Businesses from across Lancashire gathered at Accrington Stanley’s Wham Stadium for a special event bringing together funding experts, business support organisations and one of the UK’s best-known entrepreneurs.
Organised by Hyndburn Borough Council, Funding Unlocked took place on Wednesday in the stadium’s 1968 Lounge, giving business owners the opportunity to explore funding options, gain practical advice and make valuable connections to support their future growth.
The free event featured a keynote speech from Dragons’ Den success story Kirsty Henshaw, alongside an expert panel discussion exploring everything from grants and business loans to private investment and the common challenges businesses face when seeking financial support.
The event was hosted by MC Richard Slater from Lancashire Business View, who led an expert panel discussion featuring Rory Southworth from Fhunded Angels, Mark Gibbons from Befund, Leon Carroll from The King’s Trust, Martin Emmott from Rosebud Finance and Salma Chaudhry, Economic Development Manager at Hyndburn Borough Council.
The panel explored the funding landscape, offering practical guidance on the options available to businesses at different stages of development, what funders look for in a strong application and some of the common reasons funding requests are unsuccessful.
With representatives from different areas of business finance and support, the discussion gave attendees a clearer understanding of the opportunities available, when to approach potential funders and how best to prepare before applying.
A key discussion during the expert panel focused on what makes a business fundable and how businesses can improve their chances of securing grants, loans and investment.
The businesses exhibiting at the event provided strong cases of the qualities funders look for, including industry experience, market knowledge, a clear proposition and realistic growth plans.
One example was exhibitor David Williams of Accrin Mortgages, a start-up grant recipient who demonstrated how professional experience can strengthen a funding application. After more than 15 years working as a mortgage adviser for a major high street bank, David decided to establish his own business following redundancy. His understanding of the market, regulatory requirements and customer base helped create a robust business proposition.
Similarly, Growth grant recipient Manor House Farm showcased how established businesses can successfully diversify. Having already expanded beyond traditional farming by creating a dog walking park, the business secured support to develop an on-site ice cream shop using ingredients produced on the farm.
Cllr Munsif Dad, Leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, said: “What a fantastic event, bringing businesses and experts together to share knowledge, advice and opportunities. The collaboration was brilliant, the discussions were incredibly informative, and it’s exciting to see what this could mean for the future of businesses across Hyndburn and Lancashire.”
Alongside the keynote speech and panel discussion, attendees had the opportunity to speak directly with funding providers and business support organisations, explore exhibitor stands and make new connections over a complimentary buffet lunch.
The involvement of organisations including The King’s Trust also highlighted the support available to younger entrepreneurs and those looking to take their first steps into business.
For more coverage from the event, visit: www.facebook.com/hyndburn
