This free workshop will provide an overview of The South West Investment Fund, a £200 million fund launched by the British Business Bank in July 2023 to help stimulate economic growth across the Region. The Fund provides loans to SMEs from £25,000 to £2 million and equity of £150,000 to £5 million.
We’ll be discussing how raising finance through the fund can unlock growth opportunities for South West businesses. Covering key topics such as eligibility, the application process and what we as fund managers look for from a funding proposal. We’re here to demystify the process and provide support to food and drink businesses explore potential funding opportunities.
Why should businesses attend?
Businesses should attend if they are looking to raise funding in the short to medium term for growth.
We will cover best practice in how to approach raising finance and top tips in becoming investment ready.
Can only SW businesses attend?
No – however this fund is limited to businesses based or having significant operations based in the South West.
Attendees will hear from each of the three fund management businesses:
Nicola Parker from SWIG Finance (provision of debt up to £100,000)
Nicola joined SWIG Finance in 2019 as a Business Manager. In 2021, she was promoted to Senior Business Manager and leads our busy Business Loans team. Nic has more than 20 years of experience working in financial services and has previously worked for Triodos, The Co-Operative Bank and Blaise Commercial Finance.
Jordan Berg from FW Capital (provision of debt from £100,000 to £2 million)
Jordan joined FW Capital as it opened it’s South West office in June 2023. Working as an investment executive, Jordan works alongside businesses applying for funding through the South West Investment Fund. Prior to this Jordan has worked as a business manager and in business development roles at SWIG finance, Insider and Barclays Bank.
Melanie Goward from Maven Capital Partners (Provision of equity from £150,000 to £5 million)
Melanie joined Maven in September 2016 and manages the team transacting new early-stage and technology growth capital investments across the South of the UK. She leads on investment of the SW Investment Fund for Maven. With over 20 years’ experience as a specialist in early-stage investment, Melanie has completed a range of investments in technology, life science and biotechnology businesses.