A business support initiative set up to help Lancashire SMEs increase their chances of securing investment has been officially launched by the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).
More than 100 businesses, industry professionals and investors met for the launch of the University’s Investment Readiness programme at the Brockholes Conference Centre.
The programme will enable businesses to access the expertise of experienced investment directors and managers, who will provide a unique insight into what investors look for.
Part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), the scheme is free to eligible Lancashire businesses.
Completion of the programme will result in participants being equipped to deliver a pitch to investors in the hope of securing funding for their business.
The launch was hosted by UCLan in partnership with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and BusinessCloud.
Expert speakers, including Dave Furlong, Investment Director from Maven Capital Partners Robert Sheffrin, Investment Director from UCLan Ventures, Martin Leeming, CEO of Trak Rap, Darrin Robinson, CEO of Beaconfell and Gillian Bardin, President of the ICAEW Lancashire and South Lakes formed panels to discuss the steps required to achieve business growth through venture capital investment.
Peter Leather, Programme Director, said: “The fact that the Investment Readiness programme is ‘investor led’ sets it apart from similar initiatives. It has been developed by experts with many years of experience, with the aim of providing businesses with a unique insight into how to strengthen their potential for receiving investment.
“Funding is such a significant factor for facilitating growth, and we want to help businesses give themselves the best possible chance.”
