It started with a conversation between two finance students. Fast forward to today, and that shared love of sport and innovation is powering a bold new start-up with global ambition.
TWELVTH, co-founded by Trang Phan and Debtanu Das, is an exciting new platform that’s reimagining the fantasy sports experience. By combining daily fantasy gameplay with virtual stock trading, TWELVTH offers users two distinct ways to engage: Manager Mode, where Twelvth players build fantasy teams, and Investor Mode, where they trade virtual stocks in their favourite athletes. It’s a fresh, tech-forward take on fantasy sports—and one that’s aiming to change the game.
With enhanced control over the outcome, user-friendly features, and a safer alternative to traditional betting, TWELVTH provides sports fans a unique way to monetize their knowledge and passion
From an idea to international vision
Trang and Debtanu first bonded over their shared interests while studying finance at Durham University. “We recognised a gap in the market,” Trang explains, “especially when it came to integrating blockchain technology into the fantasy sports space. We had the skills and the determination—and we knew we had to try.”
Despite still being in the early days, the TWELVTH team is already embracing the rollercoaster of start-up life. “Every day brings a new challenge,” she says. “From product development and building our user base to networking and funding, it’s a steep learning curve. But every challenge we overcome gives us more confidence and belief in our vision.”
Overcoming the hurdles
Like many international students, Trang and Debtanu faced additional pressures. Financial uncertainty, visa implications, and navigating UK business registration as non-citizens added to the complexity. But Trang says she’s not one to back down. “It’s been tough at times,” she admits, “but we’ve had amazing support that’s helped us keep moving forward.”
Why North East England?
Durham has become more than just where TWELVTH began—it’s become home. “The region is incredibly welcoming,” says Trang. “We’ve had support from TEDCO Business Support through Durham Startups, and the Durham City Incubator, and we’ve met some truly fantastic people along the way. With four universities nearby and a growing talent pool, the North East is a brilliant place to build a business.”
Support from TEDCO
One of the key figures in TWELVTH’s journey so far has been Mark Johnston, Trang’s business advisor at TEDCO Business Support. “Mark’s guidance was instrumental,” she says. “He helped us refine our business plan and supported us in securing a grant. The one-to-one advice was clear, tailored, and encouraging—just what we needed.”
As TWELVTH continues to grow, Trang hopes her journey will inspire others to act on their ideas—especially those who might feel uncertain about where to begin. “It’s not easy, but it’s absolutely worth it,” she says. “And if you’ve got the right people supporting you, you’ll be surprised what you can achieve.”
Mark adds “It’s been a real pleasure to support Trang and Debtanu. Their vision for TWELVTH is ambitious, but what really stood out to me was their dedication to doing things properly—from building a solid foundation to thoroughly testing the platform. That level of focus and drive will serve them well as they continue to grow.”
Visit Twelvth12.com to learn more and join the early user list for exclusive access and updates as they build the future of fantasy sports. Read more about their story and explore the Durham Startups.
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Durham Startups (part of Enterprising Durham Framework) is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund until March 2026.
