Sustainable baby equipment rental service receives backing from two Dragons to expand operations and reduce waste of early-years products such as travel cots.
London-based baby equipment rental service, Tiny Explorers, has secured £50,000 investment from Dragons' Den investors Sara Davies and Touker Suleyman, with each Dragon taking a 10 per cent equity stake in the business.
Founded in 2022 by Hayley Hanigan, Tiny Explorers provides rental services for essential baby equipment including strollers, car seats, and travel cots, which are then maintained and cleaned by the company. It has generated over £300,000 in revenue since launch.
Hanigan established the business after experiencing difficulties finding rental options for essential baby equipment during travel. The service allows parents to lease equipment that is only needed for short periods of time, reducing the issues of disposal associated with items such as child car seats, that are made of rigid plastic, metal and fabric, and strongly bonded to withstand high impacts.
Touker Suleyman highlighted the market opportunity: "I have a few investments in the baby and nursery sector, as well as in the short-term property rental market, and see a consistent need for short-term baby equipment rentals for travelling families."
The investment will support the company's expansion plans, including new office and warehouse space, enhanced marketing efforts, and improved customer experience through automated processes.
It will also enable Tiny Explorers to create new job opportunities, particularly focusing on flexible positions for local mothers. The company plans to pursue partnerships with travel brands such as Airbnb to expand its reach to international visitors.
“With this support, I'll be able to expand sustainably, and continue our mission to reduce waste by offering families a convenient rental option instead of buying single-use items,” said Hanigan.
Sara Davies added: “She’s created a real solution for parents who want convenience, flexibility, and an environmentally friendly alternative and I’m excited to work with her to expand Tiny Explorers’ reach and help her navigate any growing pains along the way.”
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