Businesses invited to discover funding opportunities

Local businesses will have the chance to discover new funding opportunities and hear from a Dragons’ Den star when a special event takes place at Accrington Stanley’s Wham Stadium this November.

Hyndburn Council is hosting Funding Unlocked, a free event designed to help businesses understand the wide range of funding and support available at every stage of their journey.

Whether someone is developing a business idea, launching a start up, seeking growth finance or exploring investment opportunities to scale, the event will connect them with organisations that can help turn ambition into reality.

Taking place on Wednesday 4 November from 10am to 12.30pm in the Stadium’s 1968 Lounge, the event will bring together leading funders, business support organisations and industry experts to help local entrepreneurs navigate the often complex world of business finance.

A major highlight of the event will be a guest appearance from award winning entrepreneur Kirsty Henshaw, who secured investment from Peter Jones and Duncan Bannatyne on BBC's Dragons' Den before building a successful national food brand. Kirsty will share her experience of securing investment, growing a business and overcoming the challenges faced by businesses as they scale.

The event will feature a panel discussion chaired by Lancashire Business View publisher Richard Slater, bringing together experts from across the funding landscape.

Panellists include Leon Carroll from The King's Trust, which supports young people aged 18 to 30 looking to start and grow businesses; Martin Emmott from Rosebud Finance; Mark Gibbons from Befund; and Rory Southworth from Fhunded Angels, which connects growing businesses with angel investors and equity investment opportunities. Together they will share insights into the different routes available, from start up support and loans to growth finance and investment.

Together the panel will explore the different funding routes available to businesses, what lenders and investors look for when considering applications, and some of the common reasons why funding requests are unsuccessful.

There will also be practical advice on preparing a strong application, understanding when to approach potential funders and identifying the most appropriate financial support for different stages of business development.

Cllr Munsif Dad, leader of Hyndburn Council, said: “Our local businesses are a vital part of Hyndburn’s economy, and we want to make sure they have every opportunity to succeed. Events like Funding Unlocked are incredibly important because they bring valuable advice, expertise and connections directly to our business community. Whether someone is just starting out or looking to take an established business to the next level, this is a fantastic opportunity to learn, develop and explore new ways to grow.”

Kirsty Henshaw said: “I’m really excited to be coming to Accrington for Funding Unlocked and having the chance to meet other business owners and entrepreneurs. I know from my own experience just how important finding the right funding and support can be, particularly when you’re trying to turn an idea into a successful business. I’m looking forward to sharing some of the lessons I’ve learnt along the way, including the challenges as well as the successes, and hopefully helping others feel more confident about taking that next step.”

As well as hearing from the guest speakers, visitors will have the chance to speak directly with funding providers and business support organisations, explore exhibitor stands and make valuable connections with other local businesses.

With organisations including The King's Trust taking part, the event will also offer younger entrepreneurs and those considering starting their first business an opportunity to discover the financial assistance, mentoring and guidance available to help them get started.

A free buffet lunch will be provided, with time set aside for networking and informal conversations with the organisations attending.

Funding Unlocked is open to businesses of all sizes and stages, from aspiring entrepreneurs and start-ups to established companies looking to expand, invest in new equipment or explore their next growth opportunity.

Attendance is completely free, although advance booking is required. Places can be reserved at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1998544060083