to establish BCP as a competitive player on the global stage.
Building a Thriving Future for BCP
Dan’s commitment extends beyond business, he is passionate about creating an innovation-driven ecosystem that fosters community engagement and collaboration. Through The Spark and its potential rollout across the UK Foundry Network, Dan aims to transform BCP into a world-class innovation hub.
By uniting local entrepreneurs, investors, and organisations, Dan is dedicated to shaping a future where BCP becomes a thriving centre for tech, start-ups, and investment, a place where businesses flourish on the global stage.