What makes Lincoln's business community special? Polly Fotheringham says it's the independents - people who've built something from scratch, rooted in passion and personality, offering things you simply won't find on the average high street.

When the pandemic sparked a wave of independent ventures, Lincoln-based designer Polly saw an opportunity to connect and celebrate them. Through her business, Raven Design Co., and the launch of The Little Book of Small Businesses, she’s built a platform for local entrepreneurs to promote themselves, collaborate, and grow. Here’s why finding your business community can be the key to thriving - in work and in wellbeing.