2023 Ausmumpreneur Awards Winner – Paige Mcinnes

Paige McInnes is the creative mind behind award-winning children’s brand, Little Change Creators.

As a mum-of-two, Paige started Little Change Creators to entertain her kids when travelling and dining out. Leveraging her skills as a former police artist, designer and art teacher, Paige developed a reusable product that’s loved by kids and parents alike.

Little Change Creators’ colourful and sustainable activity sets spark kindness and creativity in kids while also supporting children’s charities, including Little Dreamers and Ronald McDonald House.

Little Change Creators has received numerous awards for sustainability and product design. You can find its vibrant, eco-friendly range in toy stores and gift shops across Australia.

When did you start your business?

The idea for a portable and sustainable play product first came to mind when I had my babies. However, as a devoted mum juggling two infants, the concept took longer to develop and refine than I’d originally anticipated. Being the perfectionist I am didn’t help either! I eventually commenced trading in 2021 and have been growing the business slowly around homeschooling my children and maintaining some semblance of a social life.

What was the inspiration behind starting this business?

Having children was the catalyst for designing a toy range. As a full-time mum, it was hard to turn a blind eye to the volume of toy clutter and plastics that began to fill my home. I also made it my mission to take my children out every day and so I was always on the lookout for practical and portable playthings – anything to avoid the need for screens!

What are you most excited about in your business?

As Little Change Creators grows and continues to receive awards, we’re gaining more attention from retailers and publications. With new products in the pipeline, I’m excited to see the brand expand and evolve and our social impact increase.

What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?

In the lead up to starting my business, a lack of time was my biggest challenge. I wanted to be a present mum to my children and so I’d put their needs first every time. However, now that I’m trading, a challenge I wasn’t prepared for is ruthless competition. I feel there’s room for many brands and products in the children’s market and competitors don’t need to resort to unscrupulous tactics.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?

For new business owners, my advice is simple: Avoid comparing yourself to others. Building a business can be all-consuming, especially in the early stages. But juggling it all alongside raising a family can make it seem near-impossible!

It’s easy to feel deflated when scrolling through social media and seeing the highlight-reels of well-established brands. Therefore, it’s important to remember that everyone’s journey is different. Some owners have years of experience, extensive family support, or generous financial backing.

That’s why, instead of comparing yourself to others, I recommend new business owners focus on what’s working for their business and the steps they need to take to reach their next milestone. To forge their own path to success, new business owners should learn from setbacks, celebrate their own accomplishments and not let comparisons derail their journey.

Why did you enter the AusMumpreneur Awards?

I entered the AusMumpreneur Awards for a number of reasons. This was an opportunity to receive recognition and validation but also build confidence, celebrate success and support other mums in business.

What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?

Between raising children and the day-to-day demands of running a business, I don’t often pause to reflect on how far I’ve come or the wins I’ve had. Being part of the Ausmumpreneur Awards encouraged me to do just that and to also take inspiration from the many other successful women participating in these awards.

What surprised you most about the awards?

I was surprised by the calibre of candidates from all corners of our country. It’s not easy being a mum in business so I admire these women for their innovation, determination and success.

How did the awards help you in your business?

The awards provided credibility and exposure for my brand, Little Change Creators. I also managed to connect with other award winners whom I may collaborate with in future.

What advice would you give to other mums thinking about entering the awards?

You won’t know what doors could open unless you give the awards a go. You may not win on your first try, but you’ll certainly gain experience and confidence to take you further in business and life.

What has been the best thing about starting your own business?

I’ve always wanted to be a present mum to my kids and, having my own business, gives me the flexibility I need. I can take time out to care for a sick child or attend a school event without begging to a boss.

What’s happening next in your business?

As a creative person, I always have too many ideas for the time I have available! I’ve a couple of projects bubbling away in the background, including a new product I’ve been developing for some time.

What are your big plans for the future?

The future is looking bright and I’m already starting to sew the seeds for a long-term goal that’s years in the making. I won’t reveal too much now – watch this space!