At Tree Shepherd, we love championing the bold, the innovative, and the community-minded. This month, we’re shining the spotlight on Deborah Millington—an award-winning advocate for small businesses and founder of RedBorder Ltd. With over two decades of experience supporting micro and underrepresented entrepreneurs, Deborah’s mission is rooted in legacy, innovation, and collective empowerment.

Let’s Start with You!

Tell us a little about yourself.
 I’m Deborah Millington, founder of RedBorder Ltd. I’ve spent more than 20 years working in economic development and business support, helping micro and small businesses grow—especially those from underrepresented communities. My background spans work with London & Partners, local authorities, and grassroots initiatives, and I’ve received several awards for my contributions to enterprise and local economies. I’m passionate about building ethical, sustainable businesses that give back.

About Your Business

What inspired you to start your business?
 I was inspired by my grandmother in Guyana, who used her skills and home to support her local economy. That deep sense of community exchange and empowerment never left me. It’s why I focus so much on ethical entrepreneurship.

What do you love most about your work?
 Seeing people build something that benefits their family and their community—it’s incredibly rewarding. I love coming up with practical solutions that help everyday entrepreneurs take action and succeed on their own terms.

Your Journey with Tree Shepherd

How did you first get involved with Tree Shepherd?
 I connected with Tree Shepherd through local enterprise networks. Their work always stood out to me, especially their grassroots approach to supporting entrepreneurs.

What kind of support have you received?
 I recently took part in their lead generation workshop. It was full of practical advice and gave me the confidence to refine my customer acquisition strategy.

Has it made a difference?
 Absolutely. The workshop gave me immediate takeaways I could implement straight away. It also reaffirmed that I’m heading in the right direction—and doing so with clarity and purpose.

Celebrating Your Wins

What’s a recent achievement you’re proud of?
 Getting Clicks-2-Mortar ready for its pilot launch! I really believe it’s a scalable, community-focused solution that can breathe new life into high streets.

How did that feel?
 Energising. It reminded me of why I do what I do—it’s about impact, legacy, and belief in community-led solutions.

Did Tree Shepherd play a part in this?
 Yes—having access to their workshops at this stage of my business was timely and motivating.

Looking Ahead

What are your hopes for RedBorder and your wider mission?
 I’d love to see Clicks-2-Mortar rolled out across London and beyond, proving that sustainable, values-led business models can scale. I also want to strengthen ties between Black and global majority-owned businesses across the diaspora.

How can Tree Shepherd help?
 By continuing to provide access to collaborative spaces, networks, and opportunities that help mission-led businesses grow.

Words of Advice

What would you say to someone thinking about starting their own business?
 Start with what you have—don’t wait for perfect conditions. Lead with your values, test your ideas, and surround yourself with people who share your vision. Your community is a powerful asset.

Would you recommend Tree Shepherd?
 100%. They offer grounded, community-based support that actually works. Their approach is practical, inclusive, and rooted in real-world challenges and opportunities.

Final Thoughts & Shout-Outs

Anything else you’d like to share?
 Building a business can be tough, but it’s also deeply fulfilling. RedBorder is still evolving, and I’m excited about the future. I’m grateful for the people and places that support me on this journey.

Where can we find out more about you?
 🌐 www.redborder.co.uk
🔗 Deborah Millington on LinkedIn