Businesses pitch for £780k angel investment

Five entrepreneurs pitched their business ideas to a panel of corporate investors at a ‘Dragons Den’ style event organised by North West Business Angels and held in Lancashire.

Held at the Mercure Dunkenhalgh Blackburn Hotel, the event was attended by dozens of angel investors and saw a line-up of five budding investees from across the North West pitch for investment between £80k and £350k in return for an equity stake in their business.

The founder of the online retail store, Calla, which develops specialist heels for ladies who suffer from bunions, was pitching for £100k investment to further expand the business through marketing, product development and recruitment.

The event was also joined by keynote speaker, Gareth Gibson, business development manager at Yingde Group which facilitates cooperation between Chinese investors and various groups within the UK business sector that are looking for funding.

“We saw a great shortlist of businesses which all demonstrated possibility for rapid growth, an experienced management team and a viable business plan that has the potential for long-term expansion in a growing market. Whilst funding from banks is not an option for them for one reason or another, angel investors are willing to take more chances and not only provide investment but offer mentorship and guidance which ultimately generates value for both parties.” Businesses and investors can apply to take part in the next event, which will take place at the end of the year, by emailing David Roberts at david@mbsca.uk.com